When faced with a clogged drain, many homeowners reach for chemical cleaners. However, these products can damage pipes and pose risks to plumbers if professional help is needed later.
A safer and more effective solution is using a drain snake, also known as a drum auger. These flexible, coiled wires are designed to navigate through pipes and break up clogs without damaging the plumbing system. In this video and guide, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to use a drain snake to clear stubborn clogs in showers and bathtubs.
How Drain Snakes Work
Drain snakes work by physically breaking up and removing the obstruction in the pipe. As you feed the snake into the drain, its flexible cable navigates through the pipe’s twists and turns. When it encounters a clog, you can rotate the snake to break up the blockage or hook onto it for removal. The effectiveness of a drain snake depends on the type of clog and the tool’s design.
Types of Drain Snakes
Several types of drain snakes are available for different applications. They all work essentially the same way but are suitable for specific situations.
- Manual drain snakes: These hand-operated tools are ideal for small household clogs.
- Electric drain snakes: Powered by a motor, these are more suitable for tougher clogs or professional use.
- Sink snakes: Smaller and more flexible, these are perfect for kitchen and bathroom sink drains.
- Toilet augers: These are specially designed to clear toilet clogs without damaging the porcelain.
Preparing to Snake a Drain
Proper preparation can prevent additional problems and ensure a smooth process. When using a drain snake, always wear protective gloves and eye protection and properly ventilate the work area. Keep the work area clean and dry to prevent slips and falls
Tools You’ll Need
To snake a clogged drain, you’ll need:
- A drum auger or drain snake
- Protective gloves
- Safety goggles
- Towels or rags for cleanup
- A bucket for collecting debris
Snaking a Shower Drain
Shower drains are common culprits for clogs, often due to hair and soap scum buildup. When snaking a shower drain, start by removing the shower drain cover. This may require unscrewing it or simply lifting it off. If the drain cover is stuck, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry it loose.
Once the drain cover is removed, follow these steps:
- Insert the end of the snake into the drain opening.
- Slowly feed the snake into the drain, turning the handle clockwise.
- Continue feeding the snake until you feel resistance, which indicates you’ve reached the clog.
- Gently work the snake back and forth while continuing to turn the handle.
- Once you feel the clog breaking up, retract the snake while continuing to turn it.
As Trethewey demonstrates in the video above, hair is often the primary culprit in shower drain clogs. After retracting the snake, clean off any debris it has collected. Run hot water down the drain to ensure the clog has been fully cleared. Regularly cleaning the drain cover and using a strainer can prevent future clogs.
Snaking a Bathtub Drain
Bathtub drains present a unique challenge due to their design. To properly snake a bathtub drain:
- Locate the overflow plate, typically found near the top of the tub.
- Remove the screws holding the overflow plate in place.
- Carefully remove the plate to expose the overflow pipe.
- Insert the snake through the overflow opening and feed it into the drain. This method bypasses the trap, allowing you to directly access clogs in the main drainpipe.
- Follow the same process as with the shower drain, working the snake until you feel the clog clear.
This technique ensures that the snake reaches the clog without causing damage.
Dealing with Stubborn Clogs
Sometimes, a clog may be particularly stubborn and resist initial clearing attempts. In these cases, there are additional steps to attempt.
Use Different Snake Attachments
Many drain snakes come with interchangeable heads designed for different types of clogs:
- Corkscrew attachments for grabbing and pulling out debris
- Cutting heads for breaking up tough blockages
- Retrieving tools for removing solid objects
If your initial attempt doesn’t clear the clog completely, try different attachments. Using the right attachment can make a significant difference.
For particularly stubborn clogs, you may need to combine snaking with other declogging methods:
- Use a plunger to create suction and loosen the clog before snaking.
- Pour hot water down the drain after snaking to help flush away any remaining debris.
- Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water to help dissolve organic matter.
When to Call a Professional
While many clogs can be cleared with a drain snake, some situations require professional help:
- Persistent clogs that resist DIY methods
- Foul odors or gurgling sounds coming from drains
- Multiple drains clogging simultaneously, indicating a main line issue
- Visible water backing up in sinks or tubs
In these cases, a professional plumber may need more advanced tools or techniques to address the problem. Knowing when to seek professional help can save time and prevent further damage.
