If your sink is draining slowly or not draining at all it may be time to snake the drain. Snaking a drain is relatively easy and can be done without having to call a plumber. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to snake a drain sink.
What You’ll Need
– A drain snake
– A bucket
– Rubber gloves
– Eye protection
Instructions
1. Remove the Sink Stopper
Start by removing the sink stopper. If your sink doesn’t have a stopper move on to Step 2. If your sink does have a stopper use a pair of pliers to remove it. If the stopper is difficult to remove you may need to use a screwdriver to loosen it first.
2. Clear the Area Around the Drain
Once the stopper is removed clear the area around the drain of any objects. This will give you more room to work and will help prevent any items from accidentally falling into the sink.
3. Insert the Drain Snake
Insert the drain snake into the drain. Push it down as far as you can until you feel resistance.
4. Turn the Drain Snake
Once the drain snake is inserted turn the handle in a clockwise direction. As you turn the handle the drain snake will coil around the inside of the drain breaking up any clogs.
5. Remove the Drain Snake
Once you’ve turned the handle a few times remove the drain snake from the drain. Be careful not to pull too hard as you don’t want to damage the drain.
6. Run Water Through the Drain
Turn on the water and let it run through the drain to flush out any debris that may have been loosened by the drain snake. If the water drains quickly and without any issue the clog has been cleared. If the water drains slowly or backs up repeat Steps 3-5 until the clog has been removed.
7. Replace the Sink Stopper
Once the clog has been cleared replace the sink stopper. If you had to use a screwdriver to remove the stopper be sure to tighten the screws before replacing the stopper.
8. Wash Your Hands
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris that may have gotten on them while you were snaking the drain.
And there you have it! Snaking a drain is a relatively easy process that can be done without having to call a plumber.
Why does my sink drain so slowly?
Most likely your drain is clogged with hair soap scum or grease.
How can I unclog my sink myself?
You can try to snake the drain yourself with a small hand-held drain auger.
What is the best way to prevent my drain from clogging?
The best way to prevent your drain from clogging is to use a drain catcher to catch hair soap scum and grease before it has a chance to go down the drain.
What is a drain auger?
A drain auger is a small hand-held device that is used to snake drains.
How do I use a drain auger?
To use a drain auger insert the auger into the drain and turn the handle in a clockwise direction.
As you turn the handle the auger will spiral down the drain breaking up the clog as it goes.
What is the best way to snake a drain?
The best way to snake a drain is to use a small hand-held drain auger.
Will a drain auger damage my pipes?
A drain auger is not likely to damage your pipes but if you are concerned you can always wrap the auger cable around a rag before inserting it into the drain.
How often should I snake my drain?
You should snake your drain whenever it seems to be running slowly.
What else can I do to unclog my drain?
If snaking the drain does not work you may need to use a plunger or a chemical drain cleaner.
What is a plunger?
A plunger is a tool that is used to force air down a drain in order to break up a clog.
How do I use a plunger?
To use a plunger place the plunger over the drain and push and pull the handle up and down.
The suction from the plunger will create a vacuum that will break up the clog.
What is a chemical drain cleaner?
A chemical drain cleaner is a caustic solution that is used to dissolve clogs.
How do I use a chemical drain cleaner?
To use a chemical drain cleaner pour the cleaner into the drain and let it sit for the amount of time specified on the bottle.
The chemical reaction will break up the clog.
Are chemical drain cleaners safe?
Chemical drain cleaners are caustic and can be harmful if used improperly.
Always follow the directions on the bottle and use caution when handling the cleaner.
What should I do if none of these methods work?
If none of these methods work you may need to call a plumber.
