How To Use A Drain Snake?

In this blog post, our professionals from Mr. Rooter Plumbing will take a look into the realm of drain snakes and give you a step-by-step tutorial on how to use one to successfully clear typical clogs and even make small repairs to your drain lines.

Understanding Drain Snakes

Plumbing augers, commonly referred to as drain snakes, are specialist instruments used to unclog drain pipes. They are made up of an auger, which is a long, flexible cable. You insert the auger into the sewer to dislodge and clear obstructions. Choose a drain snake based on your needs from the variety of lengths and thicknesses available. There are also powered drain snakes that include motors for simpler operation in addition to manual drain snakes that need to be manually cranked.

Preparing for the Task

A drain snake, work gloves, eye protection, and a bucket to capture any debris should be gathered before you begin. Learn how your plumbing system is laid out and where the drain lines' access points are. Put on your safety gear and get ready to do some unclean work.

Clearing the Clog

The auger should first be inserted into the drain opening. When using a manual drain snake, push the cable down the drain while turning the handle in a clockwise direction. For powered drain snakes, turn on the motor and direct the cable into the drain according to the manufacturer's instructions. To prevent harming the pipes, keep exerting light pressure when moving the cable.

When you get close to the clog, you can encounter resistance or see the drain snake successfully clearing the blockage. If you come across a barrier, cautiously move the auger back and forth to dislodge it. The blockage needs to be released together with the drain snake when you retrieve it. Keep the bucket nearby to collect any trash so that you are prepared for foul odors and debris.

Minor Drain Line Repairs

A blockage may occasionally be a sign of a more serious problem with the drain pipe. Use a drain snake to look down the pipe further if you think there may be a break or damage. Up until the suspected trouble spot, insert the auger into the drain. To check the state of the pipe, rotate or activate the drain snake. You might have discovered the damaged section if you run into resistance or the auger doesn't move forward. If you need assistance with a drain line repair or replacement, see a qualified plumber.

Conclusion

A drain snake can be used to unclog typical obstructions and even carry out quick drain line inspections at a low cost. You can confidently take on drain cleaning duties and perhaps even manage small repairs if you comprehend the fundamentals of drain snakes and adhere to the instructions provided in this blog post. But always proceed with caution, and know when to call in a pro for more difficult plumbing problems. You can maintain your drains working efficiently and save time and money by using the correct equipment and information.