How To Snake Your Drain: Step By Step Guide
Clogged drains are a common household issue that can be a real nuisance. Fortunately, you have a few options to manage your clogged drain problem. You can reach for the phone to call a trusted plumber at RootBusters, or you can first try to solve the plumbing problem yourself. Snaking your own drain can be an effective and cost-saving solution when dealing with minor clogged drains. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of how to snake your drain with tips and precautions, and remember, if you need assistance, RootBusters Plumbing is just a call away at 844-247-7668.
Understanding the Basics
Before you dive into snaking your drain, it's essential to understand the basics. A drain snake, also known as a plumbing snake or auger, is a flexible tool designed to clear clogs and blockages within pipes. It features a flexible, coiled metal cable that you can feed into the drain until it reaches and dislodges the clog.
You start by first locating the drain access point and carefully feeding the snake into the pipe, rotating the snake to break up the obstruction, allowing water to flow freely again. It’s crucial to be cautious and patient during the process, avoiding excessive force to prevent damage to pipes.
Regularly having your drains snaked can prevent build-ups, ensuring a smoothly functioning plumbing system and preventing more significant issues down the line.
What You'll Need
To snake your drain effectively, gather the following tools and materials:
- Plumbing snake or drain auger: Available at most hardware stores, you can choose between manual and electric versions. Manual ones are more common for household use.
- Bucket: For collecting debris and excess water.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and debris.
- Safety glasses: Prevent any splashes from reaching your eyes.
- Towels or rags: Handy for cleaning and drying.
- Wrench: To remove the drain trap, if necessary.
Step-by-Step Guide to Snaking Your Drain
1. Preparation
- Put on safety gear: Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from dirt, debris, and potential splashes.
- Clear the area: Remove any objects from under the sink and place a bucket or towel under the drain to catch any water or debris.
2. Remove the Drain Stopper (if applicable)
If your sink has a drain stopper, remove it. The method for removal can vary, but most have a pivot rod that can be unscrewed or detached.
3. Insert the Drain Snake
- Extend the cable: Feed the cable into the drain until you encounter resistance. This is likely where the clog is located.
- Turn the handle: Start turning the handle clockwise to advance the cable into the drain. Apply gentle but steady pressure. If you encounter resistance, the cable may have reached the clog.
4. Break Up the Clog
- Turn the snake: Rotate the handle in a clockwise direction. The snake's coiled end will help break up the clog.
- Keep the cable moving: Don't force it. Instead, let the cable work its way through the clog. If you encounter excessive resistance, you may need to retract the cable slightly and then advance it again.
5. Retract the Cable
-Once you've worked the snake through the clog and it moves freely down the drain, carefully retract the cable.
-If the clog is particularly stubborn, you may need to repeat the process, applying additional pressure as needed.
6. Clean Up
- After the cable is completely retracted, wipe it clean, as well as any debris or residue that may have splashed out of the drain.
- Reassemble any parts you removed, such as the drain stopper, and ensure everything is secure.
7. Test the Drain
-Turn on the water to check if the clog has been cleared. If the water flows freely down the drain, you've successfully snaked your drain.
Precautions and Tips
- Take your time: Be patient and avoid rushing the process. Rushing can lead to tangling the snake cable.
- Be gentle: Apply steady but gentle pressure. Forcing the snake too aggressively can damage your pipes.
- Retract slowly: When retracting the snake, do it slowly to avoid splashing or re-clogging.
- Dispose of debris properly: Any debris you remove should be disposed of in a trash bag. Don't flush it down the toilet.
- Know your limits: If you're unsure about snaking a drain, have concerns about damaging your plumbing, or if the clog persists, it's best to contact a professional plumbing service like RootBusters Plumbing.
When to Call RootBusters Plumbing
While snaking your own drain can resolve many clogs, there are situations where professional assistance is necessary:
1. Recurring Clogs: If you find yourself snaking the same drain frequently, it could be a sign of a more significant plumbing issue that requires professional attention.
2. Multiple Clogs: If you have multiple clogs throughout your home, it might be an indicator of a blockage in your main sewer line.
3. No Improvement: If you've attempted to snake the drain and have seen no improvement, it's time to call in the experts.
4. Unfamiliarity: If you're not comfortable using a drain snake or don't have the right tools, don't hesitate to call RootBusters Plumbing.
Contact RootBusters Plumbing
When it comes to plumbing projects in Bolingbrook, RootBusters is your reliable plumbing partner. Our team of experienced and trusted plumbers is ready to assist with any plumbing issues you may encounter. Whether it’s routine plumbing maintenance, a clogged sewer line or unexpected plumbing emergency, we bring expertise and dedication to every project. Contact RootBusters Plumbing, Sewer and Drains at 844-247-7668 for prompt and professional service, ensuring your plumbing needs are met with precision and care. You can trust us to keep your plumbing systems running smoothly.