Oct 28,2023

How to Use a Drain Snake?

Dealing with a stubbornly clogged drain can be a real headache. When the trusty plunger and chemical drain cleaning products don’t do the job, it’s time to bring in the drain snake. Also known as an auger, a drain snake is a versatile tool that tackles tough clogs that seem impervious to other methods. As a reputable plumbing service, Rooter Man leverages innovative tools like the drain snake to ensure your plumbing is in tip-top shape. Here are the steps on how to use a drain snake effectively.

Insert The Snake into the Pipe

The first step in using a drain snake is to locate the access point to your plumbing system. This is found through a clean-out plug or by removing the trap beneath your sink. Once you have access to the pipe, carefully insert the snake’s coiled wire into the drain opening. Wear gloves to protect your hands from any debris.

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Push Down the Drain Snake

Gently push the snake into the pipe until you encounter resistance. This resistance is likely the clog itself. Be patient, and don’t force the snake, as doing so could damage your pipes. Instead, use a steady and gradual pressure to maneuver the snake deeper into the drain, preventing costly drain line repair emergencies.

Grip Strength and Push the Snake Handle

The drain snake typically has a handle at one end that allows you to grip and control it. As you push the snake further into the drain, maintain a firm grip on the handle. This will give you better control over the snake’s movement and help you navigate around bends and curves in the pipe.

Keep Rotating the Snake

To break up the clog, rotate the snake clockwise while continuing to push it down the drain. The coiled wire grabs onto and dislodges debris, so this twisting motion is crucial for effective DIY drain cleaning. Keep the rotation consistent to ensure the snake can penetrate the clog.

Rotate Back the Snake

Once you have broken through the clog or reached its end, start rotating the snake in the opposite direction (counterclockwise) while retracting it from the drain. This action will help to bring any loosened debris or clogged remnants back out of the pipe. If this doesn’t work, hire a reliable plumber to handle drain cleaning in Fountain Valley.

Flush The Sink Drain

After you have removed the clog using the drain snake, it’s essential to test your sink or drain to ensure that the water flows freely. Turn on the tap or flush the toilet and observe the drainage. If the water flows smoothly without backing up, you’ve successfully cleared the clog. However, backups during this stage show a more severe blockage, prompting professional drain line repair services.

Clean The Auger & Snake The Drain Again

Before storing your drain snake, clean it thoroughly to prevent any residual gunk from drying on it. Rinse it with clean water, and if necessary, use a brush to scrub away any stubborn debris. Properly cleaned, your drain snake will be ready for future use.

A drain snake is a valuable tool for tackling tough drain clogs. By following these steps, you can use a drain snake to clear blockages and restore proper drainage in your plumbing system. It is advisable to exercise caution, wear protective gear, and be patient throughout the process to prevent expensive drain line repair projects. Contact us at Rooter Man and session with our plumbing service experts at competitive rates.