If you have ever had a clogged drain, you know how frustrating it can be. Clogged drains will cause water to back up and overflow. This leaves you with a mess to clean up.
Fortunately, there is an easy DIY way to tackle a clogged drain, Where you may not need to call in a professional plumber — using a plumber’s snake. If you want to know how to use a plumbers snake, read this blog. We have discussed everything you need to know. And you can get your plumbing system running smoothly again.
What is a Plumber’s Snake?
A plumber’s snake is a long, flexible wire or cable with a cutting head at the end used to clear blockages in drains. It’s also known as a ‘drain snake’ or an ‘auger.’
The most common type of drain snake is a hand-cranked auger with a plastic handle and a steel shaft. The shaft is usually between 10 and 25 feet in length. It has a curved end designed to penetrate clogs and break them up. In addition, some snakes come with specialized blades for cutting through more stubborn blockages.
Drain snakes are an effective way to clear blockages without damaging pipes or other plumbing fixtures. To use a drain snake, use gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any potential hazards. If your sink has a sink strainer installed, you may need to unscrew it first.
The Plumber’s Snake, also known as a Plumber Snake or Snake Plumber tool, is a real lifesaver when bog-standard plungers or chemical solutions aren’t up to the task. Depending on the size of the blockage and the pipe’s diameter, different sizes of drain snakes may be needed. It’s crucial to pick the right snake for the job to avoid damaging the pipe or making the clog worse.
Using a drain snake takes a bit of know-how and patience. The snake should be inserted gently into the drain until the clog is reached. Then, the handle needs to be turned clockwise to drive the cutting head into the blockage. Keep turning until you feel resistance, indicating the snake is breaking up the clog or hooking onto it. The next step is to retract the snake, pulling the debris out with it. This process may need to be repeated several times to fully clear stubborn blockages. After use, it’s essential to give the drain snake an excellent clean and disinfectant to keep it ready for future jobs.
Once you are ready, follow our step-by-step guide below:
Plumber’s Snake Step-By-Step Guide
We know that clearing a clogged drain can be frustrating and time-consuming. But, it doesn’t have to be. Using a plumber’s snake is the most efficient way to unclog your drain.
Here is our recommended guide to unclogging the drain like a professional:
Step 1: Insert the Snake Into the Drain
The snake is a long metal cable with a corkscrew-like head designed to break up and remove clogs. One of the first steps to unclog a drain with a plumber’s snake is to insert the snake into the drain. To do this:
· Find the opening of the clogged drain and hold the end of the snake with one hand.
· With your other hand, pull back on the snake’s handle.
· Insert the snake tip into the drain as far as possible until it reaches the blockage.
When inserting the snake, be sure to go slow and not force it into the drain. Also, if you’re using a manual snake, ensure you have the right angle. So it will easily fit through the pipes.
Suppose you’re using an electric snake; make sure to turn off any power before inserting it into the drain. Once you’ve inserted the snake into the drain, you’ll be ready to move on to step two.
Step 2: Push Until You Feel Drain Blockage
When you feel the blockage, push down on the snake handle and start turning it clockwise. This will help you break up the clog to remove it more easily.
If you feel resistance or the snake isn’t moving, push down harder on the handle and continue turning.
Step 3: Attack the Blockage by Rotating the Snake
Once you have broken up the clog, continue rotating the snake in a clockwise motion. This will help you get rid of any stubborn bits that are still lodged in the pipes. Make sure to use short, controlled motions while rotating the snake.
Step 4: Complete the Drainage Process
Once you have broken up the clog and cleared any debris, slowly pull out the snake. Run hot water through the pipes to ensure that all clogs are removed. This will help flush out any remaining clogged pieces and ensure your drain is completely clear.
Dump the nasty drain blockage debris into a bin or bucket. Clean the auger end and store it properly.
Repeat the process every time there is a blockage in your drain.
Final Thoughts
Clearing a clogged drain can be arduous. However, you can do it quickly and efficiently with a plumber’s snake. The snake is designed to break up tough clogs and ensure your drains run smoothly.
Learning how to use a drain snake to unclog your drain could save you money. It is one of the DIY you must know as a homeowner. It is a simple yet effective method to clear drain blockages. Just follow these steps carefully. Also, take your time while working with the snake to ensure your pipes are not damaged.
If you don’t have time or struggling to resolve a complex blockage, seek professional help. You need experienced and excellence-driven plumbers. They will reward you with golden standard services.
At My Home Plumbing, we are a reliable and customer-friendly plumbing service partner. We are updated with the latest technology and products available in the market. Our team offers different plumbing services, including clearing drains, gas plumbing, roof repairs, hot water installations, and more. One Call, Solves All.
