If your kitchen sink is backed up and you’ve tried everything else it might be time to use a plumbing snake. Snake is a common name for a long flexible coil of wire that is used to unclog a drain.
If you’ve never used a snake before don’t worry. It’s not as difficult as it sounds. With a little patience and some practice you’ll be a pro in no time.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
1. Take the cover off of your drain. This will give you access to the drain trap which is the U-shaped pipe beneath your sink.
2. Insert the snake into the drain trap. Push it down until you feel resistance.
3. Start turning the handle of the snake. As you turn the snake will coil around the drain trap and start to break up the clog.
4. Keep turning the handle until you feel the clog start to give way. Then start pulling the snake out of the drain.
5. Remove the clog from the snake and dispose of it properly.
6. Rinse the drain trap with hot water to remove any debris.
7. Put the cover back on the drain and test the sink to make sure the clog is gone.
If you’re still having trouble you may need to use a power auger. This is a similar tool but it has a motor that helps to turn the snake.
power augers are available for rent at most hardware stores.
With a little patience and the right tool you can clear any clog from your kitchen sink.
What is a plumbing snake?
A plumbing snake is a long flexible coil that is used to clear blockages in drains and pipes.
How does a plumbing snake work?
A plumbing snake is inserted into the drain or pipe and is then twirled or pushed and pulled through the pipe to clear the blockage.
What are some of the benefits of using a plumbing snake?
Plumbing snakes are relatively inexpensive easy to use and can be used on most types of drains and pipes.
How do you use a plumbing snake on a kitchen sink?
First remove the sink stopper and insert the plumbing snake into the drain.
Next push and pull the snake through the drain to clear the blockage.
Finally replace the sink stopper and run the water to check for leaks.
What should you do if the plumbing snake becomes stuck in the drain?
If the plumbing snake becomes stuck in the drain you should try to remove it with a pair of pliers.
If you are unable to remove the snake you may need to call a plumber.
What are some of the risks of using a plumbing snake?
If used incorrectly a plumbing snake can damage drains and pipes.
Additionally snakes can become tangled or stuck which may require the assistance of a plumber.
How can you avoid damaging drains and pipes when using a plumbing snake?
When using a plumbing snake be careful not to force the snake through the drain or pipe.
Additionally be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
What should you do if the plumbing snake does not clear the blockage?
If the plumbing snake does not clear the blockage you may need to use a plunger or call a plumber.
What are some of the signs that there is a clog in your kitchen sink?
Some of the signs that there is a clog in your kitchen sink include water that drains slowly water that backs up into the sink and a gurgling sound coming from the drain.
Can a plumbing snake be used on all types of drains?
No a plumbing snake should not be used on all types of drains.
What type of drain should a plumbing snake not be used on?
A plumbing snake should not be used on a garbage disposal.
How often should you use a plumbing snake on your kitchen sink?
You should use a plumbing snake on your kitchen sink as needed.
What should you do after using a plumbing snake on your kitchen sink?
After using a plumbing snake be sure to run the water to check for leaks.
What are some of the things that you should not put down your kitchen sink?
Some of the things that you should not put down your kitchen sink include grease food scraps and coffee grounds.
What should you do if your kitchen sink is still clogged after using a plumbing snake?
If your kitchen sink is still clogged after using a plumbing snake you may need to use a plunger or call a plumber.