Insert the Powered Drain Snake — Auger the Vent
Part of project
How to Clear a Clogged Plumbing Vent Stack on Your Roof · Step 5 of 6
In this video
When plunging fails to clear the drain, the next step is to use a powered drain snake, also known as a drain auger. Switch to a more protective pair of gloves. Carefully insert the flexible metal cable of the drain snake into the sink drain opening, feeding it down until you feel resistance, which indicates you have reached the clog.
Goal: Drain Unclogging (Standard)
- For many bathroom sinks, you may need to remove the pop-up stopper to get the drain snake head into the pipe.
- The metal snake can scratch the surface of a porcelain or ceramic sink. Feed it in carefully.
Used in this video
- Powered Drain Snake (brand: Milwaukee, Tool Type: Snake/Auger, Power Source: Electric) — To physically break up and remove a stubborn drain clog.
- Work Gloves (Gloves Material: Rubber) — To protect hands while operating the powered snake.
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FAQs
What are the most important safety precautions I need to take before climbing on my roof to clear a vent stack?
Prioritize safety by always using a sturdy, properly secured ladder and ensuring it extends at least three feet above the roofline. Wear slip-resistant shoes, like the Shoes For Crews listed, and work gloves for better grip. Never attempt this project in wet, icy, or extremely windy conditions, and consider having a spotter on the ground.
My vent stack still seems clogged after flushing it with the garden hose. What should I do next, and how do I know if it's truly clear?
If flushing doesn't work, proceed to use a plumber's drum auger, such as The Plumber's Choice 25 ft. Drum Auger. Carefully feed the auger down the vent until you feel resistance, then work it to break up the clog. You'll know it's clear when the auger passes freely and you hear water flowing freely down the stack, or by running water in a fixture below and listening for improved drainage and no gurgling.
Do I really need a specialized drum auger, or can I use a different type of drain snake for stubborn clogs in the vent stack?
A specialized drum auger, like the 25 ft. or 50 ft. options listed, is highly recommended due to its length and ability to navigate bends in the vent pipe effectively. Smaller, shorter drain snakes might not reach deep enough or be flexible enough for stubborn clogs. Ensure any tool you use is robust enough not to break or get lost in the pipe.
The project is rated 'intermediate' and estimated at 4 hours. What specific challenges or preparations should I be aware of that contribute to this rating and time commitment?
The 'intermediate' rating stems from the need to work safely at heights, potentially handle specialized tools like a drum auger, and accurately diagnose the clog. The 4-hour estimate accounts for ladder setup, locating the vent, potentially multiple flushing/auger attempts, and thorough cleanup. Be prepared for the process to take longer if the clog is exceptionally stubborn or difficult to reach.
Insert the Powered Drain Snake — Auger the Vent
Part of project
How to Clear a Clogged Plumbing Vent Stack on Your Roof · Step 5 of 6
In this video
When plunging fails to clear the drain, the next step is to use a powered drain snake, also known as a drain auger. Switch to a more protective pair of gloves. Carefully insert the flexible metal cable of the drain snake into the sink drain opening, feeding it down until you feel resistance, which indicates you have reached the clog.
Goal: Drain Unclogging (Standard)
- For many bathroom sinks, you may need to remove the pop-up stopper to get the drain snake head into the pipe.
- The metal snake can scratch the surface of a porcelain or ceramic sink. Feed it in carefully.
Used in this video
- Powered Drain Snake (brand: Milwaukee, Tool Type: Snake/Auger, Power Source: Electric) — To physically break up and remove a stubborn drain clog.
- Work Gloves (Gloves Material: Rubber) — To protect hands while operating the powered snake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important safety precautions I need to take before climbing on my roof to clear a vent stack?
Prioritize safety by always using a sturdy, properly secured ladder and ensuring it extends at least three feet above the roofline. Wear slip-resistant shoes, like the Shoes For Crews listed, and work gloves for better grip. Never attempt this project in wet, icy, or extremely windy conditions, and consider having a spotter on the ground.
My vent stack still seems clogged after flushing it with the garden hose. What should I do next, and how do I know if it's truly clear?
If flushing doesn't work, proceed to use a plumber's drum auger, such as The Plumber's Choice 25 ft. Drum Auger. Carefully feed the auger down the vent until you feel resistance, then work it to break up the clog. You'll know it's clear when the auger passes freely and you hear water flowing freely down the stack, or by running water in a fixture below and listening for improved drainage and no gurgling.
Do I really need a specialized drum auger, or can I use a different type of drain snake for stubborn clogs in the vent stack?
A specialized drum auger, like the 25 ft. or 50 ft. options listed, is highly recommended due to its length and ability to navigate bends in the vent pipe effectively. Smaller, shorter drain snakes might not reach deep enough or be flexible enough for stubborn clogs. Ensure any tool you use is robust enough not to break or get lost in the pipe.
The project is rated 'intermediate' and estimated at 4 hours. What specific challenges or preparations should I be aware of that contribute to this rating and time commitment?
The 'intermediate' rating stems from the need to work safely at heights, potentially handle specialized tools like a drum auger, and accurately diagnose the clog. The 4-hour estimate accounts for ladder setup, locating the vent, potentially multiple flushing/auger attempts, and thorough cleanup. Be prepared for the process to take longer if the clog is exceptionally stubborn or difficult to reach.