A plumbing snake, sometimes called a drain snake or drain auger, is a simple but powerful tool for clearing blocked pipes. For homeowners here in Exeter and across Devon, knowing how to use one can save the cost of an emergency plumber on a minor clog. It is a flexible, coiled cable with a handle on one end and a corkscrew or hook on the other – you feed it into a blocked drain to break up or pull out the blockage. But it is important to know when to stop and call an expert, so you avoid damaging your pipes.
In this guide, we cover:
- What a plumbing snake is and how it works
- When to use one (and when not to)
- A simple step-by-step guide
- Safety tips to protect your pipes
- When to call Home Exeter to handle tougher blockages
When Should You Use a Plumbing Snake?
A plumbing snake is best for stubborn clogs that a plunger cannot shift.
Use a plumbing snake if:
- Water is draining slowly despite using a plunger
- The blockage is deeper than you can reach by hand
- You want to clear hair, food waste or soap scum from pipes
Plumbing snakes are safe for most kitchen and bathroom blockages but avoid using them if:
- You suspect a serious pipe issue, like tree roots or collapsed drains
- The pipes are very old or fragile
- You have already tried chemical drain cleaners — chemicals can splash back dangerously when snaking
Types of Plumbing Snakes
There are a few versions you might see:
Handheld Drain Snake: The most common type for home use. Good for sinks, showers and baths.
Toilet Auger: Designed specifically for toilets. It has a shorter, more rigid cable to navigate the toilet’s bends.
Motorised or Electric Drain Snake: For serious blockages in larger pipes. Usually best left to professional plumbers.
For most DIY jobs, a simple handheld snake is all you need.
How to Use a Plumbing Snake: Step-by-Step
Follow these steps to use a plumbing snake safely and effectively.
1. Gather Your Kit
You will need:
- A plumbing snake (handheld)
- A bucket or old towel to catch any drips
- Rubber gloves
- Protective eyewear (optional, but wise)
2. Clear the Area
Move any items under or around the sink or drain. Place the bucket or towel under the pipe to catch spills.
3. Remove the Drain Cover
If your sink or shower has a plug or drain cover, remove it to get clear access.
For a sink, you may also need to remove the trap (the U-shaped pipe under the sink) if the blockage is beyond it.
4. Insert the Snake Slowly
Feed the end of the snake into the drain opening. Turn the handle clockwise as you push. This helps the coil grip and move deeper.
Keep feeding the snake in slowly and steadily. Do not force it — let the cable find its way around bends.
5. Break Up or Hook the Blockage
When you feel resistance, you have reached the blockage. Gently rotate and push the snake to break up the clog.
If your snake has a hook or corkscrew tip, twist it to snag hair or debris.
6. Pull the Snake Out Carefully
Slowly retract the snake, still rotating the handle. This helps pull debris up with it.
Be prepared for some mess — have your bucket or towel ready.
7. Test the Drain
Run warm water to check the flow. If it drains freely, well done.
If it is still slow, repeat the process a couple of times. Persistent clogs may need a plumber.
8. Clean Up
Clean the snake with warm soapy water and dry it before storing. Replace the drain cover and tidy the area.
Safety Tips for Using a Plumbing Snake
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from grime and sharp debris.
- Do not force the snake too hard — you could damage the pipe or fittings.
- Never use a plumbing snake right after pouring chemical drain cleaners. This can splash dangerous chemicals back at you.
- Take care with porcelain sinks or toilets — avoid scratching the surface with the metal cable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple DIY drain clearing can go wrong if you are not careful. Watch out for these mistakes:
- Using the wrong type of snake — always use a toilet auger for toilets, not a sink snake.
- Twisting the handle too fast or pushing too hard — this can kink or snap the cable.
- Forgetting to check if the P-trap under the sink is clogged — sometimes you do not even need a snake.
- Not running enough water after clearing the blockage — always flush the pipe well.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Some blockages are best left to the experts. Call Home Exeter if:
- The snake does not clear the blockage after a couple of tries.
- You keep having the same drain problem again and again.
- There are signs of a bigger issue, like water backing up in multiple drains.
- You suspect tree roots or collapsed pipes.
Professional plumbers have motorised drain augers, high-pressure jetting equipment and CCTV cameras to tackle bigger problems safely.
How Home Exeter Can Help
At Home Exeter, we help homeowners tackle plumbing problems big and small.
If your blocked drain is too stubborn for a plunger or snake, our qualified local plumbers can:
- Clear the toughest clogs quickly and safely
- Inspect your pipes for hidden damage or tree roots
- Repair or replace old or damaged sections of pipe
- Offer advice on preventing future blockages
We are known for fair pricing, tidy work and friendly, local service across Exeter and Devon.
FAQs: How to Use a Plumbing Snake
Is a plumbing snake easy to use?
Yes, for simple blockages. Follow instructions and go slowly.
Can a plumbing snake damage pipes?
If used roughly or forced too hard, it can scratch or break older pipes.
How far can a plumbing snake reach?
Most handheld snakes reach about 5 to 10 metres, enough for most household drains.
What if a snake does not work?
Try again gently. If that fails, call a plumber — the blockage may be deeper or more serious.
Can I use a plumbing snake on a toilet?
Use a toilet auger, not a standard sink snake. It is designed to get around the bends in a toilet.
Conclusion: A Handy Tool — If You Use It Right
A plumbing snake is a brilliant tool for dealing with stubborn sink and shower blockages. Used carefully, it saves time, money and mess.
But know when to call in the professionals too. Persistent blockages may be a sign of bigger pipe problems that need an expert’s eye.
Need help with a blocked drain or want friendly advice?
Contact Home Exeter today and let our trusted plumbers take care of it for you.
