The term “rooter service” comes from the problem this service is meant to address: tree root invasions blocking sewer or plumbing lines. While the original design for the rooter machine is no longer used, its conception has led to several effective drain cleaning tools and techniques still in use today.

A plumbing rooter is a tool that clears blockages and clogs in drain and sewer pipes. The term “rooter” comes from the original tool used to clear these blockages: a long, flexible cable with a cutting head or auger on the end. The tool was inserted into the pipe and then turned to break up or remove the blockage.