A plumbing snake, also known as an auger or drain snake, is an essential tool for clearing clogged drains and pipes. Using a plumbing snake properly allows you to remove obstructions and get your water flowing again without calling a plumber. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a plumbing snake to unclog drains.
Assembling the Plumbing Snake
Before inserting the plumbing snake down the drain, you need to assemble it properly. Here are the key steps:
- Select a plumbing snake that is long enough to reach the clog. For sink drains, a 3-6 foot snake is usually sufficient, while tub drains often require 25-30 foot snakes.
- Attach the handle to the coil to give you control as you twist the snake down the pipe. Make sure it is firmly fixed.
- If your plumbing snake came in sections, connect them together one by one until you have the desired length. Twist to lock the sections in place.
- Check that the end of the coil is firmly attached to the tip of the snake so it does not come loose inside the pipe.
Preparing the Drain
Taking a few steps before inserting the plumbing snake will help make the process easier:
- Remove any drain screens or stoppers so you can access the drain pipe. This gives the snake a clear path.
- Have a bucket ready to catch any water or debris that comes up when snaking the drain. You’ll want to minimize any mess.
- Consider using a drain cover to help grip the snake and guide it into the pipe. This is especially useful for smaller sinks or tub drains.
- Flush the drain with hot water if there is any standing water. This helps loosen debris before snaking.
Inserting and Operating the Plumbing Snake
With your snake assembled and drain access cleared, you can now work on removing the clog:
- Feed the plumbing snake into the drain opening slowly and gently. Don’t force it.
- When you encounter resistance, turn the handle clockwise while applying light downward pressure. This advances the snake through the obstruction.
- If the snake gets tangled or stuck, turn the handle counterclockwise to free it up before continuing. Go slow.
- Keep feeding more of the plumbing snake into the drain as needed until you feel the clog has been dislodged.
- Finally, turn the handle counter clockwise as you slowly extract the snake from the pipe. Go slow to avoid leaving any debris behind.
- Run hot water down the drain after removing the snake to flush away any loosened gunk.
Helpful Tips and Warnings
Here are some additional pointers to keep in mind when using a plumbing snake:
- Never use a plumbing snake in a toilet as it can damage the wax ring seal – call a plumber instead.
- Minimize your use of drain cleaners before snaking as they can corrode pipes and make removal tricky.
- If you encounter a lot of resistance and cannot get past it, the clog may be further down the line or in the main sewer drain. Call a professional.
- Lubricating the snake with cooking oil or spray lubricant can help it glide smoothly and avoid getting tangled.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from gunk, and eye protection if splashing is likely.
- Make sure to thoroughly wash your hands after using a drain snake.
With some care and patience, a plumbing snake can effectively clear out many common clogged drain issues. But don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber if problems persist. Knowing how to properly use this inexpensive tool will save you money on plumbing bills.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Plumbing Snakes
How do I know what size plumbing snake to use?
The size of your plumbing snake should match the diameter of the pipe you are clearing. For most sink and tub drains 2-2.5 cm (3/4 – 1 inch) is ideal. Measure the drain opening before purchasing a snake to ensure the right fit.
When should I avoid using a plumbing snake?
Do not use a plumbing snake in toilets as this can damage the wax seal. Also avoid electric powered snakes in ceramic tile – the torque can crack tiles. Call a pro instead.
What can I do if my plumbing snake gets stuck?
First, try rotating the handle counterclockwise to release the tangled snake. If that doesn’t work, push the snake forward and backward gently to free it up. Lubricant can also help loosen a stuck snake.
How can I avoid damaging pipes when using a plumbing snake?
Always feed and rotate the snake gently, never force it. Lubricant also helps the snake glide smoothly without catching on pipe joints. Inspect pipes afterwards for any cracks or leaks just in case.
What should I do if snaking the drain doesn’t work?
If you are unable to dislodge the clog with a plumbing snake, it likely needs a professional hydro jetting service. Call a plumber as chronic clogs or roots in pipes often require high pressure water jetting.
How often should drain pipes be snaked?
For problem drains or preventative maintenance, once per year is a good rule of thumb. Snaking seasonally can catch clogs before they become complete obstructions.
Conclusion
Knowing how to use a plumbing snake properly is an essential home maintenance skill. Assembling the right snake, carefully inserting it to reach clogs, and gently rotating the handle will allow you to successfully remove obstructions. Always take safety precautions, work slowly, and call a plumber for severe blockages. With regular snaking, you can avoid major drain disasters and keep water flowing smoothly.