What is a plumbing snake?
A plumbing snake is a tool that you can use to get rid of clogs that block piping and drains. It looks like a similar uncoiled spring on one end and a handle on the other. As you use the plumbing snake, it uncoils down the drain, mainly reaching the obstruction that is blocking the piping and can be the reason for the backup.
Plumbing snakes are generally used when the clog is too huge for a plunger to free. These tools are much stronger than plungers, but they are quite trickier to use. Plumbing snakes can be used on tub and shower drains, bathroom sinks and kitchen sinks. Toilets need a particular toilet snake, as it is unsafe to use a general plumbing snake for these clogs.
How to Use a Plumbing Snake on a Drain
Begin by removing the P-trap or just positioning the snake’s coiled spring over the drain. You will find the P-trap just beneath the sink. You can use a wrench to get rid of this curved pipe, or you can take it off by hand. There is a best chance that you will find the blockage here.
Place the auger in the pipe and begin uncoiling it. Move at a slow and powerful pace to avoid damaging the walls of the pipe. When continued movement becomes hard, you have placed the obstruction. Toggle the auger back and forth to stretch trapped materials. You should continue extending and moving the snake until all resistance ceases. When you retract your drain snake, some or all of the jam may come with it. You can use a drop cloth or old towels to reject making a mess.
Why Drain Cleaning Is Different From Using a Snake
There is a big difference between cleaning and clearing a drain. When drain snakes work, the fixtures they have treated can still be highly dirty. Drain cleaning is a full, whole-house solution that removes build-up of slime, soap scum, grease, sediment and more. It eliminates bad odours and gets waste and wastewater moving at an acceptable pace and in the best direction.
Professional drain cleaning like Jaetech Plumbing accomplishes all this and more, without posing the risk of pipe damage and without voiding any insurance warranties or policies. Techniques like hydro-steaming or hydro-jetting are both minimally invasive and very effective.
When to call Jaetech Plumbing
While DIY drain snaking is a feasible option for many homeowners, there are conditions where it is best to call in a professional plumber:
Extreme blockages: if the clog is deep within the plumbing system or highly stubborn, it is excellent to leave it to the experts. Professional plumbers have the experience and equipment to manage hard clogs.
Complex plumbing systems: if you are not familiar with your home’s plumbing layout or have a hard system, attempting DIY snaking can lead to unplanned consequences, such as destroying pipes.
Safety concerns: Some drain clogs can be caused by more important problems, like a tree root intrusion or a collapsed pipe. These conditions need professional assessment to ensure safety and the right repair.
