Are you looking for a portable way to clear your clogged pipes? If so, you may want to consider using a snake auger. Snake augers can help you clear even the most stubborn blockages in a matter of minutes.
A snake auger can be a handy tool to have around when you need to clear a clog in your plumbing. If you know how to use it properly, it can make the job a lot easier.
If you are a homeowner, then there is a good chance you will eventually need to use a snake auger. This is an essential tool for removing clogs from drains. However, using a snake auger can be tricky if you are unfamiliar with it. This blog post will teach you how to use a snake auger effectively. So, if you are ready to learn more about this handy tool, keep reading!
When Should You Use a Snake Auger?
One of the main benefits of using a snake auger is that it can be used to tackle clogs in a wide range of situations. A snake auger is ideal for unclogging toilets, sinks, and showers. It can also be used to clear blockages in your kitchen or bathroom pipes.
If you are dealing with a stubborn or recurring clog, then using a snake auger is often the best option. This tool can help you clear out clogs that other methods, such as drain cleaners or plungers, have failed to fix.
Moreover, a snake auger is portable and easy to use, making it a great option for tackling clogs inside and outside your home. If you are looking for an effective way to clear clogged pipes, then using a snake auger is definitely the way to go.
10 Easy Steps on How to Use a Snake Auger
Step 1. Identify the Clogged Drain:
Before you begin using a snake auger, it is important first to identify the drain that is clogged. This will help you determine how far down the blockage extends and how much work will be involved in clearing it. You can usually find the clogged area by checking for a visible blockage or noticing how slowly the water drains.
Step 2. Prepare Your Snake Auger:
Once you have identified the clogged drain, you should next gather your equipment and prepare your snake auger for use. This typically involves attaching an end of the tool to a drill, pulling out any excess cable, and winding the handle of the auger when you are ready to start. Be careful not to let the cable end of the snake auger touch any pipes or fixtures, as this can damage them.
Step 3. Feed Your Snake Auger into the Drain:
Next, you will need to feed your snake auger into the drain where you have identified a blockage. This can be done manually or by using a drill if necessary. Once your snake auger is in place, it will start to spin and push its way through the clog, dislodging it from the pipe walls as it goes.
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Step 4. Twist and Push Your Way Through:
Once your snake auger has reached the clogged area, you must twist and push on it until you feel some resistance. At this point, you can use a drill to help push the auger through the clog. Depending on how tightly it is caught in the drain, you may need to wind or unwind your auger as you go.
Step 5. Remove Any Blockages:
Once you have cleared out any visible blockages, it is important to check for any remaining debris inside the drain pipe. This can be done by pulling up on your snake auger and checking for anything that may be stuck inside. If needed, you can feed your auger back in and continue cleaning until all debris has been removed from the drain.
Step 6. Flush Your Drain:
After clearing out any blockages with your snake auger, it is important to flush your drain with water to remove any remaining debris. This can be done by running a few gallons of water through the drain, which will help dislodge and carry away anything that may be left behind. If needed, you can repeat this step several times until your drain is completely clean.
Step 7. Perform Regular Maintenance:
To prevent future blockages from occurring, it is important to perform regular maintenance on your drains using a snake auger or other suitable tools. This may involve cleaning out your pipes monthly or bimonthly, depending on how frequently you use your drains. Whether you are dealing with a clog or simply want to prevent one from occurring, regular maintenance can help keep your drains in good working order.
Step 8. Store Your Snake Auger Safely:
When not in use, it is important to store your snake auger safely so that you can keep it ready for any future clogs that may occur. This typically involves putting your auger away in a dry, cool place where it will not be damaged and can be easily retrieved when needed. If possible, you may also consider investing in a toolbox or other storage solution that can protect your snake auger and is readily accessible.
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Step 9. Seek Professional Help If Necessary:
In some cases, it may be necessary to seek professional help when dealing with stubborn clogs, especially if they are located deep within your pipes or drainage system. This can involve calling a plumbing company for assistance or hiring an experienced plumber to clear out the blockage using specialized tools and techniques.
Step 10. Remember to Protect Your Pipes:
Lastly, it is important to remember how much damage even a small amount of debris can do to your pipes over time. To avoid unnecessary repairs or replacements down the road, it is important to protect your pipes from clogs and other forms of damage by keeping them clean and well-maintained at all times. This can be done by using a snake auger or other appropriate tools regularly, as well as taking measures to prevent any excess debris from entering your drainage system in the first place.
Follow these steps to use a snake auger effectively and safely.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- When operating your snake auger, be sure to hold on firmly to its handles and keep a firm grip at all times. This will help ensure that you maintain control of the device while using it.
- Always choose a spot on your property where there is no risk of damaging any underground utilities or infrastructure, such as sewer lines or power cables. If in doubt, contact a professional for assistance in locating any potential hazards before digging with your snake auger.
- Make sure that you clear out a large enough hole for your snake auger to fit into and that there is a smooth path for the device to follow. This will ensure that you can easily reach the depths at which you are trying to dig.
- When using your snake auger, keep an eye on how quickly it’s moving through the soil, as this can help indicate how close you are getting to your target depth.
- Finally, always remember to be patient and take your time when using a snake auger – rushing can result in inaccurate or incomplete excavations and may even damage your device.
With these tips in mind, however, you should be able to use your snake auger with ease and confidence successfully.
5 Precautions You Can Take
- Always wear proper safety gear, such as heavy-duty work gloves and eye protection, when operating a snake auger.
- Before using a snake auger, carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you use it correctly and safely.
- Keep the snake auger pointed in a safe direction at all times, and never point it toward yourself or others.
- Always use caution when working near power lines or other sources of electricity. Make sure your equipment is properly grounded at all times.
- If you notice any signs of damage or wear on your snake auger, take it to a professional for repair before attempting to use it again.
With these precautions in mind, you can confidently use your snake auger to dig holes quickly and easily!
Conclusion
Now that you know how to use a snake auger, you can handle most clogs yourself. Of course, there are always exceptions. If you have any questions about using your new tool or encounter a problem you can’t solve, don’t hesitate to call a professional. With this blog and your newly acquired skills, unclogging your drains should be a breeze!
Though it may seem daunting, using a snake auger is not difficult and can be done with little to no experience. With the right tools and patience, anyone can unclog their own drains without calling a professional – saving time and money.
Hopefully, this blog has given you all the information you need to get started using your snake auger with confidence. So what are you waiting for? Grab your tools and start digging today! Good luck!
