A clogged drain is a homeowner's nightmare. Fortunately, a plumber's auger, also known as a drain snake, is a powerful tool that can often clear the blockage quickly and efficiently, saving you the cost of a professional plumber. This guide will walk you through how to use a plumber's auger safely and effectively.
Understanding Your Plumber's Auger
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with the different parts of a plumber's auger:
- Handle: This is the part you grip and rotate to feed the auger into the drain.
- Cable: This flexible metal cable is what does the work of clearing the clog. Different augers have cables of varying lengths and thicknesses.
- Feed Mechanism: This mechanism allows you to feed the cable into the drain. Some augers have a hand crank, while others are powered electrically.
- Tip: The end of the cable, often shaped for better grip on the clog.
Preparing for the Job
1. Safety First:
- Always wear safety glasses: Debris can be flung back out of the drain.
- Protect your hands: Use gloves to avoid getting dirty or injured.
- Turn off the garbage disposal (if applicable): Avoid accidental injury.
- Clear the area around the drain: This prevents accidents and makes working easier.
2. Assessing the Situation:
- Identify the location of the clog: Is it in the sink, toilet, shower, or floor drain? This will help you determine the best approach.
- Choose the right auger: If you have multiple augers, select one with a cable length appropriate for the suspected location of the clog. A longer cable is needed for deeper clogs.
Using the Plumber's Auger: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Inserting the Auger:
- Carefully insert the auger's tip into the drain opening. Gently feed the cable into the drain, rotating the handle to advance it. Avoid forcing the cable.
- Feel for resistance: As you feed the cable, you'll likely feel resistance when it encounters the clog.
2. Breaking Up the Clog:
- Continue rotating the handle: Once you feel resistance, continue to rotate the handle, applying gentle but firm pressure. This helps break up the clog. Don't force the auger too hard, as this could damage your pipes.
- Feel for movement: If you feel the resistance lessening, you're likely breaking up the clog.
3. Retrieving the Auger:
- Once you feel the auger pass through the clog, carefully continue to rotate the handle while slowly retrieving the cable. This helps to pull any loosened debris out of the drain.
- Clean the auger: After removing the auger, clean the cable of any debris before storing it.
4. Flushing the Drain:
- Run the water: Once the auger is removed, flush the drain with plenty of hot water to ensure the clog has been completely cleared.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- The cable is stuck: If the cable becomes stuck, do not force it. Try to gently rock it back and forth to loosen it. If it remains stuck, you may need to call a plumber.
- The clog persists: If the drain is still clogged after using the auger, the clog may be more serious than you initially thought, and professional help may be necessary. This could indicate a deeper or more complex blockage.
When to Call a Plumber
While a plumber's auger is a handy tool for tackling many drain clogs, some situations require the expertise of a professional plumber:
- Severe or recurring clogs: If you frequently experience clogged drains, there may be an underlying plumbing issue.
- Damaged pipes: If you suspect damaged pipes, it's essential to call a plumber to avoid further damage.
- You're uncomfortable using the auger: If you are unsure about using the auger, it’s always best to contact a professional.
By following these steps, you can effectively use a plumber's auger to clear most drain clogs. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. If you encounter any difficulties, don't hesitate to call a qualified plumber for assistance.
