What is a Snaking

Snaking is a common and effective method used in drain cleaning and maintenance to remove obstructions from pipes and sewers. The term refers to the use of a flexible tool known as a drain snake or plumbing auger, which is inserted into the drainage system to break up, retrieve or push through clogs. Snaking is typically performed when conventional plunging fails to clear the blockage and is widely used in both domestic and commercial drainage systems.

The tool itself, often resembling a long, coiled wire, can navigate the bends and turns of pipework to reach blockages located several metres away from the access point. Snaking is particularly valuable because it is non-destructive, can be performed relatively quickly, and is suitable for use in systems made of various pipe materials.

When Is Snaking Used?

Snaking is primarily used to address partial or complete blockages in household or underground drainage pipes. Common scenarios include:

• Slow-draining sinks or baths

• Recurring toilet blockages

• Accumulated food waste in kitchen drains

• Grease build-up in waste pipes

• Tree root ingress in external pipework

• Hair and soap scum in bathroom pipework

• Foreign objects lodged in small diameter pipes

In most cases, snaking is used before more invasive methods such as high-pressure water jetting or pipe excavation. It can also be employed as a diagnostic step prior to a CCTV survey if the blockage prevents camera access.

Types of Drain Snakes

Drain snakes come in a variety of designs, each suited to different pipe sizes, materials and blockage types. The main categories include:

1. Manual Hand Auger

A simple, handheld device with a coiled spring and rotating handle. Ideal for light domestic use, especially in small-diameter sink or shower drains. The cable is fed manually into the pipe, and the handle is turned to break through or entangle the clog.

2. Power Auger (Electric Drain Snake)

Powered by a motor, this type of snake is capable of handling more stubborn or deep-set blockages. The rotating cable can extend 10 metres or more, depending on the model, and is typically used by professionals. It requires careful handling to avoid damage to pipe walls or joints.

3. Drum Machine

A heavy-duty version used for long pipe runs, often found in commercial or municipal applications. The cable is stored in a rotating drum, and different cutting heads can be attached to the end depending on the type of blockage.

4. Toilet Auger

A short, curved tool designed specifically for clearing blockages in toilets without damaging the porcelain or internal trap.

Each of these tools is selected based on pipe diameter, blockage location and accessibility.

How Snaking Works

The process of snaking a drain involves several steps:

1. Access Point Identification
   The technician locates the appropriate access point to insert the snake. This could be a plughole, rodding eye, or inspection chamber, depending on where the blockage is suspected.

2. Cable Insertion
   The snake’s flexible cable is fed into the pipe, with the goal of reaching the obstruction. The technician may encounter bends, junctions or changes in pipe diameter during this stage.

3. Blockage Engagement
   Once resistance is felt, the technician rotates the handle (manual) or activates the motor (power unit). The spinning motion helps the snake either bore through the blockage or hook onto it.

4. Clearing the Obstruction
   The snake may break up the clog into smaller pieces that can be flushed away, or it may pull the debris out with the cable. If tree roots or hard obstructions are involved, a cutting head may be used.

5. System Testing
   After the blockage is removed, water is run through the system to confirm free flow. In some cases, a CCTV inspection may follow to assess pipe condition or identify residual build-up.

This method requires skill and experience, particularly when using powered machines, to avoid pipe damage or incomplete clearing.

Advantages of Snaking

Snaking is widely preferred in certain situations due to its many advantages:

• Non-invasive: It can often clear blockages without the need to dismantle pipework or excavate

• Cost-effective: Especially for simple domestic issues, snaking is faster and cheaper than more complex methods

• Flexible: Snakes can navigate bends, traps and junctions that other tools cannot

• Safe for most pipes: If used correctly, snaking poses minimal risk to PVC, cast iron or clay pipes

• Immediate results: In many cases, the blockage is removed on the spot, with instant flow restoration

Limitations of Snaking

Despite its effectiveness, snaking is not suitable for all drainage problems. Limitations include:

• Temporary solution: It may not fully clear greasy or layered build-ups, leading to recurring blockages

• Not suitable for collapsed pipes: If structural damage is present, snaking cannot repair or bypass it

• Limited reach: Manual snakes have relatively short reach, making them ineffective for long pipe runs

• Less effective for root ingress: While minor roots may be disturbed, significant root blockages require specialist cutting or jetting

In some cases, snaking is used in combination with other methods such as high-pressure water jetting or chemical cleaning to achieve long-term results.

Maintenance and Safety Considerations

Proper use and maintenance of snaking equipment are essential for safe operation and effective outcomes. Technicians must be trained in:

• Recognising pipe materials and adjusting force accordingly

• Selecting the correct auger type and head for the blockage

• Preventing cable kinks, breakage or backspin

• Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Cleaning and disinfecting equipment after use to prevent contamination

Homeowners using DIY hand augers should follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and avoid forcing the cable, which can cause damage or injury.

Snaking vs. Jetting

While both snaking and jetting are used to clear blockages, they differ in method and application:

In professional practice, technicians often begin with snaking and proceed to jetting if deeper cleaning is required.

Regulatory and Industry Context

Snaking is recognised as a standard method of drain clearance in the UK plumbing and drainage sector. It is commonly used by:

• Drainage contractors

• Plumbers

• Water company operatives

• Facilities maintenance teams

While no specific licence is required to perform snaking, health and safety regulations apply, particularly under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) and Manual Handling Operations Regulations.

Where drain cleaning is performed in commercial settings or near sensitive environments (e.g. food preparation areas), operators may need additional certification or to follow specific hygiene protocols.

When to Call a Professional

While minor blockages in a sink or bath may be addressed with a domestic hand auger, more serious or persistent clogs should be handled by a qualified drainage professional. Warning signs include:

• Foul smells from multiple drains

• Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system

• Repeated slow draining

• Water backing up into lower-level fixtures

• Overflow from external inspection chambers

A professional will have the tools and experience to diagnose the cause, clear the blockage and identify any underlying issues such as pipe damage or fatbergs.

Conclusion

Snaking is a time-tested and widely used technique for removing blockages from pipes and drains. Whether performed manually with a hand auger or using powered machinery, it provides a non-invasive and cost-effective method of restoring flow in residential, commercial and industrial drainage systems.

Though it has limitations, snaking remains a valuable first-line tool for drainage professionals and homeowners alike. With correct use and regular maintenance, it can extend the life of plumbing infrastructure and reduce the risk of costly repairs.