Yes, you can snake a bathtub drain. Snaking a bathtub drain is a relatively common DIY task that can be done to clear a clogged tub drain. While the exact instructions may vary depending on the specific model of the bathtub, generally you will need to remove the cover of the drain and attach the snake to the auger.
You should then slowly crank the snake into the drain in order to snake the drain and clear any build-up. Once the snake has worked its way past any clogs, you should be able to slowly crank the snake out of the drain and be able to enjoy a free-flowing fresh bathtub drain.
Can you damage a drain by snaking it?
Yes – it is possible to damage a drain by snaking it. Depending on the type of clog and the condition of the plumbing, improper snaking can cause damage to a drain, pipe, or line. If the snake is pushed too hard against a pipe wall, it can puncture or pull apart the liner or create a ledge or groove.
This is because the pipe is made of a softer material than the snake, and it can become crushed or deformed if the snake is used incorrectly. Additionally, if non-compatible chemicals or cleaners are used while snaking, the chemicals can react and damage the plumbing.
It’s important to consult a professional plumber on how to properly snake the drain or whether snaking will be effective for the type of clog present.
Can I plunge my bathtub?
Yes, you can plunge your bathtub. Plunging a bathtub can help you clear any clogs that may be causing drainage problems. The best way to plunge a bathtub is to fill it with several inches of water, then use a plunger to create a strong suction that will help unclog the drain.
You should also use a sink plunger, as opposed to a toilet plunger, so that the seal of suction is more effective. Additionally, adding a half cup of baking soda and vinegar can help break up blockages and make it easier for the plunger to work.
After you’re finished plunging, pour up to two quarts of boiling water down the drain to flush any remaining debris. If the clog persists after plunging, you may need to use a plumbing snake or seek professional help.
What do plumbers use to snake a drain?
Plumbers typically use drain snakes to clear clogged drains. This tool is designed to reach into clogged pipes and pull out those things that are blocking the flow of water. To use it, the plumber must insert the drain snake into the drain and then manually rotate it to snag, pull out, and break up whatever is causing the clog.
Drain snakes can be used to clear out hair, gunk, and debris from drains, as well as tree roots from the outside pipes. They come in multiple sizes and diameters, which allows the plumber to use the tool that is best suited for the job.
In some cases, more powerful electric drain snakes are also used to clear tougher clogs.
How do you clear a drain without snaking?
There are a number of ways to clear a drain without snaking.
1. Hot Water & Detergent: Boil a pot of water and then mix in a few tablespoons of dishwashing detergent. Slowly pour the hot water down the drain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This may help break up any sludge or debris in the pipe.
2. Baking Soda & Vinegar: Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain and then follow it with 1/2 cup of baking soda. Wait about 10-15 minutes and then pour a mixture of 1-part vinegar and 1-part boiling water down the drain.
The baking soda and vinegar will react, causing a foaming action. Wait another 10-15 minutes and then rinse out the drain with hot water.
3. Plunger: If the clog is in the drain pipe, you can use a plunger to attempt to clear it. Put the plunger over the drain, making sure to have a good seal. Pump it quickly a few times and the pressure from the plunger may help push the clog through.
4. Wire Hanger: Gather a wire hanger and a pair of pliers. Straighten out the wire hanger as much as you can and then fashion a hook on the end. Put the hook down into the drain as far as you can and pull out anything that could be blocking the drain.
If you tried all of these methods and the drain is still clogged, you may have to use the services of a plumber to snake the drain.
What should you not do with a clogged drain?
When dealing with a clogged drain, you should never try to force the issue through the use of harsh chemical cleaners. If you use products like drain cleaners and similar chemicals, you run the risk of damaging your pipes.
Additionally, you should not attempt to remove the obstruction with a wire coat hanger or any other type of tool. Not only is this a potentially dangerous action, but you can easily create a bigger problem.
If you create a larger blockage or worse, damage the pipes, you’ll have to hire an expensive plumber to come and resolve the issue. A better approach is to carefully remove the drain cover and see if the clog can be gently removed that way.
If it is unable to be removed, you can call in a plumber and they will be able to properly take care of the clog.
How do you get a snake past a P-trap in a bathtub?
First and foremost, it is important to stress that we should not attempt to get a snake past a p-trap in a bathtub unless we are certain that the snake is nonvenomous. If there is even the slightest chance the animal is venomous, it is best to contact a professional.
Assuming we have handled the safety aspect and determined the snake is indeed nonvenomous, the first step is to find a way to break the suction cup of the p-trap and remove it without hurting the snake.
To do this, it is best to use a pair of rubber gloves, taking care not to squeeze the snake in any way. Gently work out the p-trap from the tub, making sure not to hurt or traumatize the snake in the process.
Once the p-trap is out, it is important to inspect the snake for any stress or damage it may have incurred and provide it with fresh air. If the animal appears to be completely fine, it can be released outside away from any potential sources of danger.
If it is not possible to release the snake, it is best to contact a reptile rescue center. Professionals there are experienced enough to handle snakes, and they can also provide advice on how to deal with the situation.
Can you run a snake down a shower drain?
No, you cannot run a snake down a shower drain. Snake augers, or plumbing snakes, are used to remove blockages from pipes, however, they are designed for pipes that are at least an inch in diameter or larger.
The pipes used for a shower drain system are usually quite thin and would be too narrow for a snake to fit through, making it an ineffective device for clearing them. It’s also unlikely that a blockage in the shower drain would be deep enough to require a snake auger.
If a clog is present, the best solution is to use a plumbing snake designed for a shower drain or use a power auger to clear the clog.
Can you use a toilet auger in a bathtub?
Yes, you can use a toilet auger in a bathtub. A toilet auger is a plumbing tool used to unclog toilets, and it can be used to unclog a bathtub drain as well. You would just insert the auger into the drain and turn the handle of the auger to dislodge any clogs.
Plus, with a long enough auger, you can even clean out the trap beneath the bathtub as well. Be careful if you’re attempting to use a toilet auger in a bathtub drain, as certain pipes may be more fragile and you could potentially cause damage.
If there are metal pipes in your bathroom, it may be best to seek the help of a professional to unclog your bathtub drain instead.
How long does it take to snake a bathtub?
It usually takes around an hour to snake a bathtub. The time frame will depend on the size, shape, and build of the bathtub, as well as the kind of drain blockage and type of snake used. The process requires inspection to identify the issue and confirmation that snaking will fix the problem before starting the process.
Additionally, a professional plumber may need to be called in to snake the bathtub depending on the complexity of the task. To prepare for a snaking, all the water needs to be emptied from the tub and all fittings removed before the snake is inserted for the task.
Depending on the severity of the clog, the snake may need to go up to 15 feet down the drain. After the clog is removed, the plumber will test the water and clean the tub before putting everything back together.
Do snakes like baths?
No, snakes do not usually like baths. In the wild, snakes typically keep clean by rubbing up against rocks, leaf litter, and other rough surfaces to help shed dirt and parasites. Bathing snakes can actually cause them stress, as they can’t swim very well and feel trapped in the water.
Additionally, most snakes are ectothermic, meaning they can’t regulate their body temperature outside their natural environment. So even if water is at the same temperature as their reptile enclosure, they can still become stressed and overheat.
In order to clean a snake, many reptile keepers suggest spot cleaning rather than bathing the snake. Spot cleaning involves wiping the snake down with a damp, warm cloth. This helps to remove dirt and parasites without causing the same amount of stress that a bath would.
Can a snake damage PVC pipes?
Yes, a snake can damage PVC pipes if it attempts to burrow around them or if the snake happens to come into contact with the pipe and squeezes it enough with its body or coils. If the PVC pipe is not buried deeply enough or if there are small cracks and openings near it, the snake could manage to squeeze its way in resulting in a damaged or blocked pipe.
The snake might also produce corrosive fluids that can gradually affect the integrity of the PVC pipe as well. It is recommended to have PVC pipes buried deeply enough to prevent such problems. If a snake has already made its way inside the pipes, some snake repellents could help to get rid of them without causing any harm to the snake.
Should I snake my own drain?
No, it is not recommended that you snake your own drain as it may not address the root of the problem. Additionally, there are a few professional tools that could be needed in the process that you may not have access to.
It is always best to consult a professional plumber instead who can evaluate and resolve the issue quickly and efficiently. A professional plumber is certified, experienced, and familiar with the tools and techniques needed to get the job done quickly and effectively.
They can identify any underlying problems such as a broken pipe, tree root intrusion, or clogged sewer line and suggest a solution to remedy the problem. Before snaking a drain it is important to identify the underlying cause as this will determine the type of plumbing work that is required.
Professional plumbers can also recommend preventive measures to ensure that the same issue doesn’t happen in the future.
Is it better to snake a drain or use Drano?
When it comes to unclogging a drain, the best option depends on what type of blockage you’re dealing with. If the cause of the clog is non-living matter, like a collection of large food scraps or a tangled-up tuft of hair, using a drain snake is the best option.
A drain snake—also known as an auger—is a long, flexible metal coil that you feed down into the drain until it reaches the blockage. Then you simply spin the snake in a circular motion to break apart the blockage and clear it away.
On the other hand, if the cause of the clog is an accumulation of grease, soap scum, or other slimy material in the drain, then Drano is the best option. Drano is a strong, commercial-grade drain unclogger that works to chemically break up material blocking the drains.
In the case of a grease clog, Drano will actually break down the accumulated grease in the pipes, allowing it to easily wash down the drain.
It’s important to make sure you’re using the right tool for the job when it comes to unclogging a drain. In most cases, a drain snake or Drano will do the job; but if the blockage is more serious or if neither tool solves the issue, you may need to call a professional plumber to clear away the stubborn clog.
How do snakes get into plumbing?
Snakes may enter plumbing systems through a variety of ways. One of the most common ways is through open pipes and smaller areas they can squeeze through. They might find their way into cracked pipes, poor seals, defective or loose fittings, or even through exposed pipe connections.
Additionally, they could winds up down the toilet or sink if they are small enough or if items like food and toilet paper attract them in. On the other hand, they could enter homes if they find cracks along the foundation or if door thresholds are loose.
They might slither in through window frames and vents, too. In most cases, the entry point depends on how large (or small) the snake is and how accessible the area is.