Using A Drain Snake

Snakes make up the middle ground between common household plungers and the really big guns if you re dealing with a clog too stubborn for your plunger then a snake is your best chance to clear it out yourself.

Using a drain snake.

A drain snake can be a do it yourself solution to a professional level problem. Push the end of the snake into the drain opening and turn the handle on the drum that contains the coiled up snake. To use a drain snake to clear a clog in a sink drain pipe follow these steps. Optional but recommended remove the p trap which is the bent pipe that sits right below the sink.

This component can become damaged when using a plumber s snake so it s best to remove and protect it. The auger begins its journey down the drain. A plumber s snake or drain auger is a tool that reaches down into pipes to remove clog causing blockage. Keep pushing more of the snake into the drain until you feel resistance.

If you have confirmed that you have a main sewer line clog you may wish to attempt to clear it yourself. Fortunately like other drain snakes a sewer drain snake can be rented for the day from a tool and equipment rental location. You can use a plunger the least expensive option and proper first choice you can try pouring chemicals down the drain not good for the environment and potentially dangerous to anyone working on the drain. The equipment is easy to use but ask the dealer for operating instructions.