Step 4 · Activate the Bladder

This is the step people usually slow down on. Go finger-tight first, then a quarter turn. No rush — replay the clip whenever it helps.

While firmly holding the hose, have a helper turn on the water at the spigot, or do it yourself if it's nearby. Turn the water on to full pressure. You will feel the hose stiffen as the bladder inflates to create a seal against the pipe walls. Once sealed, a powerful jet of water will shoot from the tip of the bladder toward the clog. Hold the hose steady and let the water run for a few minutes. You may feel a jolt or a sudden slackening in the hose, which indicates the clog has broken free.