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What Is Drain Snaking? How It Works and When to Use It.

Updated: Nov 13

Drain snaking is one of the most common and time-tested methods for clearing clogged pipes. Whether you’re dealing with a backed-up kitchen sink or a slow-draining bathtub, it’s often the first technique a plumber uses to break through a blockage. But what exactly is drain snaking, how does it work, and when is it time to upgrade to something stronger like hydro jetting? Let’s break it down.


Manual Drain Snake
Manual Drain Snake

What Is Drain Snaking?


Drain snaking is a method used to remove clogs from plumbing pipes using a tool called a plumber’s snake or drain auger. The snake is a long, flexible metal cable with a coil or corkscrew-like tip that breaks through or grabs onto clogs inside a pipe.


There are two main types:


  • Manual drain snakes – operated by hand and best for small, shallow clogs.

  • Motorized drain snakes – powered by a motor, often used by professional plumbers for deeper or tougher blockages.


How Does Drain Snaking Work?


Here’s a step-by-step look at how the process works:


  1. Insert the snake into the drain – The cable is fed into the drain opening and pushed through the pipe.

  2. Twist and maneuver – The plumber rotates the handle or activates the motor to spin the tip, helping it grab or break through the blockage.

  3. Pull out the clog – If the tip grabs debris (like hair or food waste), it can be pulled back out. If it breaks up the clog, water flow is restored.

  4. Test the drain – The plumber runs water to ensure the blockage is fully cleared.


Plumber introducing Drain Snake in a Tub
Plumber introducing Drain Snake in a Tub

When Is Drain Snaking Needed?


Drain snaking is ideal for:


  • Hair clogs in bathroom sinks and tubs.

  • Food buildup in kitchen drains.

  • Minor grease blockages.

  • Toilet paper or hygiene product clogs in toilets.

  • Clogs in shallow or moderately deep plumbing lines.


It’s a reliable method for localized clogs that aren’t part of a bigger sewer or mainline issue.


Pros of Drain Snaking.


  • Quick fix – Can clear most basic clogs in minutes.

  • Affordable – Typically less expensive than advanced methods.

  • Non-invasive – Doesn’t require opening walls or digging.

  • Safe for most pipes – Especially when used correctly.


Cons of Drain Snaking.


  • Doesn’t clean pipe walls – Only opens a path through the clog.

  • May miss deeper issues – Doesn’t fix underlying buildup or root intrusion.

  • Clogs can return – If buildup is left on pipe walls, the blockage can come back.

  • Not ideal for heavy grease or solid obstructions.


Drain Snake inside a Drain
Drain Snake inside a Drain

When Snaking Isn’t Enough: Enter Hydro Jetting.

If you’ve had a drain snaked but the problem keeps returning—or if the blockage is deeper or more severe—hydro jetting is often the next step.


Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water (up to 4,000 PSI) to blast through clogs and clean the inside of your pipes. It not only clears the blockage but scrubs away grease, sludge, and even tree roots


Check information of our Hydro Jetting Service here: https://www.logicalrooterla.com/hydro-jetting-plumbing


Drain Snaking vs Hydro Jetting Chart - Explore the Differences.
Drain Snaking vs Hydro Jetting Chart - Explore the Differences


Common Questions About Drain Snaking.

Is drain snaking safe for old pipes? Yes, in most cases. Manual snakes are gentle enough for older systems, but always have a plumber assess the condition of your pipes first.


Can I snake my drain myself? Small clogs? Maybe. But if the blockage doesn’t clear or keeps coming back, call a professional. DIY snakes can get stuck or damage pipes if used improperly.


How often should I snake my drains? There’s no fixed schedule. Use it as needed for slow drains or clogs. But recurring issues could signal the need for hydro jetting or a camera inspection.


Will drain snaking fix sewer line clogs? It might help minor blockages, but most mainline issues require more powerful tools like hydro jetting or trenchless repair.


Drain snake taking off paper from a clogged drain.
Drain snake taking off paper from a clogged drain.

Conclusion.

Drain snaking is a useful, affordable way to clear many common plumbing clogs. But it’s not a cure-all. If you find yourself snaking the same drain over and over, or if the clog is deeper in your system, it’s time to consider hydro jetting.


At Logical Rooter, we offer both drain snaking and hydro jetting services across Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. We’ll inspect your system, recommend the best solution, and get your water flowing again fast.



Check our Drain Snaking Service information here: https://www.logicalrooterla.com/drain-snaking


Need help with a stubborn clog? Call Logical Rooter today for expert drain cleaning solutions.



Logical Rooter.

Phone number: (626) 710-6268 or (800) 657-2917





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