We’ve all been there. Ramming a plunger in our toilet bowl to no avail. Luckily, such a device exists for when your plunger just won’t cut it. That is the plumbing snake. The plumbing snake does not use pressure like a plunger to unclog drains. Instead, it is a metal cable that is forced into the clog to dislodge it. In this post, we will talk about when it may be necessary to use plumbing snakes, the types of plumbing snakes, and instructions on how to use them.
When to Use a Plumbing Snake
A plumbing snake is usually required when a plunger doesn’t suffice. If you have tried to unclog a toilet or sink several times with nothing to show for it, it may be time to bring out the plumbing snake. This usually indicates larger clogs or clogs with more substance (grease and other hard objects).
The Two Types of Plumbing Snakes
Plumbing Snakes, or augers, come in many shapes and sizes. Technically a piece of cable could be used as a plumbing snake if you’re resourceful enough.
That said, there are two main types of plumbing snakes. They are the cable auger and the closet auger.
The cable auger shelters an coild, unexposed length of wire that extends when a crank is turned.
The closet auger has a cable that is sheathed in a long metal or plastic encasing that is more traditionally used for toilets. The user then turns a crank, pushing the wire out and unclogging the drain. The biggest difference is the lack of a long encasing for the cable auger and the fact that closet augers are usually only used for toilets.
How to Use a Plumbing Snake
Although similar in function, the cable auger and closet auger operate a little differently.
How to Use a Cable Auger
- When using a cable auger, the first step is to place the coiled end into the drain and spin the crank to release more cable.
- You should keep spinning until you feel significant resistance as this likely indicates that you have reached the clog.
- Next, you should wiggle the snake to dislodge or break up the clog.
- Once this is done, you can remove the snake by turning the crank the opposite way until it is out of the drain.
- Flush the drain with hot water to push any remnants of debris out of your pipes.
How to Use a Closet Auger
- Insert the cable sheath of the closet auger into the drain (this is usually used for toilets), with the tip up.
- Slowly turn the crank to push the snake farther into the drain. Turn until the entire cable has been pushed out.
- Then slowly turn the crank the opposite way. This should dislodge any clog and you may pull debris back up on the tip of the snake.
- Flush the toilet and see if the water recedes. If it does not, try again two more times or until the drain is unclogged.
If a Plumbing Snake Doesn’t Work, Call Denson Plumbing
If you find yourself getting no progress with your plumbing snake, it may indicate a problem that requires the hands of a professional. The experts at Denson Plumbing have seen it all and there is no plumbing problem that we can’t fix. Whether you have a pesky toilet that just won’t unclog or you need to completely replace your pipes, we have the skills required to get the job done. GIve us a call or fill out our online form for more information on all of our plumbing services.