Bob Oates and general manager John Peterson posing with Poopy the Plunger mascot in front of Bob Oates service vans

Toilet Talk with Bob!

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CALL (206) 789-4944

Serving the Greater Seattle Area

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Bob Oates shares his years of expertise with you!

Bob has been in the plumbing, drain cleaning, and sewer and rooter game for decades. In these fun, useful self-help videos, Bob shares his wisdom on how to solve common plumbing issues — and, importantly, how to prevent them in the first place.

As you scroll through and watch, you'll learn what to do, what not to do, how to save some money by avoiding a service call, and have a few laughs along the way. Enjoy!

Toilet Talk With Bob | Plunging 101

Toilet Talk With Bob | Toilet Paper Troubles

Toilet Talk with Bob | Meet The Drain Thingy

Toilet Talk With Bob | Tree Roots

Toilet Talk With Bob | Disposal Tips

Toilet Talk With Bob | Winter Pipes

Toilet Talk With Bob | Washing Machine Tips

About the Team at Bob Oates

For more than 30 years, Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter has been Seattle’s trusted choice for complete plumbing, sewer repair, and drain cleaning services.

We’re proud to live by our core values — Integrity (“The Pride’s Inside”), Teamwork (“Together, We Achieve Success”), and Commitment to Excellence (“Dedicated to Our Customers, Our Employees, and the Future”).

With continuous training, advanced tech, and a focus on doing the job right the first time, our skilled technicians deliver fast, reliable service backed by the best warranties in the business.

Whether it’s a quick fix or a major project, you can count on Bob Oates to set the standard for exceptional service. Call or book online today and experience a true home-run service for yourself!

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"Nothing but great experiences with Bob Oates! Would highly recommend for all your sewer and plumbing needs! Honest, hard working company!"

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Important Questions to Ask Your Drain Cleaning Company

By Bob Oates | July 6, 2026

You can never go wrong with hiring professionals for any job, especially when it comes to drain cleaning. If you’re considering hiring professionals to clean your drains, there are a few questions that you should always ask before hiring a drain cleaning company. Our team here at Bob Oates Sewer & Rooter is proud to…

Bob Oates plumbing team after completing a successful sewer service job

Is Pipe Lining a Long-Term Answer to Sewer Damage?

By Bob Oates | June 24, 2026

When homeowners learn about trenchless sewer repair, one of the first questions they often ask is whether sewer pipe lining is truly a long-term solution or simply a temporary fix. Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter is here with the answer: Modern sewer pipe lining provides results that are comparable to traditional sewer replacement while…

Bob Oates van and equipment at residential sewer job, Bellevue, WA

Why We Often Recommend Trenchless Sewer Repair

By Bob Oates | June 23, 2026

A damaged sewer line can quickly become one of the most disruptive problems a homeowner faces. Recurring drain backups, sewer odors, slow drains, and soggy areas in the yard may all indicate an issue beneath the surface. Traditionally, repairing a sewer line often meant extensive excavation across lawns, driveways, patios, and landscaping. Today, modern trenchless…

Large, stacked sewer pipes

When’s the Best Time for A Sewer Pipe Relining?

By Bob Oates | June 21, 2026 |

A damaged sewer line rarely fixes itself. In fact, most sewer problems gradually worsen over time, eventually leading to recurring drain backups, foul odors, slow drains, and expensive repairs. Many Seattle homeowners ask whether there is a “best” time of year to schedule sewer pipe relining. The short answer is simple: the best time for…

Close-up of a cracked plumbing pipe damaged by corrosion and wear

4 Main Causes of Cracked Sewer Pipes

By Bob Oates | June 19, 2026 |

Cracked sewer pipes are a common cause of recurring drain backups, slow drains, sewer odors, and unexpected plumbing repairs. While modern sewer lines are designed to last for decades, age, environmental conditions, tree roots, and installation issues can all contribute to pipe damage over time. Fortunately, a professional sewer camera inspection can often identify a…

Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter Pipe Lining Division trailer with Poopy the Plunger mascot in Seattle

Cost-Effective Advantages of Trenchless Pipe Lining

By Bob Oates | June 18, 2026 |

When a sewer line begins to crack, leak, separate, or become blocked by tree roots, many homeowners assume a major excavation project is unavoidable. Fortunately, modern trenchless sewer pipe repair methods often provide a faster and more cost-effective solution. At Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter, we help Seattle-area homeowners restore damaged sewer lines using…

Bob Oates crew finishing a trenchless sewer cleanout and cured-in-place-pipe lining installation.

Why Trenchless Sewer Repairs Are Affordable, No-Dig Solutions For Seattle Homeowners

By Bob Oates | June 16, 2026 |

When a sewer line needs attention, many homeowners immediately picture torn-up yards, broken concrete, and weeks of disruption. Fortunately, modern trenchless sewer repair technology makes that scene a thing of the past. At Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter, we specialize in no-dig solutions that fix your pipes quickly, efficiently, and with far less mess…

Vertical, rusty burst pipe spraying water horizontally

4 Steps to Take When a Pipe Bursts

By Bob Oates | June 15, 2026 |

A burst pipe can quickly cause water damage to walls, flooring, furniture, and personal belongings. Whether the break is caused by freezing temperatures, corrosion, age, or accidental damage, acting quickly can help limit repairs and protect your home. At Bob Oates Sewer and Rooter, we’re proud to serve our community, and eager to pass along DIY…

Bob Oates technician holding tree roots removed from a residential sewer line

6 Benefits of Water Jetting for Seattle Homeowners

By Bob Oates | June 8, 2026 |

Hydro jetting, also called high-pressure water jetting, is one of the most effective methods available for cleaning clogged drain and sewer lines. Unlike traditional drain snaking, which often creates a small opening through a blockage, hydro jetting uses a controlled stream of high-pressure water to remove buildup throughout the entire pipe. At Bob Oates, hydro…

Bob Oates and general manager John Peterson posing with Poopy the Plunger mascot in front of Bob Oates service vans

Spring Plumbing Checklist: 6 Ways to Get Your Home Ready for Warmer Weather

By Bob Oates | June 1, 2026 |

Spring is a popular time for home maintenance in the Seattle area. As temperatures rise and homeowners spend more time outdoors, it’s also a good opportunity to check on the plumbing system that worked hard through the winter months. A few simple inspections can help identify small issues before they turn into larger repairs. Whether…

Washington State favicon with star for Seattle

CALL (206) 789-4944

Serving the Greater Seattle Area

Book Appointment Online
Cal Raleigh, “Big Dumper,” holding a bat alongside Bob Oates Plumbing mascots Poopy the Plunger and friends, with the Seattle skyline in the background.
Cal Raleigh, “Big Dumper,” holding a bat alongside Bob Oates Plumbing mascots Poopy the Plunger and friends, with the Seattle skyline in the background.