What is Snaking?
Snaking is the removal of small clogs through the use of a special hand-operated tool which runs along the inside of the drainage pipe.

How does Snaking work?
Snakes are devices which consist of a coiled metal wire attached to a crank at one end and an auger at the other.  The crank can be turned to rotate the wire as it makes its way down a pipe, and this ensures that the snake can remove clogs by either corkscrewing into whatever object is causing the clog and allowing it to then be pulled out (much like removing a cork from a wine bottle), or by cutting through whatever object is in the way (like drilling a hole through a solid object).

When would I need Snaking?
Snaking is appropriate for certain localized clogs that cannot be loosened with a plunger.  Snaking can be used for individual fixtures such as showers, tubs, sinks, toilets, or any other fixture with a clog which can be accessed through the fixture's drain.

What are the benefits of Snaking?
Snaking is quick, easy, and inexpensive.  For localized problems such as a clogged sink or toilet that is not affecting any other plumbing fixture, snaking is usually all that is required.  However, if you have had several fixtures snaked or had any of your fixtures snaked more than once during the past year, it may be indicative of more serious problems further down the drainage path.

Can my main sewer line be Snaked?
Although main sewer lines can also be snaked through a cleanout, Angel Plumbers recommends against this, as this is usually indicative of greater problems that cannot be permanently fixed by snaking.  In such instances, snaking will be a temporary solution at best.  For example, roots in the main sewer line can never be completely removed by snaking and will only grow back thicker the next time around.  Also, roots that are thick enough to cause persistent backups are indicative of greater structural problems in the pipes that need to be addressed immediately.  If either situation applies to you, be certain to mention it to our technicians so that they can find and fix the actual source of your problem. 

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