If you’re like most people, the words ‘snake plumbing’ probably make your skin crawl. But what if I told you that snake plumbing could save you a lot of money and hassle? It’s true!
Read on to find out more about unclogging your sink drain and toilet drain with snake.
What is a drain snake?
A drain snake, also known as an auger, is a wire or cable that is inserted into a clogged drain to clear the obstruction. The snake is rotated by a crank handle, which causes the wire to spin and pull the clog out of the drain. Drain snakes are available in different sizes, so it is important to choose the right size for the clog. If the snake is too small, it will not be able to clear the obstruction; if it is too large, it could damage the plumbing.
When using a drain snake, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. It is important to insert the snake slowly and carefully so that you do not damage the plumbing. If you encounter resistance, stop turning the crank and try pushing or pulling on the snake to see if that will free the clog. Do not force the snake if it does not move easily; this could damage the plumbing.
Can drain snakes damage pipes?
If used incorrectly, drain snakes can damage your pipes. If you have an older home with zinc-coated pipes, be careful not to use too much force when snaking the drain. You could damage the protective zinc and lead to rust and cracking. This could cause serious flooding in the future. In addition, the snake can break off pieces of metal which can add more damage. So if you’re not trained to use a drain snake, it’s best to call a professional to clog your drain properly.
Can a drain snake go around the elbow?
The drain snake needs to be the correct type to go around the elbow. There are several types of drain snakes available, and it is important to use the right one for the job. The drain snake that goes around the elbow is called a “slip-joint” drain snake. It has a flexible joint that allows it to bend around tight corners.
Do drain snakes work on toilets?
Yes! Flushing a clog through a toilet drain can be done using a drain snake. A drain snake is inserted into the bowl of the toilet and turned to push the cable down the drain. Once the clog is located, the snake is turned to pull it out. If the clog is not removed, it can be repeated until it is. Be sure to clean the snake after use.
When should a drain snake be used?
There are several times when you might need to use a drain snake. One time is when you have tried using a plunger but the clog is still not cleared. Another time is when you have tried using chemical drain cleaners but the clog is still not cleared. A drain snake can also be used to clear a clog that is causing water to back up into your sink or toilet.
How much do drain snakes cost?
The most budget-friendly type of snake is the handheld or drill-activated one. It can extend up to 25 feet and works well for small clogs near the sink or toilet. You can purchase this kind of snake for $15 to $100 on average. Machine-powered snakes are the most commonly used type of plumbing snake, and they can reach up to 50 to 75 feet. They’re perfect for residential blockages and cost an average of $250 to $1,000.
Can you rent a drain snake?
The cost of renting a drain snake varies from $30 to $80 per day, depending on the size of the machine auger. Handheld plumbing snakes can be rented for as little as $10 per day. Plumbing snakes are available for rent at places like Home Depot and Lowe’s.
If in doubt, hire a plumber
If you’re unsure about how to use a drain snake, or if the clog is in a difficult-to-reach place, it’s best to hire a professional plumber that specializes in snake plumbing. Plumbers have the training and experience to safely and effectively clear clogs from your drains. Hiring a plumber will also ensure that your drains are not damaged in the process.
