Plumbing snakes are the unsung heroes for homeowners dealing with pesky clogged drains. These handy tools are your go-to solution for tackling everyday plumbing problems without having to call in the experts. Imagine the satisfaction of handling those annoying clogs yourself, saving both time and money. Plus, it’s a great way to build confidence in your home repair skills.
But with so many types of plumbing snakes out there, knowing how to use a drain snake or a toilet snake effectively is essential for resolving any drain dilemma. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. By learning the basics, you’ll be ready to dive into any clog-busting mission with ease.
What Are Plumbing Snakes?
A plumbing snake, also known as a drain auger, is a flexible tool used to dislodge clogs in drain pipes. These tools come in various forms, including the manual snake, the electric snake, and the specialized toilet auger. Each serves specific purposes depending on the nature of the clog and the pipe involved.
When Should You Snake a Drain?
Knowing when to snake a drain is essential for maintaining a smoothly functioning plumbing system. By using a plumbing snake at the right times, you’ll prevent more extensive issues and avoid over-reliance on harsher solutions like chemical drain cleaners.
- Slow Draining Water. If you notice water taking longer than usual to drain, it might be time to engage in the snaking process. A snake cable can effectively tackle minor clogs in narrow pipes, restoring the normal flow of water.
- Frequent Clogs. When a drain clogs frequently despite regular cleaning, using a drain snake can address the underlying issue. This approach, paired with proper drain maintenance, is preferable to the continuous use of drain cleaners, which may damage your pipes over time.
- Unpleasant Odors. Persistent unpleasant odors coming from sinks or larger drains may be caused by trapped debris. Using the auger head of a snake cable, you can remove the blockage causing these odors, resulting in a fresher bathroom or kitchen environment.
- Overflowing Water. Seamless water flow is vital for household functionality, and any overflow is a clear sign of blockages. Before resorting to a chemical drain cleaner, try snaking your drain, especially in larger drains, to avoid possible pipe corrosion.
- Gurgling Sounds. Unusual gurgling sounds in your plumbing system can suggest a partial blockage. Utilizing a snake cable instead of a chemical drain cleaner can effectively tackle obstructions, particularly in narrow pipes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Plumbing Snake
Step 1: Prepare Essential Tools
A plumbing snake suitable for your task is the most critical component, and selecting the appropriate type depends on the nature and location of the clog. Safety goggles are imperative to protect your eyes from potential splashes of dirty water or debris that may be dislodged during the process.
Also, wearing protective gear such as a pair of rubber gloves will shield your hands and arms from sharp objects or contaminants found in the drain, while a bucket and cleaning supplies will help manage any mess that may occur during the operation.
Step 2: Select the Correct Type of Drain Snake
For clogs in a toilet drain, having the proper knowledge of how to use a toilet snake is key. A closet auger, specifically designed to navigate the bends of toilet plumbing, is the best choice.
For narrower pipes, knowing how to use different types of drain snakes with a flexible cable is beneficial, as it can maneuver through twists and turns in the piping without getting stuck. Possessing the appropriate tool for the task increases efficiency and diminishes the likelihood of harming your plumbing fixtures.
Step 3: Clear Your Workspace and Prepare for Potential Water Spillage
Remove any items around the drain area to prevent them from getting wet or obstructing your access while working. Placing a bucket nearby will catch any water or debris that escapes while you are inserting or withdrawing the snake from the drain. This preparation not only keeps your workspace clean but also reduces the risk of the snake slipping out of your hands during use.
Step 4: Insert the Snake
Begin by positioning the snake’s tip at the entrance of the affected drain, making sure a gentle approach is taken to prevent damage to the pipe entry. Feed the drain snake into the pipe slowly and carefully, which helps maintain control and prevents kinks or complications with the snake line. Whether dealing with shower drains, bathtub drains, or sink drains, the snake maneuvers smoothly through the pipe’s curves by gently guiding it through any turns or bends it encounters.
Step 5: Operate the Snake
With a manual snake, rotate the handle clockwise while applying gentle pressure to advance the cable through the drain and engage the clogged material progressively. If using an electric model, activate the motor at a low speed to provide consistent motion and avoid damaging the cables or drainpipe with excessive force.
As the snake encounters resistance from a clog, typically caused by buildups like hair or excessive toilet paper, it slightly increases the pressure or speed. It works patiently through the obstruction, avoiding abrupt movements that could damage the system.
Step 6: Remove the Snake
Once you feel the drain clog has been successfully dislodged, gradually retract the snake from the drain while maintaining a steady, slow pace to prevent debris from falling back into the pipe.
Collect any debris that has lodged on the snake’s head, as this will help you verify the clog is cleared and make sure the tool is ready for the next use. Always clean the snake thoroughly after use to remove any remaining debris and to prevent corrosion or wear, getting it ready for future plumbing tasks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Plumbing Snake
Before you start on your clog-busting mission, being aware of a few common mistakes can lead to a smoother and more successful experience. By anticipating these errors, you can avoid unnecessary damage to your plumbing system and improve the effectiveness of your efforts.
- Avoid over-inserting, which can damage bathroom sinks or kitchen sink plumbing. Over-insertion can create scratches or holes, leading to leaks and potential water damage.
- Do not use excessive force, which could break the snake tip and exacerbate the clog. Applying too much pressure might also cause damage to the pipes themselves, resulting in costly repairs.
- Prioritize safety goggles and gloves to protect from splashes and debris. Failing to wear protective gear could expose you to harmful bacteria or sharp debris that can cause injury.
- Make sure the snake is suitable for the drain type and clog difficulty. Using the wrong type of snake can lead to inefficiency and even worsen the clog, requiring professional intervention.
- Always secure the handle properly before operation. If the handle is not securely fastened, it could slip during use, causing potential injury or damage to your plumbing.
When to Call a Professional
While addressing minor clogs can be a satisfying DIY task, there are times when calling in a professional is essential to avoid more significant issues. Here are some indicators that suggest it’s time to seek expert assistance:
- Persistent Clogs. If you notice that clogs reappear frequently despite your best efforts, it might show a deeper issue within your plumbing system. A professional plumber can diagnose and address underlying problems that a standard plumbing snake may not resolve.
- Regular Backups. Experiencing frequent backups in multiple drains suggests a more extensive plumbing issue, possibly within your main sewer line. Professionals have the expertise and equipment to manage these complex problems effectively and safely.
- Strange Odors. Unusual or persistent odors emanating from your drains can signal a severe blockage or sewer gas leak. A professional can accurately identify and eliminate the source of these odors, establishing a fresh-smelling home environment.
- Inadequate Equipment. Some clogs require specialized tools or techniques that go beyond what standard consumer equipment can handle. A professional plumber has access to heavy-duty drain cleaning machines and advanced technology for more effective solutions.
- Risk of Damage. DIY plumbing attempts sometimes run the risk of damaging pipes, especially if dealing with aged or fragile plumbing systems. Professionals can minimize the risk of damage with their experience and knowledge, preserving your plumbing infrastructure.
- Compliance and Safety. Certain plumbing tasks must comply with local codes and safety regulations, which professionals are equipped to comply with. Hiring a professional means all work is carried out safely and in accordance with legal standards, providing peace of mind.
How to Prevent Drain Clogs
Preventing drain clogs is essential for maintaining a smoothly functioning plumbing system within your home. By adopting a few mindful habits and practices, you can effectively minimize blockages in household drains, keeping your water flow uninterrupted and avoiding the headache of dealing with a stubborn clog.
- Utilize Hot Water for Clean Drains. Regularly pouring hot water down common drains like sinks and showers helps dissolve minor buildups of soap scum, grease, or debris at the drain entrance. This practice promotes smoother flow and reduces the likelihood of blocked drains.
- Proper Garbage Disposal Management. Be mindful of what goes down your garbage disposal. Avoid disposing of fibrous, starchy, or greasy food items, which can lead to a stubborn clog, and instead scrape them into the trash to keep the disposal—and your kitchen drains—clog-free.
- Install and Use a Drain Stopper. Install a drain stopper in every sink and tub to catch debris. This simple addition helps prevent hair, soap, and other solid particles from entering household drains, significantly reducing the chance of block drains in the future.
- Maintain Proper Toilet Habits. Avoid flushing non-flushable items down the toilet bowl. Items like sanitary products, wipes, and large amounts of toilet paper can cause stubborn clogs, so opt for trash disposal to keep your plumbing running smoothly.
- Prevent Tree Root Intrusion. Regularly inspect and maintain outdoor drainage systems to prevent tree roots from invading pipes. Tree roots are notorious for penetrating and blocking underground pipes, so keeping them at bay can preserve the integrity of your plumbing infrastructure outside the home.
Plumbing Snake Usage: Popular Questions Answered
Can a Plumbing Snake Damage My Pipes?
When used properly, tools like a handheld drain auger with a flexible metal cable are designed to navigate the curves of your plumbing without causing harm. However, excessive force or improper technique, such as not wearing safety glasses and using too much elbow grease, can increase the risk of damage, especially in fragile or older pipes. For optimal results, consider using a drain cover to prevent foreign objects from entering drains in the first place.
What Should I Do If My Snake Encounters Strong Resistance?
If you feel strong resistance while operating your plumbing snake, it could show a solid object is blocking the pipe or the flexible metal cable has hit a bend. Avoid forcing the snake, as this may damage the plumbing— instead, try gently retracting and re-inserting the snake. If the resistance persists, it may be best to save money on plumbing services by calling in a licensed plumber to assess the situation.
How Do I Clean a Plumbing Snake After Use?
After you’ve successfully cleared a clog, it’s essential to clean your plumbing snake, especially if it encountered strong resistance. Rinse the cable with cold water to remove debris and any buildup that has accumulated during use. Make sure to dry it thoroughly before storing it to prevent rust, which can degrade the tool’s performance over time.
What Types of Clogs Are Best Suited for a Plumbing Snake?
A handheld drain auger is highly effective for clearing clogs caused by hair, grease, and small debris in sinks, showers, and tubs. However, for more stubborn clogs involving a solid object, such as those beyond the toilet trap, it might be more efficient to use a toilet snake or consult a licensed plumber if water backups persist. Using a drain cover can help prevent such blockages by catching debris before it enters the plumbing system.
When Is It Time to Call a Licensed Plumber?
If you’ve used a plumbing snake but continue experiencing frequent water backups or persistent clogs despite your best efforts with a handheld drain auger, it may show a deeper issue requiring professional expertise. They have advanced tools and the know-how to resolve complex problems safely and effectively. Investing in professional help can save you money on plumbing services in the long run by preventing further damage.
Say Goodbye to Stubborn Drains: Call The Plumbing Artisans Now!
Tackling minor clogs becomes a breeze when you know your tools and stay diligent. By following these steps, you’ll confidently handle tough clogs and keep your plumbing in top shape. And remember, when those stubborn issues persist, calling in a professional is always a smart move.
If you’re short on time for a plumbing project, let The Plumbing Artisans manage it for you! Our team of skilled professionals is ready to tackle any challenge with precision and expertise. With us on your side, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home’s plumbing will be dependable and efficient.
Don’t let plumbing issues disrupt your day—contact The Plumbing Artisans now and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with expert care!
