How to Use a Snake Drain: DIY Tips - FS Drainage

If you're grappling with a stubborn clog that just won't budge with traditional plunging, it might be time to escalate your DIY plumbing efforts by learning how to use a drain snake. Also known as a plumber's snake, this tool can be incredibly effective at reaching deeper into your plumbing system to remove clogs that other methods can't touch.

Not only is mastering the use of a drain snake a cost-effective skill for maintaining clear drains, but it can also provide timely resolution to blockages, preventing potential water damage and keeping your plumbing in top condition. So, where to begin? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of using a drain snake, offering DIY tips to tackle those stubborn clogs with confidence.

Using a Drain Snake: Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and materials to ensure a smooth and successful unclogging process:

The Right Type of Drain Snakes

Just like with any other household tool, there are various types of drain snakes available on the UK market, including hand-held models, drill attachments, and larger, more professional options. For most household clogs, a hand-held drain snake or a drill attachment model will suffice.

Safety Equipment

Next up, you need to think about safety equipment - after all, safety should always be a priority when conducting DIY plumbing, especially if you’re not a seasoned professional! Gloves are essential to protect your hands from debris and potential sharp objects within the drain, and eye protection is also recommended to guard against any splashing.

Bucket and Towels

Finally, you’ll also want to have a bucket and towels on hand to manage any water that spills or is retrieved from the drain - this will help keep the area clean and dry as you work.

Step-by-Step Guide on Using a Drain Snake

So, how do you use a drain snake? Here’s our easy-to-follow, step-by-step method:

Preparing the Area

Start by clearing the area around the drain to provide easy access. If there's standing water, remove as much as possible with a bucket before proceeding.

Inserting the Drain Snake

Carefully insert the tip of the drain snake into the drain, feeding it in slowly, but make sure to avoid forcing the snake, as this can cause damage to your pipes.

Turning and Manoeuvring

Once the snake is inserted, begin turning the handle, which will advance the snake further into the drain. Continue feeding and turning the snake into the drain until you feel resistance, indicating a blockage.

Locating and Breaking the Clog

When you encounter resistance, don’t apply direct force - instead rotate the snake against the clog. This is going to help you either break up the clog or hook it so it can be removed, but do note that it might require several attempts to fully clear the blockage.

Retrieving the Drain Snake

Next, carefully withdraw the snake from the drain, cleaning off any debris that it might have collected. Tip: This is where the bucket and towels come in handy - use them to catch and dispose of any material or nasty gunk removed from the drain.

Flushing the Drain

After removing the clog, flush the drain with hot water to ensure it's completely clear and to wash away any remaining debris.

For more stubborn clogs or if you're unsure about using a drain snake yourself, it might be worth considering professional assistance. For instance, if you're dealing with the effects of bleach on drains, it’s essential to understand how certain chemicals can impact your plumbing.

What Kinds of Clogs Can I Unblock with a Drain Snake?

It’s important to note that not all drain clogs will work with a drain snake. Typically, this type of tool works best with the following blockages:

• Hair and Soap Scum
• Food Debris
• Small Objects and Debris

For larger blockages, it’s usually best to hire professional drain jetting services. This method - when performed by professionals - can ensure a more comprehensive cleaning for your drains, without inflicting further damage or making a blockage worse.

Maintenance and Preventive Tips for Clear Drains

Regular Drain Snaking

Incorporating drain snaking into your regular home maintenance schedule can help catch and clear small clogs before they become problematic; try doing this once or twice a year as preventive maintenance, and you’ll likely find that your drains flow much more smoothly.

Safe Disposal Practices

To minimise the risk of clogs:

• Always use a strainer in kitchen and bathroom sinks to catch hair, food particles, and other debris.
• Avoid pouring grease, oil, and certain food items down the drain as they can solidify and cause blockages.
• Run hot water through the sink after each use to help keep oils in food products running down the drain, rather than building up on the interior surface of pipes.

When to Call a Professional

While a drain snake is a powerful tool in your DIY plumbing arsenal, there are times when a professional touch is needed - not just to remove the clog but also prevent extending any damage to your water system. Here are a few scenarios where you should consider calling in the experts:

• Persistent Clogs: If you've attempted to clear a clog with a drain snake without success, or if the clog keeps returning, it's time to call in professional plumbers. Persistent clogs may indicate a deeper or more complex issue that requires specialised equipment and expertise to resolve, and you’re unlikely to be able to resolve this on your own.
• Multiple Blocked Drains: If you notice that more than one drain in your home is slow or clogged, this could be a sign of a problem in your main sewer line, and these types of issues are best handled by professional plumbers who can conduct a thorough inspection and cleaning of your sewer system.
• Damage to Pipes: If you suspect that your pipes are damaged or if you accidentally cause damage while attempting to unclog a drain, professional repair services are essential. Attempting to fix damaged pipes on your own can lead to further issues and potential water damage, so make sure to enlist the help of a trained plumbing service to resolve the issue promptly.