How to Use a Plumbing Snake

When faced with a clogged drain, many homeowners feel frustration and urgency. Clogs can disrupt daily routines, making it essential to have a reliable solution at hand. One of the most effective tools for this task is a plumbing snake. But do you know how to use a plumbing snake?

In this article, we will discuss how to effectively use a plumbing snake to clear stubborn clogs from your drains and pipes. We will also cover essential preparations, techniques for inserting the snake, and more!

How to Use a Plumbing Snake 

A plumbing snake is one of the essential tools for clearing stubborn clogs in drains and pipes. To use it effectively, begin by inserting the snake into the drain opening. As you push the snake through, continue until you feel resistance, which indicates you’ve reached the clog. 

Now, rotate the handle to dislodge and break up the blockage. Finally, carefully pull the snake back out, removing the debris from the drain. We went into more detail about this below so you could grasp the procedure.

Preparing to use the plumbing snake

Before using a plumbing snake, start by removing the drain cover to access the pipe opening. Be sure to gather all necessary tools, including protective equipment, a bucket, and cleaning supplies. Wearing gloves will protect your hands from dirt, debris, or any chemicals that might be present.

Clearing the drain yourself with a plumbing snake can help you avoid the cost of hiring a plumber, which typically ranges from $100 to $300 for unclogging a drain, depending on the clog’s severity.

Next, clear the area around the drain to give yourself enough room to work comfortably. If you’re dealing with a minor blockage, consider using a plunger first to try and dislodge it. This step can help make the snaking process smoother and more effective.

Inserting and using the snake

Start by slowly inserting the snake into the drain opening, applying gentle, consistent pressure as you guide it deeper into the pipe. As you guide the cable through, stay alert for any resistance, which may indicate the presence of a clog. 

It’s worth noting that while both plumbing and drainage systems deal with water flow, plumbing generally involves the installation and maintenance of the pipes and fixtures that supply water, while drainage systems are specifically designed for waste removal. Tools like plumbing snakes and augers are primarily used in drainage work to address clogs in pipes that carry waste away.

Continue to insert the plumbing snake gradually into the drain until you feel significant resistance. This resistance typically indicates the location of the clog, allowing you to focus your efforts on clearing it effectively.

At this point, rotate the handle of the snake. This motion allows the tip to either break through the clog or latch onto it. Keep rotating and applying gentle pressure to work the snake through the obstruction. Be cautious not to push too hard, as excessive force can damage the pipes.

Removing the clog and cleaning up

After breaking up the clog, slowly retract the snake from the drain, being mindful that the clog material may come out with it. To avoid a mess, have a bucket ready to catch any debris that might dislodge. If the clog doesn’t emerge, it may have been successfully broken up and flushed through the system.

This type of clog is often referred to as a plumbing stoppage, which occurs when waste or foreign materials block the flow of water in pipes, leading to backups. Addressing stoppages promptly helps prevent more severe plumbing issues.

Once the snake is fully removed, run hot water down the drain to help flush out any remaining debris. Following this, thoroughly clean the snake with soap and water, then dry it to prevent rusting. Lastly, replace the drain cover and dispose of any collected debris properly.

How to Use Plumbing Auger

A plumbing auger, often referred to as a closet or toilet auger, is a specialized tool designed to clear clogs in toilets. Unlike a standard plumbing snake, which is typically used for sinks and general drains, the auger features a curved shaft that allows it to navigate the toilet’s trap without causing damage to the porcelain.

For those new to these tools, understanding basic plumbing practices, such as when to use an auger versus a snake, is key to effective DIY clog removal and can help avoid further plumbing issues.

To use the auger, insert the curved end into the toilet bowl and gently guide it into the drain opening. Turn the handle clockwise as you slowly push the auger cable into the toilet. This rotating motion enables the auger to maneuver through the toilet’s intricate plumbing passages, helping to clear the obstruction.

Plumbing snake vs. Plumbing auger

While both tools serve similar purposes in clearing clogs, the plumbing snake is notably more versatile and can be used on various drain types. Its long, flexible cable allows it to reach deep into pipes, making it effective for various applications. 

In contrast, the auger is specifically designed for toilets. It features a shorter, more rigid cable with a protective rubber coating to prevent damage.

Additionally, a plumbing snake is often operated manually, whereas many augers have a hand crank mechanism. This design enables the auger to effectively clear toilet clogs while minimizing the risk of harming the toilet bowl. So, a standard plumbing snake is usually the superior choice when dealing with clogs in other drains.

Conclusion

Learning how to use a plumbing snake effectively can save you time, money, and frustration when dealing with stubborn clogs. By mastering the technique of using a plumbing snake, you’ll be better equipped to handle common household plumbing issues on your own. 

As pointed out, while snaking a drain can often resolve many clogs, professional help may be necessary for more complex problems. Always prioritize safety, and don’t hesitate to call a plumber if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the task. 

You’ll gain confidence in using a plumbing snake to maintain your drains’ smooth operation with time and experience. If you plan to undertake some projects, services Verified makes it easy to find the best professionals for your home projects. 

With thorough vetting processes, we ensure only the most reliable contractors are recommended. Trust us to connect you with top-quality services you can count on!