A plumber s snake or drain auger is a tool that reaches down into pipes to remove clog causing blockage.
Using a drain snake.
To use a drain snake to clear a clog in a sink drain pipe follow these steps.
Optional but recommended remove the p trap which is the bent pipe that sits right below the sink.
The basic process is as follows.
Snakes make up the middle ground between common household plungers and the really big guns if you re dealing with a clog too stubborn for your plunger then a snake is your best chance to clear it out yourself.
If you have confirmed that you have a main sewer line clog you may wish to attempt to clear it yourself.
This component can become damaged when using a plumber s snake so it s best to remove and protect it.
The auger begins its journey down the drain.
A sewer drain snake is used to clear a main line stoppage.
Push the end of the snake into the drain opening and turn the handle on the drum that contains the coiled up snake.
Fortunately like other drain snakes a sewer drain snake can be rented for the day from a tool and equipment rental location.
The equipment is easy to use but ask the dealer for operating instructions.
Keep pushing more of the snake into the drain until you feel resistance.