Clogged Drain?: The Rundown on Drain Snakes

Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues in homes. Often times, homeowners will use DIY tools or techniques to solve clogs in their kitchen and bathroom in some cases. However, when built-up blockages occur, the best decision is to work with a licensed plumber at Total Mechanical Systems that can professionally clean your clogged drain.

The following is essential information that every homeowner needs to know about drain cleaning, including how they work and how to determine when your home needs a drain cleaning.

When your tub, toilet, or sink drain becomes clogged, people typically reach for a drain snake to clear the clog. Snaking, which is also known as cabling, involves inserting a long, thin, flexible auger into your drain pipe. The drain snake contains a metal coil which is twisted downward until it can dislodge or hook onto a blockage and remove it.

Manual or electrical drain snakes can be found at your local hardware stores. However, if you have little experience cleaning drains, you are running the risk of damaging your pipes.

If you visit a hardware store, you’re likely to see different types of drain snakes, sometimes called augers, on the shelf. Which one you should buy? Each type of drain snake is designed for a specific purpose. Some common types you might find include:

• Manual cable snake: The most basic option is a manual snake, also sometimes called a top snake or drum snake. This type of snake typically comes in 25- and 50-foot options. A basic manual snake is made of cable with a hook at the end. You simply feed it into the drain line and twist it to get a hold of the clog before pulling it back. Some models use a canister to hold the coiled-up cable so you can only pull out the length of cable you need. Because it is manually operated, this type of snake is one of the most affordable options.
• Flat tape snake: An option to consider if you have a clog in a narrow pipe (smaller than 2 inches in diameter) is a flat tape snake. This type of drain snake is similar to a manual cable snake, but flatter. Another difference is that many flat tape snakes are made to push the clog forward rather than hook onto it and pull it up.
• Power snake: Power, or motorized, snakes are another option to consider. These snakes hook onto motors so you don’t need to use elbow grease to operate them. Many models are designed to attach to a power tool head, like a drill. These snakes can clear tougher clogs than manual options.
• Toilet auger: When you have a toilet clog, the right snake to use is a toilet auger, aka a water closet auger. Toilet augers come in both manual and powered options. They work well for toilets since they are made from an extra-flexible cable. They are also designed with plastic and rubber covers so they are less likely to scratch the inside of the bowl.

The price of a drain snake might also influence your decision. In most cases, you’re better off spending a bit more for a more reliable snake. You may also be able to rent a drain snake instead of buying one.

There are several ways you can unclog a drain, so don’t automatically lose hope if using a drain snake doesn’t work. Usually, if the drain snake does not do the job of unclogging a drain, it is time to call in the professionals.

A licensed plumber can use their expertise to assess the situation, diagnose the problem and then fix it. The drain augers that plumbers have access to more heavy-duty than the kinds you can buy at the store, so they may be able to clear clogs your drain snake can’t. Having a drain snaked tends to be a pretty affordable service, so don’t hesitate to call in the pros when needed.

Contact Total Mechanical Systems for Your Drain Cleaning Needs

At Total Mechanical Systems, we know how inconvenient a drain clog can be — especially a stubborn clog you can’t clear on your own. Fortunately, Total Mechanical Systems of Connecticut is just a phone call away if you need professional help clearing a drain. One of our licensed plumbers can take care of the issue swiftly so you can get back to normal and enjoy a functioning plumbing system. Contact Us today for assistance.