Plumbing issues can be stressful, especially when you’re not sure who to call. Should you hire a plumber or a rooter? While both deal with water systems, their areas of expertise are different. Understanding these differences will help you avoid unnecessary costs, delays, and future damage to your property.
In this guide, we’ll clearly explain what a rooter does versus what a plumber does, outline when to call each one, and help you make the right decision based on your situation. Whether it’s a clogged drain or a leaky water heater, knowing who to call can make all the difference.
Understanding the Basics
What is a Plumber?
A plumber is a licensed professional trained to install, maintain, and repair water systems in homes, businesses, and industrial buildings. Their work extends far beyond fixing leaky faucets—they are essential for maintaining the infrastructure of your water supply and drainage systems.
Common Plumbing Services Include:
- Repairing leaky or burst pipes
- Installing and repairing toilets, faucets, and sinks
- Replacing or repairing water heaters
- Installing water filtration systems
- Fixing water pressure issues
- Re-piping or upgrading old plumbing systems
- Assisting with bathroom and kitchen remodeling
Plumbers are highly skilled professionals who often require licensing and certification to ensure they follow local building codes and regulations.
What is a Rooter?
The term “rooter” comes from the original practice of using mechanical tools to remove tree roots that had invaded underground sewer lines. Over time, the word became synonymous with professionals who specialize in clearing blocked drains and sewer lines.
A rooter typically uses specialized equipment such as motorized drain snakes, hydro jetters, and sewer inspection cameras to diagnose and clear blockages.
Common Rooter Services Include:
- Drain unclogging
- Clearing tree roots from sewer lines
- Sewer and storm line cleaning
- Camera inspections of sewer pipes
- Emergency backup and flood prevention
- High-pressure water jet cleaning
Rooters focus mainly on drain and sewer problems rather than the broader scope of water system issues that plumbers handle.
Key Differences Between a Rooter and a Plumber
Though both rooters and plumbers work in the same general field, they offer different services and come equipped with different tools.
Scope of Work
Plumbers handle all aspects of plumbing systems, including clean water supply, waste removal, and gas lines. They are ideal for installations, upgrades, leak repairs, and full plumbing remodels.
Rooters specialize in cleaning, unclogging, and maintaining sewer and drain lines. They do not typically install new plumbing systems or fixtures.
Tools and Equipment
Plumbers use hand tools like pipe wrenches, torches, cutters, and pressure gauges.
Rooters use more specialized machinery, including power augers, root-cutting machines, hydro jetters, and video inspection equipment.
Licensing and Training
Plumbers are generally required to be licensed by the state or local government.
Rooter technicians may not always need a plumbing license, depending on their service focus and regional regulations. However, companies that offer both services often ensure all technicians meet licensing standards.
When to Call a Rooter vs When to Call a Plumber
Not sure who to call? Here’s a breakdown of common plumbing problems and who is best equipped to handle them.
When to Call a Rooter
- Recurring drain clogs in sinks, showers, or bathtubs
- Water backing up in multiple drains
- Sewer line issues, such as slow drainage or overflow in basement drains
- Bad smells coming from drains, indicating sewer gas or buildup
- Noises like gurgling or bubbling when flushing the toilet or draining sinks
- Suspected tree root intrusion in outdoor sewer pipes
Rooters are ideal when you need fast, effective cleaning of your drainage system.
When to Call a Plumber
- Leaky or burst pipes causing water damage
- Low water pressure in multiple parts of your home
- Hot water problems like water not heating or heater malfunctions
- Toilet installation or replacement
- Major upgrades like repiping or bathroom remodeling
- Gas line installation or repairs (requires a licensed plumber)
Plumbers handle more complex, system-wide water issues and perform repairs or installations that involve your property’s infrastructure.
Can a Plumber Do Rooter Work?
In many cases, yes. Many full-service plumbing companies employ professionals who are skilled in both traditional plumbing and rooter services. These technicians often undergo specialized training and carry the tools necessary for both tasks.
However, not all rooters are trained or licensed to do plumbing work. If your issue turns out to be more than a simple blockage, and you’re working with a dedicated rooter who isn’t a licensed plumber, you may end up needing to hire an additional professional.
For convenience and cost savings, it’s smart to hire a company that offers both services.
Cost Comparison: Rooter vs Plumber
The cost of hiring a rooter or plumber depends on the type of issue, the urgency of the situation, and the time and materials required for the repair.
Average Cost Estimates:
- Rooter services (drain cleaning): $100 – $300
- Hydro jetting (high-pressure cleaning): $300 – $600
- Plumber services (leak repair, fixture installation): $150 – $500+
- Emergency plumbing services: Additional charges may apply for after-hours work
Always ask for a detailed estimate before work begins, and verify whether the service call fee is included in the total cost.
How to Choose the Right Professional
Choosing the right technician means doing a little homework up front to avoid bigger problems down the road.
Tips for Choosing a Rooter or Plumber:
- Check licenses and certifications
- Look at customer reviews and testimonials
- Ask about work guarantees or warranties
- Ensure they carry liability insurance
- Confirm availability for emergency services
Rooter vs Plumber: A Quick Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Rooter | Plumber |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Drain and sewer line cleaning | Full plumbing systems |
| Tools Used | Augers, hydro jetters, cameras | Pipe wrenches, soldering tools, gauges |
| Licensing Required | Not always | Usually required |
| Services | Clog removal, root cutting, inspections | Leaks, installations, remodels |
| Emergency Services | Often available | Often available |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a rooter the same as a plumber?
Not exactly. A rooter focuses on drain and sewer line cleaning, while a plumber handles the entire plumbing system, including water supply and fixtures.
What does a rooter do that a plumber doesn’t?
Rooters use specialized tools to clear blockages deep inside sewer lines and often deal with root-related clogs and sewer backups.
Can a rooter fix a leaking pipe?
Usually not. A leaking pipe is typically a job for a licensed plumber, who can ensure the repair is up to code.
Which service is more expensive?
It depends on the job. Rooter services like drain cleaning are often less expensive than major plumbing work. However, advanced rooter services like hydro jetting can cost more.
How can I tell if I need a rooter or plumber?
If it’s a single slow drain or backup, start with a rooter. If the issue involves water pressure, hot water, or multiple fixtures, you’re likely better off with a plumber.
Conclusion: Call Dan Wood Services for Expert Plumbing and Drain Solutions
At Dan Wood Services, we understand how confusing it can be to figure out whether you need a rooter or a plumber. That’s why we offer both services under one roof, providing comprehensive solutions for everything from minor drain clogs to full plumbing system repairs.
As a trusted plumbing provider serving Southwest Michigan for over a century, we’re proud to bring experience, integrity, and professionalism to every job. Whether you’re dealing with a clogged sewer line, low water pressure, or an emergency leak, our licensed technicians are here to help—24/7.
We don’t believe in guesswork—only clear answers and quality work. If you’re unsure what kind of service you need, give us a call, and we’ll help you figure it out fast.
Contact Dan Wood Services today to schedule your plumbing or drain cleaning service. We’ll make sure it’s done right the first time.