A plumber clears a drain with a snake by feeding a long, flexible metal cable into the pipe until it reaches the clog, then turning the cable so its tip breaks up the blockage or hooks it so it can be pulled out. Snakes, also called augers, can reach clogs that a plunger cannot.
How a Drain Snake Works
The cable is coiled inside a drum. As the plumber cranks the handle or runs a motor, the cable spins and moves forward through the pipe. The tip may have a corkscrew, a blade, or a hook, depending on the type of clog. Hair and soft blockages are often pulled out. Harder buildup is broken into smaller pieces that can be flushed away.
Different Snakes for Different Drains
- Hand augers: short cables for sinks, tubs, and showers.
- Toilet augers: designed to pass through the toilet without scratching the bowl.
- Motorized drain machines: longer, stronger cables for main lines and stubborn clogs.
Where the Plumber Gets In
For a sink, the cable may go through the drain opening or through the trap under the sink. For larger lines, plumbers often use a cleanout, which is a capped opening on the drain pipe made for this purpose. Using the right access point helps avoid damage to fixtures and makes it easier to reach clogs deep in the line.
When a Snake Is Not Enough
Snaking clears a path, but it may not scrub the pipe walls clean. Clogs that keep coming back may point to grease buildup, roots, or a damaged pipe. A camera inspection can show what is really going on inside the line, so the next fix lasts longer.
If your drains keep slowing down after plunging, getting the drain properly cleared can save you from a bigger backup. To talk through the problem first, you can contact a local plumber by calling JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840.