How To Use A Drain Cleaner Snake

Clogged drains are a real pain, aren’t they? A drain snake can be your best mate for tackling stubborn blockages. In this blog, you’ll learn how to use one step by step to clear out pipes without calling a plumber.

Ready to fix that clog? Keep reading!

Key Takeaways

• A drain cleaner snake is a flexible tool used to clear clogs in pipes, available in manual or electric types.
• Always wear gloves, goggles, and follow safety steps to avoid injury when using the snake.
• Insert the snake slowly into the pipe, rotate gently to break clogs, and test with hot water after clearing.
• Clean and dry the tool after use; store it in a cool, dry place to prevent rust.
• If clogs persist despite snaking, call a professional plumber for help.

What Is a Drain Cleaner Snake?

A drain cleaner snake, also called a plumbing snake or auger, is a tool used to clear clogs in pipes. It’s long and flexible, typically made of coiled metal wire. One end has a crank or handle; the other has a corkscrew tip for grabbing debris.

These tools come in various types and sizes. You can find manual models with hand cranks or electric ones powered by motors for tougher blockages. They’re great for sinks, toilets, showers, and more.

Affordable options are available online or at local hardware shops across Australia.

When to Use a Drain Snake

Clogs can happen in kitchen sinks, showers, toilets, or bathroom drains. Use a manual drain snake or plumbing auger for hair stuck in shower pipes. A sink snake is handy for grease build-up in kitchen drains.

For toilets, try using a toilet snake to reach deep clogs without damaging porcelain.

If water drains slowly or backs up completely, it’s time to act fast. Persistent blockages might mean something solid like soap scum or food waste is stuck. Avoid chemical cleaners during these fixes; they harm pipes over time and may not clear the clog entirely!

Preparing to Use a Drain Cleaner Snake

Get your tools ready, wear gloves, and get set to tackle that stubborn clog.

Gather the necessary tools

Grab a drain cleaner snake, like the RIDGID KWIK-SPIN+ Drain Cleaner for £52.45 or the WATTMASTER 30M Super Snake Line priced at £157. These tools come in lengths from 1–8 metres to 30 metres.

Opt for trusted brands such as Ridgid or Wattmaster; they’re reliable and durable.

You’ll also need gloves to keep your hands clean, pliers in case you must adjust anything, and perhaps a bucket to catch messes. For stubborn clogs, manual or electric snakes can make life easier—just choose what suits your pipe size and type of blockage best!

Ensure safety precautions are in place

Wear strong gloves to protect your hands from germs and sharp edges. Put on goggles to block splashes or debris hitting your eyes. Use a mask if there’s any bad smell or harmful fumes.

Avoid touching your face while handling a plumbing snake. Always check the area for slippery floors before working. Keep kids and pets away from the work zone too. Safety gear isn’t just for show—it keeps you safe from injuries or messes!

Steps to Use a Drain Cleaner Snake

Tackle clogs with ease! Follow these simple steps to master the drain cleaner snake like a pro.

Insert the snake into the drain

Push the drain cleaner snake slowly into the pipe. Feed it steadily until you feel resistance. This resistance means you’ve hit a clog in the drain. Don’t force it, or you could damage your plumbing.

Keep the snake straight as much as possible to avoid kinking. If you’re snaking a bathroom sink or shower, start from the p-trap under the fixture. Be patient with bends and elbows in pipes; these can slow progress but are normal spots for blockages.

Rotate and manoeuvre to clear the clog

Turn the handle of the drain snake slowly. This helps break up the clog without damaging pipes. If it feels stuck, rotate in both directions to loosen the blockage further. Avoid forcing it hard, as this could harm your plumbing.

Keep advancing or retracting slightly while turning, like a corkscrew motion. Let the coiled wire grip and catch debris inside the pipe. Be patient—it might take a few twists to clear stubborn blockages!

Remove the snake and test the drain

Pull the drain cleaner snake out slowly. Check for debris stuck on its coils and wipe it off with a rag. Be careful not to drop any gunk back into the sink or pipe.

Flush hot water down the drain to test if it’s clear. Watch for smooth flow without backups or bubbling sounds. If water still pools, repeat snaking gently to avoid damaging pipes.

Cleaning and Storing the Drain Cleaner Snake

Cleaning and storing your drain cleaner snake keeps it in good shape. Neglecting this can cause rust or damage, shortening its lifespan.

• Wipe the snake clean with an old rag or cloth. Remove all dirt, grease, and clog debris from the coil.
• Rinse it under warm water if needed. This helps wash off any hidden residue stuck in the crevices.
• Dry the entire tool thoroughly after rinsing. Moisture can cause rust and weaken the metal over time.
• Apply a light coat of lubricant to prevent rust build-up on the tool’s surface. It also ensures smooth future use.
• Store it in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight or moisture sources like sinks or basements. A sealed toolbox works well for this purpose!

Conclusion

Using a drain cleaner snake might feel tricky at first, but it’s quite simple with the right steps. It’s a great tool to tackle stubborn clogs without calling a plumber. With care and some practice, you can clear your pipes like a pro.

Always handle it safely and clean it after every use—it’ll last longer that way. If the clog won’t budge, don’t stress—call in an expert!

FAQs

What is a drain cleaner snake?

A drain cleaner snake, also called a plumber's snake or drain auger, is a coiled tool used to clear clogs in pipes and drains.

How do you use a drain snake on bathroom drains?

Insert the snake into the bathroom drain slowly. Turn the handle or crank to push it through blockages until water flows freely again.

What should I do if my drain snake won’t go any further?

If your pipe auger stops moving forward, try pulling it back slightly and turning it again. It might be stuck on an elbow or tough blockage.

Can I use an electric snake for tougher clogs?

Yes, using an electric drain snake can help with stubborn clogs in toilets or larger pipes where manual snakes struggle.

How do you clean a plumbing snake after use?

Rinse the plumber's pipe cleaner thoroughly with hot water to remove debris, then dry it completely to prevent rusting before storing it away.

Are there alternatives to using a plumbers’ auger for clearing blocked drains?

Yes, you can try boiling water, baking soda and vinegar mixtures, or even specialised chemical cleaners as alternative methods for minor blockages before reaching for your drainage tools like snakes or augers!