If you notice that the water in your sink or bathtub isn’t draining properly, then you probably have a clog or blockage. One of the best tools you can use to remove a clog is a drain snake. Drain snakes are relatively easy to use and inexpensive, making them a premier choice if you are looking to tackle this problem, DIY style. Drain snakes can be found at almost any hardware or home improvement store. This unique tool can help you save money and time by avoiding calling a plumber and paying those pesky service fees. Keep reading to learn how to use a drain snake and improve your handyman skills.

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How To Use the Snake

You can purchase a drain snake online or at your local hardware store. We also suggest investing in rubber gloves to help improve your grip when using the snake. Before you begin to snake the drain, whether it’s in the toilet or sink, be sure to shut off the water to the appliance you’re working with. Now you’re ready to use the drain snake.

Step-by-step Guide On How to Snake a Drain

All I have to do is follow these five simple steps:

1. Insert the end of the snake into the drain.

If the drain has a cover, you may need to use a screwdriver to remove the top compartment so the snake can slide into the drain).

2. Feed the snake through the drain.

Do the step slowly so you do not accidentally damage any of the pipes. If you get stuck at any point, try to move the snake in and out to get past it.

3. Slowly begin to turn the crank of the snake to help it move farther down the pipeline.

If you are having trouble doing this, you can pour some water down the drain to help the process proceed smoothly.

4. Wait until you feel some resistance with the snake, which insinuates that you have reached the blockage or clog.

Wiggle and push the wire to help loosen the clog. Move the end of the snake past and back through the clog repeatedly until you don’t feel any more resistance.

5. Once you have dismantled the clog, pull the snake out.

You may need to do this multiple times to clear any residue or debris of the end of the snake and repeat the process.

What to Do After Snaking a Drain

After you have removed the blockage from the pipe, return all the pieces to the drain and run some water down to make sure it properly drains.

Plumbing Experts

If you’ve used drain cleaner and followed the instructions detailed above and your drain is stilled clogged, it may be time to call in professional plumbers. Certified plumbers will undoubtedly have the right equipment onboard their work trucks to ensure they can fix your clog on the first visit. Professional plumbers will use their own specialty drain snake. One that is stronger and better at breaking down thick clumps of grease, hair, and other obstructions that make their way into your drains.

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  •  License: Royalty Free or iStock source: Getty Images

If you are are having issues with a clogged drain, then it’s time to call a plumbing company you can trust. Our experienced and certified plumbers will come to your home, examine your plumbing system and fix the plumbing problem quickly and effectively. Available to you 24/7, ACE Home Services is the Phoenix plumbing company trusted by more Valley residents.

HMH

By HMH