What Is a Plumbing Snake?
Ever heard of a plumber’s snake and thought—why the weird name? Well, it’s not a reptile, but it sure can slither through your pipes! A plumbing snake, also called a drain auger, is a handy tool used to dislodge clogs deep in your plumbing system.
How It Works
A plumbing snake consists of a long, flexible metal coil that gets inserted into the drain. You rotate the handle (or motor) to push the coil forward. When it hits a clog, it either breaks it up or pulls it back out.
Types of Plumbing Snakes
Handheld Drain Augers
These are great for sinks and tubs. They’re compact and manually powered, making them perfect for DIYers.
Toilet Augers
Specifically designed to tackle toilet clogs, these snakes have a protective rubber coating to avoid scratching porcelain.
Motorized Drain Snakes
If you’re dealing with stubborn clogs or have a longer drain pipe to clear, these are your go-to. They’re powerful and typically used by pros.
When to Use a Plumbing Snake
Common Signs of Clogs
- Slow-draining sinks or tubs
- Gurgling noises from pipes
- Water backing up
Situations Perfect for a Snake
- Kitchen grease clogs
- Hair clogs in showers
- Small toys flushed by curious toddlers (yes, it happens!)
How to Use a Plumbing Snake
Step-by-Step Guide
- Insert the end of the snake into the drain opening.
- Slowly uncoil the snake by turning the handle.
- Keep pushing until you feel resistance.
- Crank the handle to break up or hook the clog.
- Pull the snake back out.
- Run water to test the drain.
Safety Tips
- Wear gloves (it gets messy).
- Avoid using too much force.
- Always clean the tool afterward.
Plumbing Snake vs Chemical Cleaners
While chemical drain cleaners may seem like the easier option, they can damage your pipes and harm the environment. A snake is a mechanical fix—no harsh chemicals, just good old-fashioned effort.
Advantages of Using a Plumbing Snake
Eco-Friendly and Safe
Snakes don’t introduce any harmful substances into your water system.
Cost-Effective Maintenance
A decent snake costs less than one visit from a plumber—and it’s reusable.
Choosing the Right Snake
Factors to Consider
- Pipe size and location
- Type of clog
- Manual vs motorized
Best Snakes for Home Use
- DrainX Pro 25-Foot Steel Auger
- Ridgid Power Spin
- Cobra Products Toilet Auger
Maintenance and Storage Tips
Cleaning the Snake After Use
Rinse it thoroughly with water, then disinfect with a bleach solution.
Proper Storage
Coil the snake neatly and store it in a dry place to prevent rust.
When to Call a Professional
Limits of a Plumbing Snake
If you’ve snaked the line and the issue persists, you might be dealing with a collapsed pipe or a more serious blockage.
Warning Signs of Bigger Issues
- Multiple drains clogging at once
- Sewer smells
- Frequent clog recurrence
Conclusion
Using a plumbing snake can be a game changer for homeowners looking to tackle clogs without always calling in reinforcements. It’s simple, affordable, and effective when used correctly.
So next time your sink starts draining like molasses, don’t panic—snake it!
FAQs
1. Can a plumbing snake damage pipes?
Only if used incorrectly or with too much force. Go gently, and you’ll be fine.
2. How long should a drain snake be?
For household use, 15 to 25 feet is usually enough. Longer snakes are for professionals.
3. Can I use a toilet snake in the sink?
You can, but it’s bulky. Stick to handheld augers for sinks.
4. Do plumbing snakes work on grease clogs?
Yes, but sometimes hot water and detergent help loosen grease first.
5. How often should I snake my drains?
Only when needed—overuse can wear out pipes or push clogs deeper.