A plumbing snake is an ideal tool for getting rid of clogs. However, it’s only a good tool if it is working properly. There are a lot of reasons why your snake is not unclogging the drain. For instance, the auger might be dirty, the clog is extremely dense, or the thumbscrew is loose.  

A plumbing snake is a cheap and simple item that all homeowners need to have. However, a faulty or broken plumbing snake can be very frustrating. Because of this, it’s extremely crucial to fix it right away.  

Hiring plumbers in Wilmington DE to fix a clog is the best thing you can do. However, if you want to do it yourself, here are some tips on how to fix your plumbing snake: 

What Should You Do If Your Plumbing Snake Isn’t Working? 

There are a couple of things you should try if your plumbing snake isn’t working properly. These things include: 

  • Utilizing a Different Form of Plumbing Snake 

It might be time to use a different type of plumbing snake if the one you have isn’t doing its job. If you’re unclogging a bathroom sink, try to use a small drum auger. If you’re unclogging a toilet, try to use a toilet snake.  

  • Tighten the Thumbscrew 

Tighten the thumbscrew that locks the wire in place. This will help feed the wire into the drain. Next, turn the handle of the snake clockwise and push to get the wire inside the drain.  

Then, loosen the thumbscrew and slide up the handle back to the wire. You will have to repeat the process. This will help you unclog the drain.  

  • Clean the Drain Snake 

The old clog might still be embedded on the end of the auger if you have not cleaned the tool since using it last. Keep in mind that you’ve got to clean your plumbing snake every time you use it. 

Types of Plumbing Snakes 

There are a couple of various forms of drain snakes. This includes: 

  • Extra Long Drain Auger 

This is the form of plumbing snake that you’ll use for deep clogs. Usually, this is ideal for pipes or drains.  

  • Small Drum Auger 

This is the type of plumbing snake you’ll use for bathroom or kitchen clogs.  

  • Toilet Auger 

This is the form of plumbing snake that you’ll use for unclogging the toilet.  

Reasons Why Your Plumbing Snake Isn’t Working 

There are a couple of reasons why your plumbing snake isn’t working properly. This includes: 

  • You’re Using the Wrong Form of Drain Snake 

Extra long drain auger, small drum auger, and toilet auger are a couple of the most popular forms of drain snakes. Thus, you should use the correct type of auger for the clog.  

  • The Clog is Too Big 

There are a couple of clogs that are too severe for a hand drain snake. If so, you will need to hire a professional plumber for help. 

  • The Old Clog is Still Attached 

Are you utilizing an old drain snake? Did you use it before? If so, there’s a huge possibility that the old clog is still attached. Make sure you clean it before you use it again.