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How to Use a Plumbing Snake

How to Use a Plumbing Snake

Dealing with clogged drains can be frustrating, but using a plumbing snake effectively to unclog pipes will make this task less demanding. Mr. Rooter Plumbing walks through these steps here, so you don't need to call a plumbing service as quickly.

What Is a Plumbing Snake (aka Drain Snake or Auger)?

A plumbing snake, commonly called a drain snake or auger, is an effective tool designed to unclog stubborn drain clogs more effectively than a plunger. Ideal for performing DIY plumbing repair service tasks like drain cleaning and fixing clogged drainage lines without professional intervention immediately, the plumbing snake makes for fast repairs without expensive professional fees.

Step 1: Choose the Appropriate Snake

There are various kinds of plumbing snakes designed to tackle specific jobs. A hand-cranked drain snake usually suffices when clearing home clogs in sinks, showers, or toilets, though selecting one with appropriate size specifications for your drain may prevent unnecessary pipe damage and future complications.

Step 2: Prep the Area

To keep things tidy when unclogging drains, prep your area by placing something beneath your drain to catch any liquid or debris that comes tumbling out when unblocking them - this simplifies cleanup!

Step 3: Insert the Snake

Carefully feed one end of a snake into the drain until resistance appears—this is likely your source of obstruction. Be as gentle as possible to avoid damaging pipes during this step.

Step 4: Start Cranking

Once your snake is placed, turn its handle clockwise so the serpent coil can rotate slowly around itself, helping it hook onto debris and break it apart. Adjust angles or press harder on stubborn clogs until the clogging has subsided.

Step 5: Unclog The Drain

While cranking, slowly unwind your snake back out to draw out debris collected within your drain system. Be prepared for potential messiness as you go along; cleaning may sometimes become necessary! Repeat this process multiple times until all debris has been eliminated from your pipes.

Step 6: Flush the Drain

Once all debris has been eliminated from the drain, flushing with hot water can help remove any residue left by previous steps and ensure your drain is clear of dirt and sediments. If it still doesn't seem clear after this second round of snake plunging is complete, repeat snaking accordingly until everything has been cleared away completely.

Step 7: Clean Up

Once the drain has been cleared, rinse your plumbing snake using water and disinfectant to extend its lifespan and minimize germ or bacteria transmission. This helps ensure its condition stays optimum and protects against future germs or bacteria spread by germ-ridden drains.

When Should You Call a Plumber

A plumbing snake can be helpful, but sometimes, tricky clogs prove too much for even you to manage independently. If you still experience difficulty clearing it away after using it a few times, professional services should be called upon; their expert knowledge also allows for deeper clogged drain line repair services.

Remember, regular drain cleaning can prevent clogs from forming. If clogs seem to form frequently in your pipes, schedule maintenance with a plumbing service to keep things flowing smoothly and free from blockages.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing

Utilizing a plumbing snake is an invaluable skill that saves time and money. Following these steps, you can do simple plumbing repair services, but contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing if the task seems overwhelming. Professional assistance could prevent irreparable harm from being done to your plumbing system!