How to Properly Snake a Clogged Drain Sink

Hello World!  Welcome Friends!  The reality for homeowners is that all types of plumbing systems can become clogged. Whether it is in the sink or toilet, it is unlikely that you’ll be able to avoid dealing with a clog. 

There are a few precautions that you can take to reduce how often your pipes become clogged, such as regularly cleaning them to prevent particles and other risky items from being washed down the drain. 

There are some different ways to try and release the clog from your pipes. One of the most effective is to use a plumber’s snake or a drain snake. 

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Causes Of Clogged Drains

There are many things that cause clogged drains such as: 

• Hair lodged inside the pipe
• Grease, food particles or oil substances solidify inside the pipes
• Soap, particularly laundry soap, can accumulate in pipes
• Tree or plant roots can also tangle up and cause clogs in your pipes
• Minerals from the water deposit on the interior surface of the pipe
• Items flushed down the toilet such as feminine hygiene products, diapers or large amounts of toilet paper

It is important to be careful about what goes down your drain. By using screens, you can help prevent clogs from happening too often. 

How Does the Plumber’s Snake or Drain Snake Work?

One of the common pieces of safety plumbing equipment a plumber has is a snake. It is designed to clear up blockages and clogs in a drain. When you can’t clear a clog using a plunger, a plumber’s snake should be brought in. It is a flexible metal cable that can drill down into the drain to open up the pipe.  There are three parts to the snake: handle, flexible metal pole and a metal auger on the end.

Drain snakes can help alleviate many household drain problems. They work by breaking through the blockage, allowing water to flow freely again. While it can seem pretty straightforward to use a drain snake, it can also cause damage if used incorrectly. There are sharp ends on the plumber’s snake that can cause tears in your pipes. It can lead to leaks and will need professional repair. 

You Can Use a Drain Snake in Different Situations, Including:

• Kitchen sink 
• Toilets
• Shower or bath drains
• Washing machine drains
• Sewer drains
• Swimming pool drains

To avoid causing damage to your piping system, you need to understand how a drain snake works and the best way to use it. 

How to Snake a Clogged Drain

There is a technique of using a plumber’s snake to clear a drain. While it is best to call in a professional plumber who has the knack and know-how to clear your clog quickly, it can help to understand how to use a drain snake. 

You can buy your own drain snake to clean up the clog inside your pipe. But it is important that you are careful not to damage your pipes. There are sharp ends on the snake that help to remove the blockage. If you are not careful, it can wreak the inside of your pipes and lead to bigger, more expensive plumbing repairs. 

The Steps of Clearing a Clog with a Plumber’s Snake Are:

• Clean the area and lay down something to protect the floor, such as sheets or rags.
• Ensure you are wearing the right equipment for the job, for example, gloves. You may also want to put on some old clothing.
• If necessary, remove the trap arm of the drain.
• Carefully insert the drain snake into the pipe. Take your time and don’t force it. Instead, wiggle it back and forth as you insert it further down the drain. If you are using the snake to clear a toilet clog, you need to remember there is a U-shape in the drain. It may take some time and careful maneuvering to get it around the bend.
• Once you feel some resistance you’ll know you’ve reached the source of the clog. To release the clog, move the snake up, down, left and right. You should be able to feel the blockage moving out of the way.
• After the clog has been cleared, take the drain snake out and wash it with hot water to clean off any bacteria. You should also rinse the drain with hot water to let any residue flow through the pipes.

Once you are done snaking and the clog is clear, your water should start to flow normally again.

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