How To Snake A Bathtub Drain: A Simple Guide!

A clogged bathtub drain can be a frustrating and inconvenient problem. Fortunately, it’s usually a problem that you can fix yourself with a little elbow grease and the right tools. One of the most effective ways to unclog a bathtub drain is to snake it.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following tools and materials:

• Drain snake (manual or electric)
• Bucket
• Rags
• Flashlight (optional)

Safety Precautions

• Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any sharp objects or chemicals.
• Ensure the bathtub is empty before starting.
• If you’re using an electric drain snake, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Snake Bathtub Drain

1. Remove the Drain Stopper

• Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the drain stopper.
• If the stopper is stuck, you may need to apply some penetrating oil around the edges and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again.

2. Insert the Drain Snake

• Insert the drain snake into the drain hole.
• If you’re using a manual snake, turn the handle clockwise to feed the snake into the drain.
• If you’re using an electric snake, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Feed the Snake into the Drain

• Continue feeding the snake into the drain until you feel resistance or reach the end of the blockage.
• If you encounter any resistance, slowly work the snake back and forth to loosen the blockage.

4. Break Up the Blockage

• Once you’ve reached the blockage, use the snake to break it up.
• If the blockage is soft, such as hair or soap scum, you can usually break it up by simply turning the snake.
• If the blockage is hard, such as mineral deposits or tree roots, you may need to use a special attachment on the snake to break it up.

5. Remove the Blockage

• Once the blockage is broken up, slowly pull the snake out of the drain.
• As you pull the snake out, any debris will come with it.
• Use a bucket to catch the debris as it comes out.

6. Flush the Drain

• Once the snake is removed, flush the drain with hot water to remove any remaining debris.
• You can also use a drain cleaner to help dissolve any remaining buildup.

7. Reinstall the Drain Stopper

• Once the drain is unclogged, reinstall the drain stopper.

Tips for Successful Drain Snaking

• If you’re not sure where the blockage is, start by feeding the snake into the drain slowly and carefully.
• If you’re using a manual snake, don’t force it. If you encounter resistance, slowly work the snake back and forth to loosen the blockage.
• If you’re using an electric snake, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Be patient. It may take some time to break up the blockage and unclog the drain.

When to Call a Plumber

If you’re unable to unclog the drain yourself, or if the blockage is particularly severe, it’s best to call a plumber. They have the experience and equipment to quickly and effectively unclog your drain.

Takeaways: Bathtub Drain Unclogging Made Easy

Snaking a bathtub drain is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to unclog a drain. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself the time and expense of calling a plumber.

What You Need to Know

Q: How often should I snake my bathtub drain?
A: It’s a good idea to snake your bathtub drain every few months, or more often if you have long hair or use a lot of hair products.

Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner instead of a drain snake?
A: Chemical drain cleaners can be effective in some cases, but they can also be harsh on your pipes. If possible, it’s better to use a drain snake first.

Q: What if I can’t remove the drain stopper?
A: If you can’t remove the drain stopper, you may need to use a special tool called a drain key. You can usually find these at your local hardware store.