How many times should you snake a drain?

Dealing with a clogged drain can be a frustrating and unpleasant experience. Whether it’s a kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, or bathtub, having standing water that just won’t go down can disrupt your daily routine. When faced with a stubborn clog, many homeowners turn to a drain snake as a solution. But the question remains - how many times should you snake a drain before considering it fully cleared?

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Understanding drain snakes.

Before we delve into how many times you should snake a drain, let’s first understand what a drain snake is and how it works. A drain snake, also known as a plumbing snake or auger, is a long, flexible tool used to dislodge clogs in pipes. It is inserted into the drain pipe and then twisted and pushed down through the clog to either break it apart or pull it out.

There are two main types of drain snakes - handheld and motorized. Handheld snakes are manually operated and are suitable for smaller clogs closer to the surface. Motorized snakes, on the other hand, are powered by electricity or a battery and are more heavy-duty, making them suitable for larger and tougher clogs deeper in the pipes.

How many times to snake a drain?

The number of times you should snake a drain depends on the severity of the clog and how well the initial snaking attempt works. In general, it’s a good idea to start with one or two attempts before deciding if you need to call in a professional plumber.

One time.

If the clog is minor and near the surface, snaking the drain once may be all that is needed to clear it. For example, if you have a kitchen sink with a clog caused by food particles or grease buildup, a single snaking session may be sufficient to break up the clog and allow water to flow freely again.

Two times.

If the clog is more stubborn or if the initial snaking attempt only partially clears the drain, it may be necessary to snake the drain a second time. This can help to further dislodge the clog and ensure that the drain is fully cleared. For larger clogs or those located deeper in the pipes, a second snaking session may be necessary to completely remove the blockage.

When to call a plumber.

If you’ve snaked the drain two or more times and the clog is still not cleared, it may be time to call a professional plumber. A plumber will have the tools and expertise to tackle more challenging clogs, such as tree roots or major pipe damage, that may be causing the blockage. Attempting to snake a drain multiple times without success can potentially cause damage to your pipes, so it’s best to seek professional help if you’re unable to clear the clog on your own.

Preventing future clogs.

Regardless of how many times you snake a drain, the best way to deal with clogs is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to help keep your drains clear:

• Avoid pouring grease or cooking oil down the drain

• Use a hair catcher in the shower or bathtub to prevent hair from going down the drain

• Regularly clean your drains with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to prevent buildup

• Be mindful of what you flush down the toilet to prevent blockages

By following these preventative measures, you can help reduce the chances of experiencing a clogged drain in the future.

In conclusion.

How many times you should snake a drain depends on the severity of the clog and how well the initial snaking attempts work. Starting with one or two attempts is a good place to start, but if the clog persists, it may be time to call a professional plumber. Remember to take preventative measures to keep your drains clear and flowing smoothly.