How to Use a Drain Snake to Unclog a Drain

Have  you ever had a clogged drain that no amount of plunging could fix? If so, then you may need to use a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible rod that you insert into the drain to remove the clog.

Before you use a drain snake, though, it’s important to understand how they work and what precautions you need to take. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about using a drain snake to unclog a drain. You may also need to see a plumber like the ones from RS Andrews team of plumbers to hear some tips on how to do the job correctly. If a better drainage system has to be installed, there are drain excavation services that can help.

What is a Drain Snake?

A drain snake is also called a plumbing auger or an electric eel. It’s a long, flexible rod with a spiral of wire at the end. The wire is used to grab onto and break up the clog so that it can be flushed away. It may also be used by a septic cleaning services company when removing clogs in a septic system.

Drain snakes come in different sizes, so it’s important to choose one that is appropriate for the size of your drain. If the drain snake is too small, it won’t be able to reach the clog. If it’s too large, it could damage your pipes.

How Does a Drain Snake Work?

To use a drain snake, start by feeding the end of the snake into the drain until you feel resistance. Then, turn the handle on the snake clockwise to begin rotating the coil. Continue turning the handle until you feel the snake catch on something. This indicates that you’ve reached the clog.

Once you’ve located the clog, continue turning the handle to wind the snake around the clog. This will help to break up the clog so that it can be flushed away. Once you’ve broken up the clog, remove the snake from the drain and run water through the drain to flush away any remaining debris.

Precautions to Take When Using a Drain Snake

Before you use a drain snake, there are a few precautions you should take to avoid damaging your pipes:

  • Use the proper size drain snake. As mentioned above, using a drain snake that is too small or too large could damage your pipes.
  • Don’t force the snake through the drain. If you feel resistance, stop turning the handle and try another angle. Forcing the snake through the drain could damage the wires on the end of the snake.
  • Be careful not to scratch your sink or tub. The wire on the end of the snake is sharp and can scratch surfaces as it’s being inserted into the drain. To avoid this, cover the end of the snake with a rag before inserting it into the drain.
  • Let an expert plumber check what’s wrong with your sewer line! Don’t use a drain snake if you have a sewer line clog. Drain snakes are only meant for small clogs in drains, not sewer lines. If you have a clog in your sewer line, you’ll need to call a professional plumber from a service like Fayette Plumbing, Heating & Air to clear it. If the problem has anything to do with your septic system, you may need emergency septic system services.

It’s also important to be careful when using a drain snake. The spiral wire can easily damage your pipes if you’re not careful. If you’re not sure how to use a drain snake, it’s best to work with a professional Plumber Surry Hills. They will be able to safely and effectively use a drain snake to unclog your drain.

If you are looking for a professional plumbing company, please contact The Drain Company. They offer a wide range of plumbing services, including drain cleaning and unclogging. Their experienced plumbers will be able to safely and effectively use a drain snake to unclog your drain. You can visit their website to learn more about their services.