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Understanding How Drain Snaking Works

If you have ever experienced a clogged drain, you know how frustrating it can be.

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Written by

The DrainMaster team

Family-owned Columbus plumbing, drain and sewer company, founded in 1999. Ohio License #35036.

Meet the team
A DrainMaster technician working a drain cable under a bathroom vanity
Cabling a bathroom sink drain — a DrainMaster job.
plumber snaking a drain Arlington, OH

If you have ever experienced a clogged drain, you know how frustrating it can be. Water not draining properly can lead to unpleasant smells, damage to your pipes, and worse, backups. While there are many ways to unclog a drain, one of the most effective is drain snaking.

This method involves using a flexible metal cable to clear out clogs from the drains. The cable, known as an auger, has a spiral end that breaks down and removes debris buildup from the pipes. DrainMaster shows how this form of drain cleaning in Upper Arlington, OH, works:

Pinpoint the Problem

First, you need to determine the location and severity of the clog. A drain cleaning company does this by feeding a specialized camera into the pipes. If you have a sink or toilet that’s not draining properly, it’s likely that the clog is in the trap, the curved pipe under the fixture. If multiple drains in your home are affected, the clog may be further down in the main drain line.

Remove the Clog

Next, your plumber will insert the cable into the drain until it reaches the clog. They will turn the crank on the end of the cable, causing the corkscrew-like end to rotate, grab onto the debris, and pull it out of the drain. Then, before ending the drain cleaning services, they will flush the drain with water to ensure it is completely clear.

When Is Drain Snaking Needed?

Drain snaking is usually necessary when a clog is too deep in the drain to be removed with a plunger. It is also useful when the clogged drain is caused by a solid object, such as a toy, that can’t be dislodged by other tools.

While you can buy a drain snake and attempt to clear out the clog yourself, it’s best to leave the job to a professional. DIY attempts can often worsen the clog, damage pipes, or cause injury. Additionally, some clogs may need more advanced techniques or equipment that only an expert can provide.

Dealing with stubborn clogs? Let DrainMaster deal with them and restore your drains in no time. Contact us today for an appointment.

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Need Drain Snaking Services in Columbus, OH?

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