Table of Contents
Can a drain snake make a clog worse?
If you have a clogged pipe, a drain snake is a simple and cheap tool you can use to fix it. These are advertised as devices that anyone can use to unclog a drain. But if used improperly, drain augers could make the clog worse. You could jam the obstruction in there tighter, or worse, do damage to your pipes.
How do you unclog a drain with a snake?
Pour 3/4 of a gallon of cold water into a mop bucket, and then add 3 cups of caustic soda. Stir the mixture well, and it will soon begin to fizz. Next, pour it into the clogged drain and leave for 20-30 minutes, then flush it with pure hot water – repeat as necessary.
How do you unclog a drain you can’t snake?
Most minor sink clogs can be cleared with a plunger. Partially fill the sink with water, then start plunging. Vigorously work the plunger up and down several times before quickly pulling it off the drain opening. If plunging doesn’t work, grab the cable auger and go to work under the sink.
How long does it take to snake a drain?
How Long Does It Take To Snake A Drain? Plumbers take about five minutes to snake a drain for clogs located near the tub, toilet, or sink. Main line sewer clogs can take hours to snake, depending on the length and number of pipes affected.
Can snaking a drain damage pipes?
When a drain snake is inserted into a pipe, the end may flop around, scratching the pipe. A drain snake used with too much force being can scratch a zinc pipe and damage the coating. This can lead to cracks or rusting in the pipes opening the door to a major problem in the future.
Can you snake PVC pipe?
PVC pipes are an improvement over cast-iron pipes, because they have smooth walls that don’t allow debris to cling, so if you have to clear a clogged drain deep in the pipe, you can usually do it with a plunger or drain snake.
How do you unclog a severely clogged drain?
Simply pour some hot water down your clogged drain and follow it up with equal parts baking soda and vinegar (baking soda first), cover the drain with a plug if you have one, let it sit for 20-30 minutes, then follow it up with more hot water to clear the clog.
Can I snake a drain myself?
For smaller clogs, snaking your own drain is possible. Routine, minor sink clogs from hairballs or food remnants are typically located in the U-shaped trap directly below the sink or only a few feet deeper in the drainpipe. They may be cleared by using a light-gauge, hand-operated auger.
What does a plumbing snake look like?
A plumbing auger or plumbing snake is a long, flexible metal cable with a small, uncoiled spring on one end and a handle on the other. The auger head on the snake looks like a corkscrew. Home plumber’s snakes are usually around 50 feet long.
Why pour hydrogen peroxide down drain?
Using Hydrogen Peroxide on a Clogged Drain Hydrogen peroxide dissolves organic matter to loosen and flush away debris such as skin cells. It also disinfects the drain as it works by reducing germs inside your pipes and making your sinks smell fresh and clean.
Why is my drain still clogged?
Most bathroom drain clogs result when dirt, skin flakes, and especially hair binds to soap scum on the walls of drain pipes. Over time, this gunk accumulates and reduces water flow. Troubleshooting: Remove and clean the drain stopper. If that doesn’t work, remove the drain elbow joint and clean it out.
Can’t get snake past trap?
If you suspect the snake is getting stuck in a corner, try operating the crank in reverse. This makes the head wobble back and forth, but because you’re cranking counterclockwise, it can’t collect any debris. If the bend in the pipe is really at fault, the wobbling of the head should help the snake clear the corner.
When should you call a plumber for a clogged drain?
If you have more than one drain in your home that is backing up or there is a scent of sewage in the air, it’s time to call the plumber out to snake your drain line as soon as possible. If you have tried the plunger and it isn’t clearing the drain with vigorous plunging, you will need a plumber.
How do plumbers clear blocked drains?
Hydro-Jet For the toughest of clogs, a plumber may use a hydro jet. This tool sends pressured water through pipes to break down drain build-up. This tool is often faster and more efficient than a typical drain snake. Hydro jets get rid of the clog, but they’re also effective for cleaning drains.
