Roto-Rooter Marks 90 Years of Reliable Plumbing Solutions and Innovation

Celebrating 90 Years of Roto-Rooter

Roto-Rooter, a household name in plumbing repair and water cleanup, proudly marks its 90th anniversary in 2025. Established in 1935, the company has grown from a humble startup to the largest provider of its kind in North America, consistently recognized for its innovative approaches and reliable solutions.

The Birth of an Icon

The story begins with Samuel Blanc, an inventive spirit hailing from Des Moines, Iowa, who transformed the plumbing landscape with his groundbreaking Roto-Rooter machine. What started as a casual solution using the motor of his wife's washing machine became a revolutionary tool that efficiently tackled common plumbing issues, such as tree roots invading sewer lines without the need for laborious digging. This innovative technology not only paved the way for the creation of Roto-Rooter Corporation but fundamentally changed how plumbing services are approached.

Operations Headquarters

At the heart of Roto-Rooter’s operations lies its corporate headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, complemented by a dedicated manufacturing facility in West Des Moines, Iowa. The Cincinnati office serves as the command center for strategic and administrative functions, while the West Des Moines plant is responsible for producing the company’s essential sewer and drain cleaning machines, cables, and blades. These facilities play a vital role in ensuring that every Roto-Rooter product upholds the high quality and reliability that customers have trusted for decades.

A Strong Network

Roto-Rooter's exceptional success is largely due to its vast network, comprising 121 company-owned branches and numerous independent contractor locations, alongside 348 independent franchises. This extensive reach allows Roto-Rooter to offer expert plumbing services to over a million customers each year, ensuring both prompt assistance and professional care are always available. With a workforce of around 6,000 dedicated employees, the company proudly caters to both residential and commercial clients across North America.

Reflections from Leadership

Spencer Lee, the current CEO of Roto-Rooter, expressed pride in the company’s 90-year journey. “Achieving this milestone showcases the commitment and dedication of our employees throughout these nine decades. We cherish our history and eagerly anticipate what lies ahead,” he stated. This sentiment underscores the company’s deep connection to its roots while looking forward to future innovations.

The Power of Advertising

One of Roto-Rooter’s most memorable aspects is its iconic advertising jingle, which has been a staple in the company’s marketing since its inception. The catchy phrase, “Call Roto-Rooter, that's the name, and away go troubles down the drain,” has resonated with customers for over 70 years, creating a lasting legacy that transcends generations. This unique branding element has significantly contributed to making Roto-Rooter synonymous with plumbing solutions.

A Comprehensive Service Network

As a subsidiary of Chemed Corporation, Roto-Rooter provides essential plumbing repair and water cleanup services to both homeowners and businesses alike. The company’s expansive service network connects with more than 90% of the U.S. population and nearly 40% of Canadians, exemplifying its integral role within the North American infrastructure.

For additional information on Roto-Rooter and the full range of its services, kindly visit www.rotorooter.com. With its impressive history and ongoing commitment to quality service, Roto-Rooter continues to be a leader in the industry, ready to tackle any plumbing challenges for the next 90 years and beyond.