There’s no denying that drain clogs are frustrating. A plumbing snake could break up the clog, but how does a plumbing snake work exactly?
At SM Mechanical Services LLC, we employ some of the best plumbers in West Hartford, CT, who regularly handle drain blockage removals. Here, we explain how this plumbing tool works and when it’s best to seek professional help for a stubborn clog.
What’s a Plumbing Snake?
A plumbing snake is a thin, flexible tool that breaks up blockages deep within pipelines. It’s a good alternative to consider if a plunger can’t dislodge a clogged drain. The tool consists of a long rotating coiled wire with a handle and crank on one end and a specialized head on the other, which breaks up debris inside the drain.
How Drain Snakes Work
How does a plumbing snake work on West Hartford plumbing systems?
Professionals insert the flexible coil into the affected drain until it reaches the blockage. Depending on the location of the clog, they may encounter a bend in the pipe before reaching the debris. However, the tool is small and flexible, allowing it to navigate with careful maneuvering.
Once the snake can no longer move, it has likely reached the debris causing the clog. At that point, the head of the tool can break through the material and force it through the plumbing system, or it can hook onto the mess to be pulled out of the drain.
Different Types of Drain Snakes for Removing Clogged Pipes in West Hartford
Not all plumbing snakes are the same. Some have specific purposes. Let’s explore the most common models below.
Handheld Drain Snakes
The most basic plumbing snake is the handheld option featuring manual operation. It is most effective for small drains and simple clogs in residential properties.
Drain Augers
A drain auger is a more robust version of a basic plumbing snake. It helps clear clogs in hard-to-reach areas, such as sewer lines.
Unlike regular drain snakes, augers have longer, thicker cables. The end that goes into drains has a spiral-shaped cone capable of breaking through dense materials with greater force. Many auger options feature hand cranks, but some include motors for added power.
Flat Tape Drain Snakes
Although many plumbing snakes have coils, flat tape snakes are flat. Their ribbon-like appearance makes them suitable for smaller pipes, such as those found in showers and sinks in homes in West Hartford.
Can I Try Snaking a Drain Myself?
While homeowners may purchase a snake from their local hardware store, using one effectively requires proper training and precision. On the surface, it would appear to be a good money-saving option. Unfortunately, we’ve seen our fair share of DIYers damage their pipes in the process and end up spending far more than they would have had they just gone with a reputable plumber in the first place.
This is why we always recommend hiring a professional who knows how to handle the equipment safely.
What To Do If Snaking a Drain Doesn’t Work
Although effective, plumbing snakes aren’t always enough. Some clogs are too dense for the tool to either hook onto or push through. In that case, hydro-jetting may be the better option.
Hydro-jetting is a drain cleaning technique that uses pressurized water and specialized nozzles to break up stubborn clogs. Like plumbing snakes, the hose used for this service goes into the affected drain.
The highly pressurized water stream is powerful enough not only to remove stubborn blockages but also to clear the pipe’s interior walls of debris and residue. It’s a good option for West Hartford residents who want to keep their pipes clean and clear to ensure optimal water flow.
Turn to Our Plumbing Experts in West Hartford for Your Drain Clearing and Cleaning Needs
You don’t have to deal with troublesome drain clogs now that you know the answer to “How does a plumbing snake work?” Whether your pipe’s obstruction can be cleared with this method or needs something more powerful like hydro-jetting, you can rely on our experts at SM Mechanical Services LLC to clear everything up.
As a top-rated plumbing company serving West Hartford, Connecticut, we have the tools and expertise to clear any plumbing clog. We also offer drain cleaning services and solutions to address common winter plumbing problems, ensuring your plumbing system operates smoothly at all times.
Contact SM Mechanical Services LLC today to request an appointment.