Using a Drain Snake to Tackle Tough Clogs

Jan 23, 2025 | Plumbing

Do you know how helpful a drain snake can be? Few things are more frustrating than dealing with a stubbornly clogged drain. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a clogged shower, or a toilet that refuses to flush, these plumbing headaches often disrupt your daily routine. Fortunately, you don’t always need to call a professional plumber to handle the issue—tools like drain snakes and augers can save you time, hassle, and money while restoring your plumbing to good working order.

If you’re a plumber, DIY enthusiast, or homeowner looking to solve plumbing issues yourself, this guide will teach you how to effectively use a drain snake to unclog drains and keep your pipes flowing smoothly.

A plumber using a drain snake


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What is a Drain Snake (or Drain Auger)?

A drain snake, also known as a plumber’s snake or drain auger, is a handheld tool designed to clear clogs in pipes. It consists of a long, flexible metal cable with a coiled end that is inserted into the drain to break up or retrieve blockages.

Drain snakes are particularly effective for removing hair, grease buildup, and other debris that may be causing slow drainage or complete clogs.

They come in various sizes, ranging from small, manually-operated models for household use to larger, motorized versions for professional plumbing tasks. Using a drain snake can be a cost-effective and efficient solution for maintaining your home’s plumbing system.

What is a Drain Auger?

A drain auger is a specialized plumbing tool designed to tackle more challenging clogs that a standard drain snake may not be able to handle. While similar in concept to a drain snake, a drain auger typically features a sturdier and more durable cable, making it ideal for clearing blockages in larger pipes or deeper within the plumbing system.

These tools often come with a crank handle or motorized mechanism to provide extra force and precision when navigating through tough obstructions. Drain augers are commonly used in both residential and commercial settings to address persistent clogs caused by roots, sediment buildup, or other hard-to-remove debris.

By utilizing a drain auger, homeowners and professionals can effectively restore proper water flow and extend the lifespan of their plumbing systems

While often used interchangeably, the terms “drain snake” and “drain auger” technically refer to different tools. For example:

  • Drain Auger: These tools are heavier and more durable, making them better suited for tougher clogs in larger pipes.
  • Drain Snake (or plumbing snake): These are lighter, smaller, and are ideal for minor blockages in sinks, bathtubs, and showers.
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The Key Types of Drain Snakes

Drain snakes come in a variety of types, each designed to handle specific plumbing needs and scenarios. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the right tool for the job:

1. Handheld Drain Snake

Handheld drain snakes are the most common and versatile type, ideal for smaller, simpler clogs in sinks, bathtubs, or shower drains. They feature a compact design with a coiled cable and a hand crank, making them easy to use for DIY plumbing tasks. These snakes are perfect for removing hair, soap scum, and small debris close to the surface of the drain.

2. Toilet Auger

A toilet auger, sometimes referred to as a closet auger, is specifically designed to clear clogs from toilets. Its shape is tailored to fit through the toilet’s curved pipes without damaging the porcelain. Equipped with a protective sleeve over the cable, this tool helps prevent scratches while efficiently dislodging stubborn clogs caused by excessive toilet paper or foreign objects.

3. Mini-Rooter Drain Snake

The mini-rooter is a motorized drain snake suited for tougher clogs in mid-sized pipes, such as those in household drains or laundry lines. It comes with a longer, sturdier cable that can reach further into the plumbing system, making it effective for dealing with more persistent blockages. Its motorized mechanism allows for greater force and ease of use, especially in comparison to manual handheld versions.

4. Drum Auger

Drum augers are versatile tools that offer more power and cable length than standard handheld drain snakes. They are designed to tackle deeper clogs in household drains, ranging from sinks to floor drains. The cable is stored in a drum-like housing, providing convenient storage and preventing tangling. Depending on the model, drum augers may be manual or motor-powered.

5. Power Drain Snake

Power drain snakes, also known as electric or motorized drain snakes, are heavy-duty tools built for professional use. These machines are ideal for clearing blockages in larger pipes or deeper within the plumbing system. They feature a motorized cable that can easily cut through tough obstructions, such as tree roots or heavy sediment buildup. Power drain snakes are commonly used in commercial settings or for major residential plumbing repairs.

6. Flat Tape Drain Snake

Flat tape drain snakes are designed for narrow pipes and are often used in situations where standard cables may get stuck or tangled. They feature a flat, ribbon-like design instead of a coiled cable, allowing them to slide through tight spaces more easily. Flat tape snakes work well for light-duty tasks, such as clearing shallow toilet or sink clogs.

7. Endoscopic Drain Snake

Endoscopic drain snakes incorporate a small camera at the tip of the cable, providing real-time visuals of the pipe’s interior. This advanced tool helps users diagnose the cause and location of blockages more accurately before attempting removal. Typically, these snakes are used by professionals in complex cases or when dealing with recurring issues.

By understanding the range of drain snakes available, you can select the most appropriate option for your plumbing needs, whether you’re a homeowner handling routine maintenance or a professional addressing more challenging clogs. Each type of drain snake serves a specific purpose, ensuring that your plumbing system remains clean and fully operational.

Common Causes of Drain Clogs

Drains can get clogged for a variety of reasons, ranging from the buildup of hair in shower drains to grease deposits in kitchen sinks. Here’s a quick list of the most frequent culprits behind a blockage:

  • Hair in showers, bathtubs, and bathroom sinks.
  • Grease and food debris in kitchen sinks.
  • Tree roots breaking into underground pipes.
  • Plastic or foreign objects stuck in pipes and toilets.
  • Hard water deposits causing mineral buildup.

How to Use a Drain Snake Correctly

Using a drain snake to unclog a pipe can seem intimidating, but it’s actually straightforward if you follow these steps carefully.

Step 1: Gather Tools and Prepare Your Area

Start by collecting the necessary supplies. You’ll need:

  • A drain snake or auger suited for your clog type.
  • A pair of rubber gloves to keep your hands clean and ensure a good grip.
  • A bucket to catch water or debris that clears out of the pipe.
  • Safety goggles to prevent accidental splashes.

Step 2: Access the Clogged Drain

  • Remove any visible obstructions like hair or debris near the drain trap (that U-shaped pipe found under most sinks). If accessible without breaking the sink, drain cover, or pipes, a simple plunger may be sufficient.

Step 3: Insert the Snake into the Drain

  • Carefully feed the cable into the opening while applying consistent but gentle pressure. Rotate the auger handle as you go to help twist through blockages and prevent the cable from getting stuck.

Step 4: Locate and Break the Clog

  • Once you reach the clog (you’ll feel resistance), continue to rotate the plumbing snake in place. Most tools also allow you to push slightly as your auger tip works to “chew through” obstructions.
  • Avoid excessive force, which could damage pipes or even snap the cable.

Step 5: Pull Out the Snake and Run Water

  • Slowly retract the tool, cleaning the snake’s cable as you pull it out to avoid spreading debris around.
  • Run water to see if the clog has cleared. If the drain is still sluggish, you may need to repeat the process a few times.

Step 6: Clean Up and Maintenance

Once the drain is unclogged, clean all tools thoroughly to prevent rust or buildup from forming on your plumbing snake. Store it in a dry place to ensure it stays in good working order for your next use.

Drain Snake vs Chemical Drain Cleaners

While chemical cleaners can sometimes unclog minor obstructions, they often corrode plumbing materials like plastic or metal pipes. These chemicals can also be harsh on the environment and are not always effective against dense or persistent blockages.

Using a drain snake is a safer, more environmentally friendly alternative that offers hands-on control over the unclogging process without risking long-term damage to your plumbing system.

When Should You Call a Professional?

DIY fixes using a plumbing snake or auger are cost-effective solutions for most drain clogs, but there are situations where professional intervention is the better option.

  • Tree roots breaking into underground pipes often require specialized tools.
  • Persistent clogs that keep returning despite frequent clearing efforts may indicate deeper plumbing issues.
  • Completely stuck drains could require advanced techniques like hydro-jetting, which uses pressurized water to unclog pipes.

Plumbers have access to camera inspection tools and industry-grade augers suited for extreme cases. But for everyday scenarios like clogged sinks and showers, a drain snake is usually all you need.

Tips to Prevent Future Clogs

The best way to fix a clogged drain is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some prevention tips:

  • Keep strainers or covers on drains to trap debris like hair or food particles.
  • Avoid pouring grease down the sink as it hardens and sticks inside pipes.
  • Flush your drains monthly with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to prevent buildup.
  • Regularly clear visible hair and debris from shower drains.

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6 Top Drain Snakes You Can Purchase

Here is a list of the top drain snakes, their unique features, and where to purchase them:

Ridgid Power Spin+ with AUTOFEED®

This hand-powered drain snake is equipped with an AUTOFEED® mechanism for easier, hands-free operation. Perfect for clearing sink and shower drains.

Buy the Ridgid Power Spin+ with AUTOFEED®

Drano Max Gel with Snake Kit

A budget-friendly option combining a chemical drain cleaner with a manual snake for light clogs in small drains. Ideal for homeowners looking for a quick fix.

Buy Drano Max Gel with Snake Kit

FlexiSnake Drain Weasel

This lightweight and disposable snake is great for removing hair clogs from bathroom drains. It features micro-hooks that efficiently grab debris.

Buy the FlexiSnake Drain Weasel

TACKLIFE Drain Auger

This versatile and durable 25-foot manual drain auger is suitable for a variety of clogs in sinks, tubs, and even toilets. Comes with a comfortable ergonomic handle.

Buy the TACKLIFE Drain Auger

Milwaukee M12 Drain Snake Kit

A professional-grade, battery-powered drain snake designed for heavy-duty clogs. Its compact design and high power make it ideal for advanced plumbing tasks.

Buy the Milwaukee M12 Drain Snake Kit

Spartan Tool Explorer with Camera

For the ultimate diagnostic and clog removal experience, this tool combines a high-definition camera with a powerful snake system. Designed for expert plumbers.

Buy the Spartan Tool Explorer

When choosing your drain snake, consider the specific needs of your plumbing system and the level of difficulty involved in the clogs you frequently encounter. Each product offers unique benefits to suit different situations.

MD Sewer

MD Sewer and Plumbing will handle the toughest clogs so you can rest assured your drains and clean and free.

Final Thoughts

A drain snake can be a plumber’s best friend and a homeowner’s secret weapon against clogged drains. Whether you’re dealing with a slow-draining sink or stubborn obstructions in your shower, following the proper techniques can save you valuable time and money while keeping your plumbing in top shape.

For tougher or recurring clogs, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber who can diagnose and solve the issue efficiently.

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