3 Tips for Snaking a Drain

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

With the right tools, tactics, and practice, you can get your drains cleared on your own in no time.

3 Tips for Snaking a Drain

Whether you find a clogged kitchen sink or a backed-up shower drain, you are probably not going to be pleased. The last thing you want to do is spending hours trying to get the plumbing flowing again. Fortunately, with the right tools, tactics, and practice, you can get your drains cleared on your own in no time.

1. Get the Tools for the Job
To snake your drain, you are going to need a snake. These are available in any hardware store in Woodinville, WA, and should help you avoid a pipe break or other disaster. That being said, most clogs can be remedied with a metal coat hanger found in most closets. To use this, disassemble the coat hanger, so it becomes a fairly straight strip. Be sure to leave the original hook shape on one end so you can catch the debris that is causing your frustration. If you have slender pipes, you will want to squeeze the hook and make it narrower so it will fit.

2. Add Hot Water
If your drain is clogged after trying to use the snake dry, run boiling water through the pipe. Fill a tea kettle and bring it to a boil on the stove. Then, slowly pour the hot water down the drain. This process may take a minute, but it should help loosen the debris.

3. Add Chemicals
If snaking and hot water fail, try chemicals. Caustic soda is one chemical that will do a number of the remaining debris in your plumbing. Follow the mixing instructions on the bottle that you buy. Stir the mixture until it starts to fizz. Then, pour it down your clogged drain and wait for it to work its magic.

If you've got a stopped drain, you need to follow these tips. Otherwise, you could wind up with a disastrous situation that requires water remediation professionals to clean up. Be sure to start with a snake or coat hanger. If the clog is a tough one, you may need to add hot water or chemicals.