What Is a Rooter Service, and Why Do You Need One in Winnipeg?

Property owners in Winnipeg are familiar with many of the common plumbing issues that often strike without warning, from clogged drains to major problems caused by root intrusion.

Professional plumbing involves rooter service to address these problems.

But what is rooter service, exactly? Most property owners have heard the term, but many do not know much about the details of the process.

In the following discussion, King's Services, the provider of the best rooter services in Winnipeg, MB, explores the essentials of this plumbing solution and when you may need this type of work.

Understanding Rooter Service

Rooter service is a specialized plumbing solution originally developed to handle tree roots that invade underground pipes, causing serious blockages — hence the "rooter" name.

The process in modern times has evolved to cover any plumbing service that works to clear pipes of blockages, including clogs, debris, and tree roots. The process now involves multiple professional tools, including hydro-jetting and industrial-grade drain snakes, to restore optimal function.

Professional rooter service specifically tackles these common plumbing problems: 

• Clogged drains caused by hair, grease, and soap scum
• Root intrusion in underground pipes
• Slow drains and sewage backups
• Drainage issues that affect multiple fixtures in your home at the same time

How Rooter Service Works: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

What is rooter service? When you call a professional plumber for rooter service, the process begins with a thorough assessment of your plumbing system. Here's how the process typically unfolds, from the initial inspection to the successful clearing of the blockage:

Initial Assessment

A plumber often uses a camera inspection tool, which involves feeding a small, waterproof camera into your pipes to visually inspect the blockage. This allows the plumber to determine the exact location and type of obstruction. Remote video inspections are crucial for spotting hard-to-reach issues and selecting the proper tools for the job.

Choosing the Right Tools

Once the plumber identifies the issue, they’ll choose the appropriate tool to clear the blockage:

Drain Snakes and Augers 

For many clogged drains and minor obstructions, a drain snake or auger is the go-to tool. The plumber inserts a flexible metal cable into the pipe and rotates it, breaking up the blockage. These tools are often effective on softer clogs made of grease, soap, or hair and can sometimes pull debris out of a pipe entirely.

Hydro-Jetting

For more difficult situations, like a large accumulation of debris or root intrusion, the plumber may use hydro-jetting. This technique involves using a professional tool to blast highly pressurized water — up to 4,000 PSI — into the pipe to dislodge and clear away all buildup. 

Hydro-jetting is a useful tool because it not only removes the clog but also cleans pipe walls, helping to prevent future buildup.

Mechanical Root Cutting 

For more extensive root intrusions, plumbers often use mechanical root cutters. These tools have rotating blades attached to a motorized cable that slices through roots growing inside the pipes. After cutting, the plumber flushes away debris to allow restored water flow. 

Flushing and Testing

After cleaning obstructions, the plumber will flush the system with water to ensure the removal of blockages. Sometimes, they will perform a follow-up video inspection if the situation warrants it. 

Post-Rooter Service Recommendations

After finishing the work, the plumber may recommend additional maintenance to prevent clogs. If tree roots are a recurring issue, they might suggest root barriers or ongoing chemical treatments to prevent further root intrusion.

How To Know You Might Need Rooter Service in Winnipeg

Now that we've addressed the question, "What is rooter service?" how do you know if you need it? 



Here are a few common signs that it’s time to call a Winnipeg professional to assess your plumbing system.

Slow Drains

If you have sinks, showers, or tubs that are draining slowly or not at all, you have a clogged drain that needs remediation. If you have tried unclogging drains only to have them rapidly begin to drain slowly again, there is likely a deeper plumbing obstruction. 

Gurgling Sounds

If you hear gurgling or bubbling noises coming from drains or toilets as you run water, there could be blockages or trapped air deeper in your plumbing system. 

Foul Odours

The unpleasant smell of rotten eggs coming from drains is the classic sign of clogged organic matter decomposing inside your pipes or even a backflow of hazardous sewer gas. 

Backups and Overflows

If water backs up into sinks or tubs when you flush a toilet, it is a clear indication of a substantial blockage somewhere inside your plumbing system.

Visible Water Damage

If you notice damp areas or pooling water in your yard when there hasn't been any rain, rooter service addresses root intrusion or other subsurface disturbances of water supply or sewage lines. 

What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Rooter Service?

Rooter service offers several key benefits that are essential for maintaining a healthy plumbing system, including:

• Prevents blockages: Professional rooting tools, especially hydro-jetting equipment, help clean the inside of plumbing systems in addition to removing blockages. This cleaning helps pipes to resist the buildup of minerals, debris, and waste. 
• Removes tree roots: Rooter service that eliminates root intrusion provides immediate relief from the intense pressure of tree growth — giving you time to take preventative measures like blocking root growth or removing problem trees. 
• Avoids emergencies: Clearing pipes effectively helps minimize the risk of severe problems with frozen or cracked pipes that require much more extensive repairs. 
• Extends plumbing life: Keeping your pipes clean and clear extends the useful service life of your plumbing system and reduces the risk of future repair costs. 

Choose King's Services for Comprehensive Plumbing and Rooter Service in Winnipeg, MB

King’s Services takes pride in our commitment to quality, honesty, and customer satisfaction. 

What is rooter service? Whether you're dealing with a stubborn clog or trying to prevent root intrusion or emergency plumbing situations, rooter service is a crucial tool in maintaining the health and longevity of your plumbing system. 

Contact King's Services to discuss your plumbing needs and schedule rooter service with our expert team in Winnipeg.