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| If your
sink is backed up but the clog isn't in the trap, it's
probably further in the drain system – in the drain
lines inside your walls. To reach this kind of clog,
you'll need a snake – a tool designed just for this
type of job. An inexpensive hand snake, sometimes
called an auger, comes with about 25 feet of flexible
steel cable that threads easily into drain lines. The
tip of the cable is designed to bore through
clogs or grab onto obstructions so you can pull them out.
With a little practice you'll be able to snake out a
clogged drain in no time. |
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 Remove the
trap and set it in a bucket. By hand, thread the end of
the snake into the drain line opening until it meets some
resistance. This usually means that the end of the snake
has reached a bend in the drain pipe. |
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 To get past
the bend, leave at least 6 inches of cable extending from
the opening and tighten the cable lock. Crank the snake
handle clockwise to move the end of the cable past the
bend, pushing gently on the cable as you do. |
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 Release the
lock and continue pushing the cable into the opening until
you feel firm resistance. Set the snake lock and crank the
handle clockwise. Solid resistance that prevents the cable
from advancing indicates there's a clog. Some clogs, such
as a sponge or an accumulation of hair, can be snagged and
pulled out (step 4). If you can advance the cable slowly,
you're probably boring through a soap clog (step 5). |
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 You can pull
an obstruction out of the line by releasing the snake lock
and cranking the handle clockwise to wind up the cable. If
the cable releases suddenly, it may have lost its grip on
the object and you'll have to try to snag it again. |
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 Bore through
the soap clog by cranking the snake handle clockwise while
applying steady pressure on the hand grip. Repeat the
procedure several times, then retrieve the cable. Rinse
the trap out in hot water (remember the drain line is
disconnected!) Inspect the slip nut washer for wear and
replace, if necessary. Reinstall the trap and tighten the
slip nuts. Reconnect the trap and flush the system with
hot water to remove debris. |
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RELATED PROJECTS
Clearing Sink Drains
with a Plunger
Fixing Leaky Sink
Strainers
Replacing Drain Traps
Unclogging a Sink Drain
Trap
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