Clogged drains can be a nightmare for homeowners, often leading to slow drainage or even complete blockages. While some blockages can be tackled with chemical drain cleaners or plungers, more stubborn obstructions may require a more effective solution: a drain snake. A drain snake, also known as a plumbing auger, is a handy tool that can help you clear away debris that is causing your pipes to back up.
In this guide, we will walk you through how to use a drain snake for plumbing repairs, ensuring you can fix clogged drains safely and efficiently without needing to call a plumber. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right snake to understanding how to use it effectively.
What Is a Drain Snake?
A drain snake is a long, flexible coil of steel that is designed to be inserted into a drain pipe to break through blockages. It works by physically pushing, pulling, or twisting through debris, such as hair, grease, or food waste, that is clogging the pipe. Drain snakes come in various sizes and styles, including manual and powered models, and can be used for different types of plumbing problems.
Types of Drain Snakes
Before diving into how to use a drain snake, it’s essential to understand the different types available:
- Manual Drain Snake: This type is typically a coiled metal cable that you feed into the drain by hand. It’s ideal for minor clogs in sinks, tubs, and showers.
- Drum Auger: Often used for larger pipes, this is a motorized version of a drain snake. It can handle bigger blockages and is usually best suited for more serious plumbing issues.
- Toilet Auger: Specifically designed for use in toilets, this snake has a protective sleeve to prevent damage to the porcelain. It’s especially useful for clearing clogs caused by toilet paper or other small objects.
- Power Auger: A more heavy-duty option, a power auger is a motorized tool that can handle tough clogs in large drain lines. It’s most commonly used by professional plumbers but is available for DIY enthusiasts who want a more efficient solution.
When to Use a Drain Snake
A drain snake should be used when plungers or chemical drain cleaners fail to clear a blockage. If you’ve tried traditional methods and still experience slow draining or complete blockages, it’s time to break out the drain snake. Common problems that can be solved with a drain snake include:
- Hair buildup in shower or sink drains.
- Grease clogs in kitchen sinks.
- Food debris or waste accumulation.
- Tree roots or other large obstructions in the main sewer line.
How to Use a Drain Snake
Now that you understand what a drain snake is and when to use it, let’s walk through the process of using it effectively for plumbing repairs.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Drain snake (manual or motorized, depending on the clog)
- A bucket or towels (to catch any water or debris)
- Rubber gloves
- A wrench (for loosening pipes, if necessary)
- Plumber’s tape (optional, for sealing pipes)
Step 2: Prepare the Area
Start by clearing the area around the drain you’re going to work on. If you’re working with a sink or bathtub, make sure to place towels or a bucket underneath to catch any water or debris that may spill out.
If you’re using a toilet auger, be sure to cover the floor with old towels to prevent any mess from getting onto your bathroom floor.
Step 3: Insert the Drain Snake
For manual drain snakes, begin by feeding the coiled end of the snake into the drain. Slowly turn the handle in a clockwise direction, allowing the snake to move deeper into the pipe. You may encounter resistance as the snake hits the obstruction. At this point, keep turning the handle and apply gentle pressure to help the snake break through the clog.
If you’re using a power auger or drum auger, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for inserting the snake into the drain. Most models will have a trigger or switch that you press to engage the motor, which helps feed the snake into the pipe.
Step 4: Break Through the Clog
Once the snake reaches the obstruction, you may need to apply a little more force to break it apart. With a manual snake, continue turning the handle while applying pressure. This will help the coiled metal scrape away at the debris blocking the pipe.
For a motorized model, the snake will do much of the work for you, but you may still need to guide the machine by applying slight pressure to ensure the auger is penetrating the clog.
If you’re dealing with something like hair, the snake should catch it, allowing you to slowly pull it out of the drain. If it’s a more solid clog, you may need to rotate the snake back and forth to loosen and break it up.
Step 5: Remove the Snake
Once you’ve broken through the clog, slowly retract the snake from the drain. As you pull it out, be prepared for any debris that might come with it. It’s a good idea to have a bucket or trash bag nearby to dispose of any gunk that the snake brings back.
Step 6: Test the Drain
After removing the snake, run water through the drain to check if the blockage has cleared. If the water drains properly and without any backing up, you’ve successfully cleared the clog. If there’s still some resistance, you may need to repeat the process, possibly feeding the snake deeper into the pipe or rotating it in a different direction.
Step 7: Clean and Sanitize
Once you’re done, it’s essential to clean your drain snake properly. For manual models, wipe down the metal coil with a cloth or paper towel, and use a disinfectant to clean the handle and any exposed parts. For motorized augers, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
Step 8: Reassemble the Pipes (if applicable)
If you had to remove any pipe sections to access the drain, be sure to replace them and tighten any loose nuts or bolts. You can use plumber’s tape to ensure a tight seal before reassembling.
Safety Tips for Using a Drain Snake
- Wear gloves: Protect your hands from germs and bacteria that may be present in the drain.
- Wear safety glasses: This is especially important when using a motorized drain snake to prevent debris from flying into your eyes.
- Use caution with chemicals: If you’ve previously used a chemical drain cleaner, wait until the product has had time to dissipate before using a drain snake. Chemicals can react with the metal and cause dangerous fumes.
- Don’t force the snake: If the snake is having difficulty moving, don’t force it. This could lead to pipe damage. Instead, try rotating it or pulling it out and starting over.
When to Call a Professional
While a drain snake is an effective tool for most household plumbing problems, some clogs may be too severe for DIY repairs. If you’re dealing with a persistent clog or one in a main sewer line, it’s best to contact a professional plumber who has the necessary equipment and expertise to resolve the issue.
Additionally, if you’re unsure about how to use the drain snake or feel uncomfortable handling the plumbing repairs yourself, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. A trusted service like hi-techplumbingandair.com/plumbing-wellington/ can perform an inspection to ensure that there’s no underlying damage to your pipes.
Conclusion
Using a drain snake for plumbing repairs can be an excellent way to fix clogged drains and save money on plumbing services. By understanding the different types of drain snakes, knowing how to use them, and following safety precautions, you can effectively clear blockages and restore proper drainage to your home. If the clog persists or you’re unsure about the process, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Happy plumbing!
