Learn How to Snake a Drain and Say Goodbye to Slow Drains

A clogged drain can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem for homeowners. One of the most effective ways to clear a stopped bathtub or shower drain is by using a plumbing tool called a drain snake. A drain snake is a long, flexible cable with a small auger or spiral on the end that can be inserted into the drain to break up and remove blockages. In this article, we will explain the steps on how to snake a clogged drain and clear a stopped bathtub or shower drain.

Before you begin, it's important to have the right tools. You will need a drain snake, a pair of gloves, and a bucket or container to collect any water or debris that may come out of the drain. It's also a good idea to have a flashlight on hand to help you see into the drain.

The first step in snaking a clogged drain is to locate the cleanout plug. This is a small plug or cap that is usually located near the base of the bathtub or shower. It's important to locate the cleanout plug so you can access the drain and insert the snake.

Once you have located the cleanout plug, remove it with a wrench or pliers. Be prepared for some water to come out of the drain, so have a bucket or container ready to catch it.

Next, insert the snake into the drain. You can do this by pushing it down into the drain with your hands or using a plumbing auger to guide it into the drain. It's important to be gentle when inserting the snake to avoid damaging the pipes.

Once the snake is in the drain, turn the handle on the snake to start rotating the spiral on the end. This will help to break up any blockages that are blocking the drain. As you turn the handle, slowly push the snake deeper into the drain. Keep turning the handle and pushing the snake deeper into the drain until you feel it hit the blockage.

When you feel the snake hit the blockage, use the handle to twist and turn the snake to break up the blockage. Keep turning the handle until the blockage is broken up and can be pulled out of the drain.

Once the blockage is removed, slowly pull the snake back out of the drain. As you remove the snake, be sure to check for any debris that may have been caught on the spiral. Be sure to remove any debris from the spiral or from the drain.

After the snake has been removed, run some water through the drain to ensure it is flowing freely. You can do this by turning on the shower or bathtub faucet and letting the water run for a few minutes. If the water is flowing freely, you have successfully cleared the clogged drain.

If the water is still not flowing freely, or if the blockage keeps recurring, it may be a sign that there is a more serious problem with your plumbing. In this case, it's best to call a professional plumber to inspect your pipes and make any necessary repairs.

In conclusion, snaking a clogged drain is a simple and effective way to clear a stopped bathtub or shower drain. By following these steps, you can easily break up and remove blockages, ensuring that your bathtub or shower drain flows freely. However, if you find that the blockage keeps recurring or if you're not confident in your ability to snake the drain, it's best to call a professional plumber. Remember always to be careful and use the right tools to avoid any damage to your pipes.