Is your sink taking forever to drain? Slow-draining water could be a sign of a clog deep in the pipe. Before you call in a plumber, there’s a handy tool you can try at home—a drain snake! Mr. Rooter Plumbing recommends trying it before scheduling a full plumbing repair service.
What Is a Drain Snake?
A drain snake, also known as a plumber’s snake or hand auger, is a long, flexible tool designed to insert into your pipes and break up or remove clogs. Most drain snakes are made of coiled metal wire and can bend around corners and twists in the pipe. You can find them at most hardware stores, and they are available in both manual and powered versions.
This tool is used by both homeowners and professional plumbing repair services alike. It works well for kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, and even bathtubs.
When Should You Use a Drain Snake?
Not every clog needs a snake. If your sink is draining slowly, try using hot water, baking soda, or vinegar as a first step. But if the clog keeps coming back or won’t clear at all, it’s time to bring out the snake.
Here are signs a drain snake might be needed:
- Water stands in the sink and won’t go down
- You tried a plunger, but it didn’t help.
- There’s a bad smell coming from the drain.
- You hear strange gurgling sounds when draining water.
If you notice any of these, it’s a good time to try snaking the pipe.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you start, grab these basic tools:
- Drain snake (manual or powered)
- Bucket or bowl (to catch any water)
- Rubber gloves
- Towels or rags
- Flashlight (optional, for checking under the sink)
You don’t need to be a emergency plumber in Hendersonville, TN to get this done, but having a few supplies ready will make it go more smoothly.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use a Drain Snake
Step 1: Clear Out the Area
Remove anything under the sink so you have space to work. Place your bucket underneath the P-trap (that curved pipe) in case any water spills out when you open the drain.
Step 2: Remove the P-Trap (Optional)
For deep clogs, disconnect the P-trap to get better access. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts and gently pull the pipe apart. Dump out any water or debris into the bucket.
This step isn’t always necessary, but it can be helpful if the clog is located further down the line.
Step 3: Insert the Drain Snake
Carefully feed the snake into the drain or directly into the wall pipe if you’ve removed the trap. Push it gently but firmly. You’ll feel resistance when you hit the clog. That’s your cue to stop pushing and start twisting.
Step 4: Break Up or Grab the Clog
Turn the handle on the drain snake clockwise. This motion helps the end of the snake either catch or break up the clog. Continue twisting and pushing slowly until the resistance disappears.
Sometimes you’ll pull the clog out with the snake. At other times, it breaks apart and washes away when you flush the pipe.
Step 5: Pull the Snake Out
Slowly pull the snake back out of the pipe. Be prepared for some gunk to come with it. That’s a good sign—it means you caught the clog!
Use a rag or towel to wipe off the snake as you remove it.
Step 6: Reassemble and Test
If you took apart the P-trap, put it back together now. Ensure all parts are securely fastened, but avoid overtightening. Run warm water to check the flow. If water drains smoothly, you’ve done the job right.
If it’s still backing up, repeat the process or consider calling Mr. Rooter Plumbing for professional help.
What If the Snake Doesn’t Work?
If your drain snake can’t reach the clog or doesn’t clear it, the blockage might be deeper in the system. You could be dealing with:
- Grease buildup in kitchen pipes
- Hair or soap scum stuck deep in bathroom drains.
- Tree roots in outdoor lines
At this point, calling in a plumbing repair service is the best option. A plumber has the right tools, such as motorized snakes or hydro-jetting equipment, to handle larger problems. Mr. Rooter Plumbing often helps homeowners resolve these more challenging clogs.
Keep Your Drains Flowing Smoothly
Once your sink is back to normal, here’s how to keep it that way:
- Don’t pour grease down the drain
- Use a hair catcher in bathroom sinks and tubs to prevent clogs.
- Run hot water for a minute after using the sink to help prevent clogs.
- Clean drains monthly with baking soda and vinegar
These small habits can prevent buildup and keep things draining like they should.
When It’s Time to Call in the Pros
If you’ve tried snaking the drain and still have issues—or if you’re just not comfortable doing it yourself—it’s fine to call a professional. Mr. Rooter Plumbing has helped thousands of homeowners fix stubborn clogs, and they’re always ready to take on the job. Whether it’s a tough clog, a damaged pipe, or something deeper in the line, a trained plumber can spot the issue fast.
So, if your drain is still giving you trouble, don’t stress. Just reach out to a trusted team like Mr. Rooter Plumbing and let them take care of it. Keeping your sink working properly is worth the call.
