Hey, there! Are you tired of dealing with clogged drains in your house? Well, I have good news for you! You can fix it yourself by using a drain snake. In this article, I will guide you on how to use a drain snake step by step.
What is a Drain Snake?
A drain snake, also known as a plumbing snake, is a long and flexible wire that is used to remove clogs in pipes. It has a coiled-up auger at the end that helps to break up the blockage and push it through the drain.
Types of Drain Snakes
There are two types of drain snakes: handheld and electric. Handheld drain snakes are manually operated, and you need to crank the wire to move it through the pipe. Electric drain snakes, on the other hand, are powered by electricity and do not require manual operation. They are ideal for larger clogs.
Steps to Use a Drain Snake
Now that you know what a drain snake is and the types available, let us get to the steps on how to use it.
Step 1: Gear Up
Before you start using the drain snake, ensure you have the right gear to protect yourself. Wear protective gloves, safety glasses, and old clothes that you do not mind getting dirty.
Step 2: Prepare the Drain Snake
Insert the auger end of the drain snake into the drain until you feel resistance. Turn the handle clockwise to push the auger further down the drain. Keep cranking until you reach the clog.
Step 3: Break Up the Clog
Once you have reached the clog, crank the drain snake a few times to break up the blockage. Be gentle and do not force it. The auger should be able to break up the clog with ease.
Step 4: Retrieve the Debris
Once the drain snake has broken up the clog, retract it from the drain. You should be able to retrieve the debris that has been dislodged from the pipe.
Step 5: Test the Drain
After retrieving the debris, test the drain by running water down it. If the water flows smoothly, then the clog has been successfully cleared. If not, repeat the process until the drain runs smoothly.
Tips on Using a Drain Snake
To make the process of using a drain snake more effective and efficient, here are some tips you can follow:
Tip 1: Use the Right Size Drain Snake
Ensure that you are using the right size of drain snake for your drain. Using a too small or too large drain snake can result in damage to your pipes.
Tip 2: Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
Avoid using chemical drain cleaners before using a drain snake. These cleaners can be harmful to your pipes and can make the blockage worse.
Tip 3: Use a Bucket to Collect Debris
Place a bucket under the drain to collect the debris that comes out of the pipe. This will make cleanup easier and prevent the debris from clogging other drains.
Conclusion
Using a drain snake is an effective way to clear clogs in your drains. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the tips provided, you can clear your drains and avoid the expense of calling a plumber. Happy snaking!
