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Can a Simple Retail Plumbing Snake Solve My Clogging Issues?

Posted on February 20, 2025 by Melbourne Plumber

Clogs are a way of life. When wastewater travels down your sink or shower drain, it carries with it all kinds of impurities. Some of them are solids while others are semi-solids. These particles will latch onto even the tiniest imperfection on the surface of the drain pipes. Over time, buildup will occur and you will inevitably get a clog in your drain.

Chemical Remedies

These products are essentially chemical abrasives which work to break down organic material in your clog. They take some time and will work on certain kinds of clogs. Still, they leave a lot of clogs unrepaired or only partially fixed. They really are lackluster when it comes to completely eliminating a clog.

Mechanical Remedy

The plumbing or drain snake is truly the best tool in any plumber’s arsenal. It physically reaches the blockage and grinds it out. This process may take some serious elbow grease but in the end it is worth the effort.

These tools can be bought at your local hardware store or online. They can be had for between $15 and $200, depending on the size and quality. Over-the-counter plumbing snakes work fine and I actually recommend that every household invests in having one.

In just 15 minutes you can have your drain flowing like new. Afterwards, you can soak and rinse the snake in the sink or even put in your dishwasher. Just make sure to use hot water and detergent to kill any bacteria or organisms that it may have collected.

If you don’t trust yourself with this process or are physically unable to work the plumbing snake, give your local plumber a call. They can usually be out to your home the same day and have your drain working again.