4 FAQs About Snaking a Drain

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Snaking Your Drain Can Remedy The Situation

A clogged drain can be a pain. After all, some clogs can result in hours of plumbing work. However, snaking your drain is an option that can remedy your situation.

1. When Would You Need to Snake a Drain?
Snake your drain whenever it is clogged to prevent further plumbing emergencies. For instance, when a hairball is lodged in your drain, you will want to break it up to prevent a pipe break and hiring remediation professionals. Snaking is also good for toilet clogs that cannot be fixed with a plunger.

2. What Tools Do You Need?
The main tool you will need is a snake. These can be found at any hardware store in Delray Beach, FL. If you only have a small clog close to the pipe's surface, you may be able to form a makeshift tool from a clothes hanger. Take any metal clothes hanger and straighten it out. Leave the hook in the end so that you have something to pull out the clog with. If you have a smaller pipe, you will probably want to squeeze the hook, so it fits.

3. How Do You Use a Snake?
It isn't as simple as sticking the snake into the drain and pulling out a hairball. Instead, you will need to follow the instructions that come with the tool. This generally involves twisting the tip so you can snag the debris and pull it out.

4. Does Hot Water Really Help?
If your drain is still clogged after using the snake, hot water can help break it up. Heat water in a tea kettle or other stove safe pot. Just before it starts to boil, remove it from the heat and pour it down the drain. It may take a few minutes, but it should break up stubborn clogs.
Stopped drains can be unpleasant. The best thing to do is to try snaking them. You may have to follow up this process with some hot water. This can help get your drains working again.