Do you have a stubborn clog that you can’t seem to get rid of? Depending on what the cause of the clog is, and which drain is clogged, a drain snake might be the answer you’re looking for.
Read on to learn about how to use a drain snake without damaging your pipes.
1. Make sure you’re using the right drain snake for the job
When you have to snake a drain, it’s not a one size fits all type of deal.
Depending on what drain needs to be snaked, you’ll want to make sure you pick the right kind and size of the snake for the job.
Overlooking this could lead to damaging your pipes and making your clogged drain into more of a hassle than it already is.
For instance, if you need to snake a tub, you’ll want to use a snake that isn’t too thick. A snake with a 1/4″ to 5/16″ thickness should do the trick for this kind of clog.
For something like a clog in your bathroom sink, you’ll want to check to first see that there is nothing under the trap and then use a small or medium-sized snake.
For a bigger clog in something like a mainline drain, you’ll need a bigger snake. If you use a smaller one, it could become knotted in the drain and become hard to remove.
Taking the time to find out what snake best suits your needs is a crucial step in preventing damage to your pipes.
If you’re unsure of what kind of snake to use, consult a professional and look into ways to help prevent clogs in the future.
When snaking any kind of drain, it’s important to take your time and exercise patience.
2. Take your time and be patient
There’s no harm in going slowly, and it makes it more likely that damage won’t occur. Better to do it the right way, even if it takes you a little bit longer!
To begin snaking your drain, push the end of the snake into the clogged drain until it reaches a stopping point. This means you’ve located the clog!
Next, try turning and rotating the snake to see if you can break up and dislodge the clog.
If you push the snake again and face no resistance, you likely broke up the clog and pieces of it will be able to be flushed away with water.
If you’re still experiencing resistance, it is possible that whatever has caused the clog is attached to the bottom of your snake.
Fish the line out, and throw the culprit into the trash!
To make sure you removed the entire clog, run water for several minutes to make sure everything is running smoothly and that the water doesn’t get backed up.
3. If you continue to have trouble, call a plumber
If you’ve exhausted the ways to try and remove a clog or find that your drain snake isn’t fixing the problem, it’s time to call a plumber.
Bringing in a professional is a sure way to find out what is causing your plumbing problems, get rid of even the trickiest clogs, and clean your drains if necessary.
Conclusion
It can be intimidating to use a drain snake, but it doesn’t have to be if you follow a few simple steps.
If you have the right kind and size of the snake for the job, they can be a real lifesaver!
Remember: take your time, work patiently and efficiently, and call a plumber if you need help.
If you need assistance with a clog or another plumbing related issue, please contact us and let us know how we can help you today!
