Often referred to as a “toilet jack”, a plumbing snake is a flexible auger that is used to clear clogs from plumbing pipes. The snake is usually reserved for more difficult clogs.
Unclog A Drain
Using a plumbing snake is a great way to unclog a drain. These snakes are designed to handle blockages within the home, but they are also versatile enough to remove a clog that is outside of the home.
The first step in using a plumbing snake is to find the clog. This is usually found in a p-trap, which is a bend in the pipe beneath a sink. To get rid of the clog, you’ll need to insert the snake into the drain and turn it in a clockwise direction. This will allow the snake to chop up the clog.
You’ll also need to get a good grasp of how to use the snake. To do this, you’ll want to grip the handle of the snake about two inches from the drain’s mouth. This allows you to control the motion and get a good sense of the clog.
It’s also a good idea to use protective rubber gloves when snaking a drain. This will prevent you from accidentally injuring yourself.
Clear A Clogged Toilet
Using a plumbing snake can help clear a clogged toilet. However, there are other more effective methods of clearing your clogged toilet.
One of the most commonly used methods is to simply flush the toilet. This may work if the obstruction is just a small clog, but it won’t get the job done if the clog is deep or has a large build up.
Another method is to use a wet/dry vacuum to clear a clogged toilet. To use a wet/dry vacuum, you will need to empty the toilet bowl, insert a vacuum hose into the toilet drain, and wrap an old towel around the hose. Once you’ve completed this step, wait for the vacuum to suck out the clog.
While a wet/dry vacuum is an effective way to clear a clogged toilet, you should also check for obstructions in the toilet bowl. If the clog is hard to remove, you may need to call a plumber.
Prevent A Clogged Pipeline
Using a plumbing snake is a great way to clear clogs in your pipes. You’ll need to make sure you use it correctly, however, or you may damage the pipes or cause additional clogs. Here’s a quick overview of the plumbing snake.
A plumber’s snake works by pushing its cable into a drain line, which breaks up a clog. It then pushes the clog out of the drain. It can also be used to clear obstructions in a tub or shower. You can rent one by the hour for clogs that are up to 25 feet long.
Snaking the pipes can be a messy process. To avoid this, you’ll want to start below the p-trap. This is a curving piece of pipe beneath a sink. It prevents sewer gases from rising through the sink. It’s also used to keep garbage from entering the drain.
You can also use an auger to clear clogs. An auger is a metal pipe with a handle on one end. You’ll want to set the handle near the entrance of the drain. It’s important that the auger is not too wide for the pipe, however.
Avoid Damaging The Snake
Using a plumbing snake can clear clogs in the drains of your home, but you need to use it correctly to avoid damaging the plumbing snake and the pipes that are in your home. It is also important to take precautions to avoid putting too much pressure on the snake or the pipe. If you are unsure how to use the snake, consult with a professional plumber for advice.
If you want to use a snake, make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage to your plumbing snake and the pipes. The instructions should also include warnings about the dangers of using a snake.
If you are using an electric snake, make sure that you wear gloves and follow the instructions. You will also need to make sure that you wear safety glasses. Once you have finished using the snake, clean the snake’s debris by removing it from the drain and placing it in a garbage can.
