Dealing with a Blocked Drain: Why DIY Snaking Can Do More Harm Than Good

Whether you live in an apartment, condo, or house in a bustling city or rural area, dealing with a blocked drain is inevitable. Most people start by reaching for a plunger to clear the clog, but if that doesn’t work, many turn to snaking the drain themselves. Unfortunately, DIY drain snaking can often lead to more harm than good. Here’s why you should leave this task to the professionals.

What Is Drain Snaking?

Drain snaking, also known as using a plumber’s snake, involves a long, flexible cable equipped with a tip designed to break through or grab clogs. While basic drain snakes are available at hardware stores for homeowners, professional plumbers have access to more advanced and specialized equipment. A residential drain snake typically measures between 25 and 50 feet long, while motorized versions can reach up to 100 feet. For more severe clogs, particularly in commercial settings, plumbers may use a motorized sewage auger that can extend as far as 200 feet.

Why You Shouldn’t Snake Your Own Drains

Attempting to snake your own drains can lead to a range of issues, including damage to your pipes, personal injury, and even making the clog worse. Here’s why you should think twice before attempting a DIY drain clean:

1. Risk of Damaging Your Pipes

Many homes, especially older ones, have plumbing systems that are more fragile and prone to damage. A drain snake, if used improperly, can scratch, puncture, or weaken pipes that may already be corroded. This can result in leaks, bursts, or expensive repairs that could have been avoided by calling our professional plumbers. Our professionals have the experience to handle older plumbing without causing further damage.

2. Exposure to Contaminated Water

When trying to clear a drain, there’s a risk of exposure to contaminated water that could contain bacteria or even sewage. This poses a health risk, especially if you come into contact with the dirty water while handling the snake. Plumbers, on the other hand, use protective gear and have the proper tools to avoid exposure.

3. Potential for Personal Injury

Snaking a drain may not seem dangerous, but it can lead to injury if the snake isn’t handled properly. The tip of the snake is sharp, and there’s always the risk of cutting yourself. Additionally, improper use of the tool can cause back or knee pain from awkward bending and kneeling. In the worst-case scenario, an injury combined with contact with dirty water could lead to infection.

4. Worsening the Clog

Sometimes, using a drain snake can push the clog deeper into the pipe, making the blockage even worse. This often happens if the clog is caused by mineral buildup, like hard water deposits, that can be scraped off and further block the drain. Our professional plumbers will have the knowledge to assess the type of clog and determine the right solution.

5. Risk of Damaging Fixtures

Even with careful handling, the tip of a drain snake can easily scratch sinks, bathtubs, or other fixtures, leading to rust or corrosion over time. Our licensed plumbers know how to use the snake without damaging your plumbing fixtures.

6. Using the Wrong Tool for the Job

Different clogs require different tools, and using the wrong type of drain snake could lead to more damage or ineffective results. Plumbers have a variety of snakes, each suited to specific types of clogs:

• Top Snake: Ideal for clearing minor clogs in sinks, showers, or washing machines.
• Mini-Rooter: An electric snake for tougher residential clogs.
• Toilet Auger: Specifically designed to clear blockages in toilets.
• Large Drainage Machine: Used for large-scale clogs, such as those in sewer lines.

When Snaking Isn’t Enough

In some cases, a snake alone won’t clear a clog, especially if it’s caused by grease, mineral buildup, or tree roots. In these instances, our plumbers may recommend hydro jetting—a method that uses high-pressure water to thoroughly clean pipes and remove tough obstructions that a snake can’t handle.

Maintaining your drains is crucial for a healthy and efficient plumbing system. By understanding common causes of clogs and implementing preventative measures, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure optimal water flow. If you need professional assistance, Order a Plumber Inc. is here to help. Our expert team of plumbers provides comprehensive plumbing services tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can keep your drains in top condition.