Things to Know Before Snaking Your Sewer Line

There’s nothing more frustrating than a slow-draining drain or, even worse, a completely clogged one. Fortunately, there is a way to fix both. Snaking sewer lines and regular drains can unclog debris and prevent future blockages. 

Of course, depending on the type of drain or clog, snaking it yourself might cause further damage. So, it’s best to know everything about the procedure beforehand to do it safely or professionally. 

That’s why we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to snaking sewer lines and drains. Keep reading to learn the top things before doing them at home. 

Snaking Sewer Lines: The Basics  

Snaking sewer lines is a term for a particular drain cleaning method. It’s called “snaking” because the process is completed with a flexible, long metal cable resembling a snake. On the end of the “snake” is a coil called an “auger,” which clears the clog of blockages or debris. 

Signs You May Need to Snake Sewer Lines

Snaking sewer lines or drains is the same simple process. A plumber inserts the drain or sewer snake into the pipe or drain, cranks the handle, and the snake gets to work. As it goes further and further into the sewer pipe, it grabs hold of the clog and removes the blockage. 

But deciding you need to snake your drain isn’t so simple. There are, however, a few telltale signs that you might need to. If you are experiencing any of the following signs, it’s best to call a plumber for snaking sewer lines or drain lines or investigate further: 

• Slow draining: If water takes longer than usual to drain from sinks, bathtubs, or showers, it might indicate a clog.
• Frequent clogs: If you experience frequent clogs in your drains, particularly if multiple drains are affected, it could be a sign of a blockage in the main sewer line.
• Gurgling: Strange gurgling sounds coming from your toilet or drains may be the result of trapped air due to a blockage.
• Sewage backups: Any sign of sewage backup in your home, such as water backing up into a sink or tub when you flush the toilet, is a clear indicator of a major blockage.
• Unpleasant odors: Persistent foul odors from your drains or around your property can indicate a buildup of waste or a blockage in the sewer line.
• Water pooling: Water pooling around floor drains or in the yard, particularly after heavy water use in the home, may suggest a blocked sewer line.
• Toilet issues: Toilets that frequently clog, don’t flush properly, or overflow can indicate a deeper problem in the sewer line.
• Multiple affected fixtures: If more than one plumbing fixture in your home is experiencing issues simultaneously, it often points to a problem in the main sewer line.

Steps for Snaking Sewer Lines

Of course, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot these plumbing issues before snaking sewer lines or drains. 

Try Basic Solutions

If the issue is in sinks, toilets, or showers, try using a plunger first to dislodge clogs. A chemical drain cleaner or a homemade baking soda and vinegar solution may help with other minor clogs. If a sink is clogged, check the P-trap (the U-shaped pipe) under the sink for blockages.

Inspect for Obstructions

Check for visible obstructions in the drain openings and remove any debris or hair causing the blockage. The main sewer cleanout access point is typically located in the basement, crawl space, or outside the home. This will provide direct access to the sewer line.

Turn Off the Water Supply

Suppose you can’t resolve the issue yourself and need to call a professional. In that case, you may consider turning off the water supply to prevent additional water from entering the pipes and exacerbating the problem.

Plan for Clean-Up

Have cleaning supplies, such as rags, disinfectant, and a bucket, ready to clean up any spills or messes during snaking.

Preventing Future Clogs 

The key to avoiding additional snaking is preventing future clogs. Here are some tips to avoid clogging. 

• Dispose of grease properly: Never pour grease, fats, or oils down the drain. Instead, collect them in a container and dispose of them in the trash.
• Use drain screens: Install drain screens or strainers in sinks, showers, and tubs to catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter the pipes.

• Avoid flushing non-flushable items: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Do not flush wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, feminine hygiene products, and dental floss.
• Run hot water: Periodically run hot water down your kitchen sink to help dissolve and move along any grease or soap buildup.
• Be mindful of food waste: Use a garbage disposal properly by avoiding fibrous, starchy, or large food scraps. Scrape food waste into the trash or compost bin instead.

• Educate household members: Inform everyone about what can and cannot go down the drains to ensure proper usage.
• Tree root management: If trees are near your sewer lines, consider regular inspections and maintenance to prevent root intrusion, which can cause severe blockages.
• Proper hair disposal: After showering or brushing your hair, collect and dispose of any hair in the trash rather than letting it go down the drain.

Some homeowners opt for regular sewer line maintenance to catch clogs proactively before they occur. Another alternative to snaking sewer lines is hydrojetting. Hydrojetting uses high-pressure water, instead of a snaking tool, to clear pipes of blockages, buildup, and debris, ensuring your plumbing system operates efficiently.

Snaking Sewer Lines with WaterWork 

Snaking sewer lines or drains may be necessary if you’re experiencing a slow-draining drain or if it’s already clogged. As a homeowner, it’s always best to have a trusted plumbing service to call. If you’re in Metro Detroit, make WaterWork Plumbing your go-to for all your plumbing needs. 

We offer exemplary service at budget-friendly prices from White Lake to Berkley and everywhere in between. Save this guide when future drain issues arise, or share it with your fellow homeowners, friends, and family. 

Before you go, get even more how-to guides and stay connected by following WaterWork Plumbing on Facebook. Get in touch to schedule your regular hydro-jetting, snaking sewer lines, or other plumbing repairs now!