Say Goodbye to Clogged Drains: Expert Tips on How to Snake a Drain

Slow-draining or clogged drains can be easily cleaned with a drain snake. This simple, low-cost tool effectively snags and pulls out soft debris causing the blockage, saving you time and money without needing to call a plumber.

While convenient, liquid drain cleaners aren’t always the best solution for clearing clogs in sinks, tubs, and showers. They can damage pipes and septic systems and often fail to tackle the toughest clogs.

Next time your plunger doesn’t clear a stubborn clog, learn how to snake a drain yourself with these easy steps, and save money on professional services.

What Is A Drain Snake?

A drain snake, also known as a plumber’s snake or drain auger, is a thin, flexible tool used to remove clogs in plumbing. It’s especially useful for tough clogs that a plunger can’t fix. This tool can reach deep into pipes to break up and pull out debris, making it an essential tool for keeping your drains clear. Plumbers often use it to unclog drain pipes or sanitary sewers. 

Plumbing snakes can be purchased at most home improvement stores for around $15 to $20. The clog-snagging end of the drain snake has several bendable sections and interchangeable tips, such as an eyelet or corkscrew tip, a straight tip with small teeth or claws, or a tip with tiny barbs along its length. Although it sounds like a gadget out of this world, it’s relatively easy to use. Let’s learn how to snake a drain!

How To Snake a Drain: In Easy Steps

Safety First

• Wear safety glasses and gloves.
• If there are liquid drain openers in the drain, flush with water first.
• Avoid using caustic chemicals before snaking the drain.

Step 1: Remove Traps or Drains

• Depending on the drain type (sink, shower, or tub), remove the first section of the drainage pipe to make it easier to insert the drain snake.

Step 2: Extend Cable

• Loosen the thumbscrew on the drum of the drain snake.
• Manually extend the cable and push it into the drain pipe until you reach an obstruction.

Step 3: Snag Obstruction

• Tighten the thumbscrew.
• Slowly rotate the handle two or three times to snag the clog.

Step 4: Retract Cable

• Loosen the thumbscrew.
• Slowly pull the cable back out without turning it. If stuck, reverse the drum and cable while backing out slowly.

Step 5: Clear Drain Snake

• Remove debris from the end of the snake by twisting counter-clockwise.
• Use a paper towel or disposable cloth to clean the clog.

Step 6: Continue Clearing Pipe

• If you suspect more clogs, repeat the process until you’ve reached the end of the cable.

Step 7: Test Drain Flow

• Reassemble the drainage pipe and run water to check for proper drainage.

Step 8: Clean Drain Snake

• Wash off the snake to remove debris and prevent rust. Let it dry completely before storing.

By following these steps, you can effectively use a drain snake to clear your drains and keep your plumbing in good condition. If you keep on having any issues with your drains, call Local Service Pro Plumbing today. Our snake equipment can clear hard, solid blockages in your piping and restore flow through pipes. Our service professionals are well trained in which methods to employ and can help you clear your drains in a jiffy!