Why did snaking my drain make it worse?

Are you tired of clogged drains and backed-up pipes? Snake a drain might be the solution you need. But how often should you do it? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the answer to that question and more. We’ll cover the benefits of snake a drain, how to know when it’s time to do it, and how to do it properly. So, whether you’re a homeowner or a professional plumber, this guide has got you covered. Get ready to unclog your drains like a pro!

What is Drain Snaking?

How Drain Snaking Works

Drain snaking is a process of cleaning out the drain by removing the obstruction that is causing the blockage. It is a common plumbing practice that involves the use of a long, flexible rod that is inserted into the drain to remove the debris that has accumulated over time.

The process of drain snaking begins with identifying the location of the blockage. This can be done by using a camera inspection tool that is inserted into the drain to view the inside of the pipe. Once the location of the blockage has been identified, the plumber will insert the drain snake into the pipe and use it to break up and remove the obstruction.

The drain snake is a flexible rod that is typically made of metal or plastic. It is designed to be able to bend and turn to navigate through the twists and turns of the drain pipe. The snake is inserted into the drain and pushed forward until it reaches the obstruction. The plumber will then use the snake to break up the obstruction and remove it from the pipe.

Drain snaking is a relatively quick and easy process that can be done without causing any damage to the drain or the surrounding area. It is a cost-effective solution for clearing blockages and maintaining the proper functioning of the drain system. However, it is important to note that drain snaking should only be performed by a licensed and experienced plumber to ensure that the blockage is properly removed and to avoid any potential damage to the drain or pipes.

Benefits of Drain Snaking

Drain snaking is a process of clearing blockages in a drainage system by using a long, flexible rod with a cutting head at the end. This technique is often used to remove hair, soap, and other debris that can accumulate in drains over time. While drain snaking is primarily used to unclog drains, it also offers several other benefits.

One of the main benefits of drain snaking is that it is a cost-effective solution for maintaining a healthy drainage system. Regular snaking can help prevent more serious drain problems, such as overflows and backups, which can be expensive to repair. Additionally, snaking can help extend the life of your drains by removing accumulated debris that can cause damage over time.

Another benefit of drain snaking is that it is a safe and non-invasive way to clear blockages. Unlike chemical drain cleaners, which can be harsh and corrosive, snaking uses a gentle mechanical action to break up and remove blockages. This means that it is a safe and effective way to clear drains without causing damage to the pipes or the environment.

Finally, drain snaking is a quick and efficient way to clear blockages. Unlike other methods, such as digging or excavation, snaking allows professionals to access and clear blockages without causing any disruption to the surrounding area. This means that businesses and homeowners can quickly get back to normal after a drain blockage, without having to deal with the disruption and expense of more invasive methods.

Overall, drain snaking is a safe, cost-effective, and efficient way to maintain a healthy drainage system. By regularly scheduling drain snaking, homeowners and businesses can avoid more serious drain problems and keep their drains functioning properly.

Types of Drain Snaking Tools

There are various types of drain snaking tools available in the market, each designed for specific purposes. The two main types of drain snaking tools are drum augers and cable augers.

Drum Augers

Drum augers, also known as hand augers, are manually operated tools that consist of a long, flexible cable coiled around a drum. The cable is usually made of steel or aluminum and can be up to 50 feet long. The drum is usually mounted on a handle that the user holds while turning the drum to feed the cable into the drain.

Drum augers are typically used for small-scale drain cleaning jobs and can be effective in removing hair, soap, and other debris that can clog a drain. However, they may not be suitable for larger blockages, as they can easily get stuck or break.

Cable Augers

Cable augers, also known as electric augers, are powered by an electric motor and use a similar mechanism to drum augers to clear blockages. However, they are typically more powerful and can be used to clear larger blockages. Cable augers can be up to 100 feet long and have a higher torque than drum augers, which makes them more effective at breaking through tough blockages.

Cable augers are typically more expensive than drum augers but can be more cost-effective in the long run, as they can clear more extensive blockages with fewer attempts. They are also easier to use, as they require less physical effort than drum augers.

It is essential to choose the right type of drain snaking tool for the job to ensure effective drain cleaning and avoid damaging the pipes.

Factors Affecting Drain Maintenance

Frequency of Use

Frequency of Use: The number of times a drain is used per week can have a significant impact on how often it needs to be snaked.

• Heavy Use: If a drain is used frequently, such as in a commercial kitchen, it may need to be snaked more often, potentially as often as once a week or even more frequently.
• Light Use: On the other hand, if a drain is used less frequently, such as in a residential home, it may only need to be snaked every few months.

It’s important to consider the frequency of use when determining how often to snake a drain, as this can help ensure that the drain remains clear and functional.

• Factors to Consider:
  • Type of Business or Residence: The type of business or residence can also impact how often a drain needs to be snaked. For example, a restaurant may need to snake its drains more often than a residential home.
  • Location of the Drain: The location of the drain can also impact how often it needs to be snaked. For example, a drain in a high-traffic area may need to be snaked more often than a drain in a low-traffic area.

By taking into account the frequency of use, businesses and homeowners can ensure that their drains are being maintained properly and that they are functioning effectively.

Location and Accessibility of Drains

• Drains are often located in difficult-to-reach areas, such as under sinks, behind appliances, or in the basement.
• Accessibility can be affected by factors such as pipes being buried underground, walls or floors obstructing access, or limited space for equipment and personnel.
• In addition, the type of drain system, such as gravity-flow or pressurized, can also impact the frequency of drain cleaning.
• The frequency of drain cleaning will vary depending on the location and accessibility of the drains, as well as the type of drain system used.
• It is important to consider these factors when determining how often to snake a drain.
• If the drains are located in hard-to-reach areas, it may be necessary to snake them more frequently to prevent buildup and clogs.
• If the drains are easily accessible, it may be possible to wait longer between cleanings.
• It is important to consider the location and accessibility of the drains when creating a drain maintenance schedule.
• By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your drains are cleaned at the appropriate intervals and function properly.

Age and Condition of Drains

The age and condition of drains play a significant role in determining how often they need to be snaked. Older homes or buildings may have older drains that are more prone to clogs and blockages, requiring more frequent snaking.

• Factors Affecting the Age of Drains:
  • The age of the home or building: Homes or buildings that are many years old may have older drains that are more prone to problems.
  • The material of the drain: Pipes made of certain materials, such as cast iron or clay, may deteriorate over time and require more frequent maintenance.
• Factors Affecting the Condition of Drains:
  • Use and wear: Drains that are exposed to heavy use, such as those in a commercial kitchen, may require more frequent snaking.
  • Damage: Any damage to the drain, such as cracks or holes, can lead to blockages and require more frequent maintenance.
  • Environmental factors: Drains in areas with extreme temperatures or high levels of moisture may be more prone to problems and require more frequent snaking.

Lifestyle and Habits of Homeowners

• Diet: The type of food consumed by homeowners can significantly impact the frequency of drain cleaning. Diets high in fats, oils, and grease (FOG) can lead to more frequent blockages.
  • • Examples: Fast food, high-fat meats, processed foods, etc.*
• Cooking Habits: The way food is prepared and the utensils used can also affect drain maintenance.
  • • Examples: Using large amounts of water for cooking, using the wrong utensils, etc.*
• Hygiene Practices: Homeowners who are not diligent about cleaning their drains and pipes can contribute to buildup and blockages.
  • • Examples: Not cleaning drains regularly, using harsh chemicals, etc.*
• Water Usage: The amount of water used in a household can also play a role in drain maintenance. High water usage can lead to more frequent clogs.
  • • Examples: Large families, frequent guests, running dishwasher and laundry machines, etc.*
• Appliances: The use of certain appliances, such as garbage disposals, can impact drain maintenance. Overuse or improper use of disposals can lead to increased buildup and blockages.
  • • Examples: Overloading disposals, using them for inappropriate items, etc.*
• Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as tree roots and soil can impact drain maintenance.
  • • Examples: Tree roots growing into pipes, soil washing into drains, etc.*

By understanding these lifestyle and habit factors, homeowners can take proactive steps to maintain their drains and reduce the need for frequent drain cleaning.

Best Practices for Drain Maintenance

Proper Use of Drain Snaking Tools

Proper use of drain snaking tools is essential for effective drain cleaning and maintenance. To ensure that you get the best results, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using these tools. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:

1. Inspect the drain before snaking: Before you start snaking the drain, it is important to inspect it for any blockages or debris that may be causing the problem. This will help you determine the right tool and approach to use.
2. Use the right tool for the job: Different drain snaking tools are designed for different types of blockages. It is important to choose the right tool for the job to avoid causing further damage to the drain.
3. Insert the tool carefully: When inserting the tool into the drain, be careful not to scratch or damage the walls of the pipe. Use a gentle, twisting motion to help loosen any blockages.
4. Remove the blockage carefully: Once the blockage has been loosened, use a bucket or catch basin to collect any debris that is removed from the drain. Be careful not to allow any debris to spill onto the floor or onto other surfaces.
5. Clean the tool after use: After using the drain snaking tool, it is important to clean it thoroughly to prevent the buildup of debris and to ensure that it is ready for the next use.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that you are using drain snaking tools effectively and safely. This will help you keep your drains clean and clear, preventing clogs and other problems that can lead to costly repairs.

Scheduling Regular Drain Cleaning

Maintaining the health of your home’s drainage system is essential to prevent costly repairs and clogs. One of the best practices for drain maintenance is scheduling regular drain cleaning. Here are some factors to consider when determining how often you should snake a drain:

• Frequency of use: The more frequently a drain is used, the more often it needs to be cleaned. For example, if you have a drain in your kitchen sink that is used multiple times a day, it may need to be cleaned more frequently than a drain in a guest bathroom that is used less often.
• Type of drain: Different types of drains may require different cleaning frequencies. For example, a floor drain in a basement may need to be cleaned more frequently than a bathroom sink drain.
• Water flow: Drains that experience low water flow may need to be cleaned more frequently than those with higher water flow. This is because low water flow can lead to more buildup and blockages.
• Seasonal changes: Some seasons may require more frequent drain cleaning than others. For example, during the winter months, drains may need to be cleaned more frequently due to the buildup of hair and soap from frequent showers and hand washing.

It is recommended to schedule regular drain cleaning at least once a year, but this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. Additionally, if you notice any signs of a clogged drain, such as slow draining water or standing water, it is important to schedule a drain cleaning as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Identifying and Addressing Common Drain Problems

Drain problems can arise due to various reasons, such as clogs, blockages, or damages to the drain pipes. It is essential to identify these problems early on to prevent them from worsening and causing more significant issues. Here are some common drain problems and how to address them:

Clogs

Clogs are one of the most common drain problems, and they can be caused by a buildup of hair, soap, grease, or other debris. To address a clogged drain, you can use a plunger or a plumbing snake to clear the blockage. If the clog is severe, you may need to disassemble the drain and clean it manually.

Blockages

Blockages can occur when there is a physical obstruction in the drain, such as a piece of jewelry, a toy, or a plant root. To address a blockage, you will need to locate the obstruction and remove it manually. If the blockage is too difficult to remove, you may need to use a plumbing snake or call a professional plumber to help you.

Damaged Pipes

Damaged pipes can cause leaks, cracks, or other structural issues that can lead to drain problems. To address damaged pipes, you may need to repair or replace the affected sections of the pipe. This can be a complex and time-consuming process, so it is often best to call a professional plumber to help you.

Slow Draining

Slow draining can be caused by a buildup of debris or a partial clog in the drain. To address slow draining, you can use a plunger or a plumbing snake to clear the blockage. You can also try using baking soda and vinegar to unclog the drain or running hot water through the drain to clear any debris.

In summary, identifying and addressing common drain problems is essential for maintaining the health and functionality of your plumbing system. By regularly inspecting your drains and addressing any issues as soon as they arise, you can prevent more significant problems from developing and prolong the life of your plumbing system.

Tips for Preventing Future Blockages

Proper drain maintenance is crucial to prevent future blockages and keep your drains functioning optimally. Here are some tips to help you maintain your drains and avoid costly repairs in the future:

1. Use strainers and screens
   One of the simplest ways to prevent future blockages is by using strainers and screens on your drains. These devices prevent hair, soap, and other debris from entering the drain and clogging it. Ensure that you clean these devices regularly to prevent buildup.
2. Avoid pouring oil and grease down the drain
   Oil and grease are some of the most common causes of drain blockages. When you pour them down the drain, they solidify and stick to the walls of the pipe, causing a blockage. Instead, pour oil and grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
3. Dispose of food scraps in the trash
   Food scraps are another common cause of drain blockages. When you dispose of food scraps down the drain, they can attract pests and cause unpleasant odors. Instead, dispose of food scraps in the trash.
4. Use baking soda and vinegar to unclog drains
   If you have a clogged drain, you can try using baking soda and vinegar to unclog it. Mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar, pour the mixture down the drain, and let it sit for a few hours before rinsing with hot water.
   5. Schedule regular drain cleaning
   Finally, it’s essential to schedule regular drain cleaning to prevent future blockages. A professional plumber can use specialized tools to clean your drains and remove any buildup or debris.

By following these tips, you can help prevent future blockages and keep your drains functioning optimally.

Recap of Key Points

1. Frequency of Drain Cleaning:
   • Interior drains in homes: Monthly or as needed
   • Exterior drains: Quarterly or as needed
   • Mainline sewer lines: Every 1-2 years
2. Choosing the Right Tool:
   • Professional grade drain snake for tough blockages
   • Plumbing snake for smaller blockages
   • Chemical drain cleaners as a last resort
3. Preparation for Drain Cleaning:
   • Put on protective gear: gloves, safety goggles, and dust mask
   • Clear the area around the drain of any debris
   • Turn off and on the water supply to the affected area
4. Proper Technique for Drain Cleaning:
   • Insert the snake into the drain and turn on the water
   • Use a push-pull motion to break up the blockage
   • Inspect the drain for any remaining debris
5. Tips for Maintaining Drains:
   • Regularly check for signs of clogs or damage
   • Avoid flushing items that are not biodegradable
   • Schedule professional inspections every 1-2 years
6. Importance of Drain Maintenance:
   • Prevents costly repairs and damage
   • Ensures proper functioning of plumbing system
   • Maintains hygiene and health in the home or building.

Importance of Regular Drain Maintenance

Maintaining your home’s drainage system is crucial to ensure its proper functioning and prevent costly repairs in the future. Neglecting regular drain maintenance can lead to clogs, backups, and even sewage overflows, causing damage to your property and posing health risks to you and your family. Here are some reasons why regular drain maintenance is essential:

• Prevents clogs and blockages: Regular drain cleaning helps to remove accumulated debris, such as hair, soap, and food particles, that can cause clogs and blockages in your drains. These blockages can lead to slow draining or even cause water to back up into your home, causing damage to your floors, walls, and furniture.
• Extends the life of your plumbing: Regular drain maintenance can help extend the life of your plumbing system by preventing corrosion and damage caused by standing water. When water is allowed to sit in your drains, it can cause mineral buildup and corrosion, which can eventually lead to cracks and leaks in your pipes.
• Reduces the risk of sewage overflows: Sewage overflows can be hazardous to your health and cause environmental damage. Regular drain maintenance can help prevent sewage overflows by ensuring that your drains are free-flowing and functioning properly.
• Saves you money: Neglecting regular drain maintenance can lead to more significant problems down the road, such as burst pipes or sewage backups, which can be expensive to repair. By investing in regular drain cleaning, you can save money in the long run by preventing these costly repairs.

In summary, regular drain maintenance is essential to ensure the proper functioning of your plumbing system, prevent costly repairs, and keep your home and family safe.

Encouraging Readers to Take Action

• Proactive Drain Maintenance
  • Regularly inspect drain lines for signs of blockage or damage
  • Use drain screens to catch debris and prevent buildup
  • Keep kitchen and bathroom drains clean by rinsing with hot water and baking soda
• Learn the Warning Signs
  • Strange odors emanating from the drain
  • Slow draining water
  • Gurgling noises from the drain
  • Standing water around the drain
• Schedule Professional Services
  • Hire a professional plumber to perform periodic drain cleaning and inspections
  • Schedule routine maintenance based on the frequency of drain usage and potential for blockages
  • Address any issues before they become major problems
• Incorporate Environmentally Friendly Practices
  • Use natural cleaning products to reduce harmful chemicals in your drains
  • Use a garbage disposal sparingly and only to dispose of food scraps
  • Consider using a water filter to reduce the amount of debris and contaminants entering your drains
• Educate Your Family and Tenants
  • Teach children and tenants the importance of proper drain maintenance
  • Encourage the responsible disposal of items that could clog drains
  • Share information on the potential consequences of ignoring drain issues
• Be Prepared for Emergencies
  • Keep a plunger and drain cleaner on hand for minor clogs
  • Have the contact information for a trusted plumber readily available
  • Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in case of emergency

FAQs

1. What is drain snaking?

Drain snaking is the process of using a long, flexible rod with a claw or hook at the end to remove blockages from a drain pipe. This is typically done when a sink, shower, or other drain becomes clogged with hair, soap, grease, or other debris.

2. Why is drain snaking necessary?

Drain snaking is necessary when a drain becomes clogged and cannot be cleared through normal use of plungers or drain cleaners. Snaking can reach deeper into the drain pipe to remove the blockage, restoring proper drainage and preventing backups.

3. How often should you snake a drain?

The frequency of drain snaking depends on several factors, including the amount of usage the drain receives, the type of debris that is commonly found in the drain, and the overall condition of the drain pipe. In general, it is recommended to snake a drain at least once a year to prevent buildup and maintain proper drainage. However, if you notice a drain is clogged more frequently, it may be necessary to snake it more often.

4. How do you know if your drain needs to be snaked?

Signs that your drain may need to be snaked include slow or stopped up drainage, foul odors coming from the drain, and gurgling noises in the plumbing. If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to call a professional plumber to snake the drain.

5. How much does it cost to have a drain snaked?

The cost of having a drain snaked can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the drain, the severity of the clog, and the length of the drain pipe. On average, it can cost between $100 to $300 to have a drain snaked by a professional plumber. However, this cost can vary depending on the specific needs of your drain and the location where you live.

6. Can you snake a drain yourself?

While it is possible to snake a drain yourself, it can be a messy and dangerous process. If you are not experienced with drain snaking, it is recommended to hire a professional plumber to ensure the job is done safely and effectively.

7. What type of equipment is needed for drain snaking?

A professional plumber will use specialized equipment for drain snaking, including a long, flexible rod with a claw or hook at the end, as well as a powerful drill or motor to power the rod through the drain pipe. The plumber may also use protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, to prevent injury while working with the equipment.

How to Unclog Any Drain | Ask This Old House