Dealing with a clogged drain can be a hassle, especially when it disrupts your daily routine. However, before you reach out for professional help, it might be worth trying to tackle the issue yourself using a drain snake. Plumb Smart aims to empower homeowners in the Acworth, GA area with the knowledge and tools necessary to manage minor plumbing problems. Here are five pro tips on how to use a drain snake, which could save you both time and money.
What is a Drain Snake?
A drain snake, also known as a plumbing snake or auger, is a tool designed to clear clogs that are too stubborn for a plunger. It consists of a flexible metal cable with a corkscrew tip for hooking or breaking up obstructions in pipes. Whether manual or electric, this tool can be incredibly effective at cleaning drains when used correctly.
1. Choose the Right Type of Snake
The key to successful drain snaking starts with selecting the appropriate tool for the job. Hand-cranked drain snakes are suitable for most residential clogs in sinks, bathtubs, or showers, as they are designed to navigate through the p-trap to reach and remove blockages. For more severe clogs or issues deeper within the sewer line, a power auger might be necessary, which typically requires a professional’s expertise.
2. Prepare the Area
To prevent mess and potential water damage, it’s essential to prep the area around the drain. Place a bucket or towels underneath the pipe to catch any dislodged water or debris. Wearing gloves is also recommended to protect your hands from dirt and possible injury from the snake’s metal cable.
3. Insert the Snake Carefully
Gently feed the tip of the drain snake into the clogged drain, turning the handle slowly as you push it downwards. The objective is to move the snake through the pipe until it reaches the clog, avoiding any forceful pushing that could damage the pipes or cause the snake to get stuck.
4. Finding and Clearing the Clog
When you encounter resistance, it’s likely you’ve found the clog. Rotate the snake to either break up the blockage or hook onto it for removal. If the resistance lessens, you’ve probably cleared the clog. Carefully withdraw the snake, cleaning off any accumulated debris as it comes out.
5. Flush with Hot Water
After successfully using the drain snake, flush the drain with hot water to remove any lingering debris. This not only ensures the clog is thoroughly cleared but also helps to sanitize the drain.
Wrapping Up
While a drain snake can be an effective tool for DIY plumbing fixes, it’s crucial to know when a problem is beyond your capabilities. If you encounter a persistent issue or if the clog is more complex than initially thought, reaching out to professional plumbers like Plumb Smart in Acworth, GA, is advisable. Our team is dedicated to providing excellent plumbing services, ensuring your home’s plumbing system runs smoothly.
Ready to Tackle Your Next Plumbing Project?
If you don’t feel confident to tackle DIY plumbing tasks or if you need professional support, Plumb Smart is here for you.
Schedule a plumber for help with your plumbing needs today. We are committed to assisting you with all your plumbing needs, from simple clogs to major installations.