A drain snake, also often called a drain auger or plumber’s snake, is a tool that can be used to clear small or medium blockages in sinks, toilets, showers, and drains. It is essentially a long piece of flexible metal cable that has a spiral shaped element (the ‘auger’) on the end.
The most common blockages found in domestic drains are hair, greases/oils, and foreign objects
How to use a drain snake
Before you start, you may need to remove the grate/cover or plug hole. This can give you better access.
Begin by feeding the main cable into the opening of the pipework. Do this until you feel it hit against something (the blockage). Then turn the auger and wiggle the cable from side to side. This will (hopefully) help to break up and dislodge the blockage. As the blockage moves, you should be able either to feed more cable through or retract it with the blockage attached.
Once you have removed the drain snake, you should flush out the pipework with water.
What are the different types of drain snakes?
There are two main types of drain snakes: manual, and electric. Manually-operated snakes usually have a handle you can twist, whilst electric ones can twist the cable for you. A basic manual drain snake can cost from as little as £10, whilst more complex, electric versions can cost considerably more.
Drainage experts in Wolverhampton
If you feel that you could benefit from professional help to resolve your drainage issues, there are a number of specialist firms that can offer a CCTV drain survey Wolverhampton and the surrounding areas. Many of these also have useful online resources – such as the examples seen here: www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/cctv-drain-surveys-wolverhampton/.
Prevention is better than cure
When it comes to drains, preventative maintenance is important and often more cost-effective than having to deal with problems as and when they arise. Top tips include rinsing your drains regularly (using warm water or a mixture of soda and vinegar), and being mindful about what you put down your drains and in the toilet.
