Unclog the Drain with a Snake — Use a Drain Snake to Clear the Clog
Part of project
Clogged Shower Drain: How to Clear Standing Water · Step 3 of 3
In this video
To clear the clogged drain, use a motorized drain snake. Feed the snake's cable down into the drain pipe until it meets resistance, then activate the motor to rotate the cable and break up the clog. The plumber also locates and opens an outside cleanout to verify the snake has passed through and to check the condition of the main line, noting that the pipe has a bad pitch (belly) which is holding water.
Goal: Drain Unclogging
- Operating a motorized drain snake can be dangerous. Follow all manufacturer safety instructions and wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
Used in this video
- Motorized Drain Snake (Plumbing Snake Type: Powered, Head Type: Bulb auger) — Clearing the clog in the main drain line.
- Pliers (Pliers Type: Channel-lock) — Opening the outside cleanout cap.
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FAQs
Do I need a special type of plunger for a shower drain?
Yes, a cup plunger (like THEWORKS 5 in. Red Bellows Plunger) is ideal for flat drains like showers and sinks, as it creates a better seal than a toilet plunger. Ensure the plunger fully covers the drain opening to generate effective suction.
What should I do if the drain snake gets stuck or won't reach the clog?
If your drain snake gets stuck, try rotating it counter-clockwise while gently pulling back to dislodge it; avoid forcing it. If the clog is beyond the 25 ft reach of your snake, or you still can't clear it, the issue might be deeper and could require professional assistance.
The water is still draining slowly after I've plunged and used the drain snake. What did I miss?
A slow drain often indicates that the clog wasn't fully removed or there's still a partial blockage. Re-plunge vigorously or re-insert the drain snake to ensure all debris is broken up. Flushing with hot water multiple times can help clear any remaining residue.
Are there any methods to try before buying a drain snake, or for preventing future clogs?
Before using a snake, you can try pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain, or a baking soda and vinegar solution (wait 30 mins, then flush with hot water). To prevent future clogs, regularly use a hair catcher over your drain and flush with hot water after showers.
TranscriptHide
Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.
Unclog the Drain with a Snake — Use a Drain Snake to Clear the Clog
Part of project
Clogged Shower Drain: How to Clear Standing Water · Step 3 of 3
In this video
To clear the clogged drain, use a motorized drain snake. Feed the snake's cable down into the drain pipe until it meets resistance, then activate the motor to rotate the cable and break up the clog. The plumber also locates and opens an outside cleanout to verify the snake has passed through and to check the condition of the main line, noting that the pipe has a bad pitch (belly) which is holding water.
Goal: Drain Unclogging
- Operating a motorized drain snake can be dangerous. Follow all manufacturer safety instructions and wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
Used in this video
- Motorized Drain Snake (Plumbing Snake Type: Powered, Head Type: Bulb auger) — Clearing the clog in the main drain line.
- Pliers (Pliers Type: Channel-lock) — Opening the outside cleanout cap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special type of plunger for a shower drain?
Yes, a cup plunger (like THEWORKS 5 in. Red Bellows Plunger) is ideal for flat drains like showers and sinks, as it creates a better seal than a toilet plunger. Ensure the plunger fully covers the drain opening to generate effective suction.
What should I do if the drain snake gets stuck or won't reach the clog?
If your drain snake gets stuck, try rotating it counter-clockwise while gently pulling back to dislodge it; avoid forcing it. If the clog is beyond the 25 ft reach of your snake, or you still can't clear it, the issue might be deeper and could require professional assistance.
The water is still draining slowly after I've plunged and used the drain snake. What did I miss?
A slow drain often indicates that the clog wasn't fully removed or there's still a partial blockage. Re-plunge vigorously or re-insert the drain snake to ensure all debris is broken up. Flushing with hot water multiple times can help clear any remaining residue.
Are there any methods to try before buying a drain snake, or for preventing future clogs?
Before using a snake, you can try pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain, or a baking soda and vinegar solution (wait 30 mins, then flush with hot water). To prevent future clogs, regularly use a hair catcher over your drain and flush with hot water after showers.
Video Transcript
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Video Transcript
(162 characters)Transcript may be auto-generated and contain errors.