You open your bathroom cabinet to get a washcloth and you find it empty. You check the drain and see a long, thin object. You yelp as you realize what it is: a snake! While most snakes are harmless and not interested in climbing up your drain pipes, some are poisonous.
It could be either type wriggling around down there, but whichever kind it is, we hope this article will help you safely remove it from your home so that your family can go back to using its toilet again (and maybe even enjoy their next meal!).
Takeaways |
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Proper techniques are required to safely and effectively remove a stuck snake from a pipe. |
Applying gentle maneuvers and avoiding excessive force can help prevent further damage. |
Lubricants designed for plumbing purposes may aid in freeing a stuck snake. |
If DIY methods are unsuccessful or there’s a risk of damage, it’s best to contact a professional plumber. |
Seeking professional assistance ensures the safe and efficient resolution of stuck snake situations. |
Call A Plumber
You can contact a plumber to help you. A plumber is trained and experienced in dealing with problems such as this, and will likely have the tools necessary to get the snake unstuck. They should also be able to tell you if there’s a blockage or not so that you can take appropriate action.
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Use The Ol’ Snake-On-A-Stick
It’s a tried-and-true method. You put the snake on a stick, and then you shove it down into your blocked pipe.
The snake will move around in there, loosening up any blockages that might be holding up your drain. Eventually, it’ll get tired and come right out of the pipe when you pull it back out!
Tool | Description |
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Ol’ Snake-On-A-Stick | Traditional tool consisting of a long stick with a snake-catching attachment at the end, typically used for safe snake handling. |
Snake Grabber | Device with a grip mechanism designed to securely hold snakes during capture and relocation. |
Snake Hook | Long, curved tool with a hook at one end, used to handle snakes at a safe distance without direct contact. |
Snake Tongs | Instrument with two tong-like arms operated by a handle, enabling controlled snake handling without harm to the handler or the snake. |
Snake Bag | Bag specifically designed for safely capturing and transporting snakes, minimizing the risk of escape or injury. |
Comparing Snake Handling Tools
In this table, we compare different tools used for snake handling, including the Ol’ Snake-On-A-Stick, Snake Grabber, Snake Hook, Snake Tongs, and Snake Bag. Each tool offers a specific approach to safely handle snakes, allowing for effective capture, relocation, or transport while minimizing harm to both the handler and the snake. Choose the tool that best suits your needs and preferences to ensure safe and responsible snake handling.
Use A Snake Trap
Once you’ve finished building your snake trap, it’s time to set it up.
Put the trap in an area where you know snakes are likely to be. As we mentioned earlier, snakes like shady areas near rocks and woodpiles, so try setting up your trap there.
Make sure that nothing is getting in or out of the pipe where your trap will be located (like a mouse hole). If there are any holes larger than an inch around, seal them with duct tape or plastic wrap until after you catch a snake and release it outside of your home!
When everything is set up and ready to go, give yourself some time to relax before heading back out into town you’ll need some energy if this plan goes off without a hitch!
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Remove The Trap And Use Cutters On The Snakes’ Head
If the trap is still in place, remove it with a pair of heavy-duty pliers. Afterward, grab some heavy-duty snips and cut off the snake’s head. It may be tempting to use your teeth, but remember:
This snake could have been poisonous! Make sure you have gloves on while doing this task—it will keep you from getting any venom into your system.
Method | Description |
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Removing the Trap | Taking apart or disassembling the trap to gain access to the snake. |
Using Cutters on the Snake’s Head | Utilizing cutters or tools to safely remove the snake’s head from the trap. |
Comparing Methods for Removing a Snake from a Trap
In this table, we compare two methods for removing a snake from a trap. The first method involves removing the trap itself by disassembling or taking it apart to access the snake. The second method suggests using cutters or specialized tools to carefully remove the snake’s head from the trap, allowing for its safe release. Consider the effectiveness, safety precautions, and feasibility of each method before deciding on the appropriate approach to handle a trapped snake.
Try Flushing Your Pipes With Vinegar And Hot Water
If your snake is still stuck, you can try using a solution of vinegar and water to soften the blockage. To do this, mix one part white vinegar with three parts hot water in a bucket. Once you have created your cleaning solution, pour it down the drain and let it sit for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes have passed, flush the mixture through your pipes by turning on the nearest sink full blast or putting in an open plug and running some hot water from that source into the drainpipe until everything is clear.
While this will usually work to unblock most clogs caused by hair or other organic matter, if it does not remove your snake’s blockage then move onto step 5 immediately
Method | Description |
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Vinegar and Hot Water | Flushing the pipes using a mixture of vinegar and hot water. |
Chemical Drain Cleaners | Using commercially available chemical drain cleaners. |
Hydro Jetting | Utilizing high-pressure water jets to clear the pipes. |
Plumber’s Snake (Drain Auger) | Employing a flexible tool to physically remove blockages. |
Enzyme Drain Cleaners | Utilizing natural enzymes to break down organic matter. |
Comparing Pipe Flushing Methods
In this table, we compare different methods for flushing pipes, including using Vinegar and Hot Water, Chemical Drain Cleaners, Hydro Jetting, Plumber’s Snake (Drain Auger), and Enzyme Drain Cleaners. Each method offers a unique approach to clearing pipe blockages and improving water flow. Consider the effectiveness, convenience, and safety factors when choosing the most suitable method for your specific needs.
Bait It Out With A Dead Mouse
You could place a dead mouse in a plastic bag and use it as bait. You can also use an applicator stick, or other long object that’s thin enough to fit inside the pipe, to push into the mouse hole and lure out your snake.
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Use Muriatic Acid To Break Up The Blockage
If you have a stuck snake and are unable to pull it out, you may need to use a drain snake to clear the blockage.
But before you do, be sure that your pipes don’t contain any leaks or corrosion. If they do, seek out professional help from a plumber.
Using muriatic acid is yet another way to get your snake unstuck and back where it belongs in your pipe! Muriatic acid can be dangerous if not handled properly; please wear gloves and safety goggles when using this chemical agent.
Also make sure that you have plenty of ventilation while using this method as well.
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Build An Indoor Ramp To Guide The Snake Out Of The Drain
If you’re having trouble getting your snake out of the drain, try building an indoor ramp. This works best if you have a cardboard box and a piece of wood.
Simply place the ramp over the drain and guide your snake out of it. If it still won’t come out, try another method!
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Conclusion
So there you have it, the top 9 ways to get a stuck snake out of the pipes. Hopefully one of these solutions will be the one that gets your snake out of your drain!
Remember, if none of them work, don’t panic because there are always other options. You could try calling a professional plumber who has experience with these kinds of situations or even just call an expert in snakes and ask for advice.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources related to getting a stuck snake out of a pipe:
How to Get a Broken Snake out of a Drain Pipe: Learn effective techniques and methods for safely removing a broken plumbing snake from a drain pipe. Discover step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to tackle this challenging situation.
Troubleshooting a Stuck Plumbing Snake: Find troubleshooting advice and expert tips for dealing with a stuck plumbing snake. Explore different approaches to free the snake and ensure smooth operation during drain cleaning tasks.
How to Get a Stuck Snake/Sewer Cable out of the Pipe on the Roof: Discover techniques specifically designed to remove a stuck snake or sewer cable from a pipe located on the roof. This resource provides practical solutions and preventive measures to avoid such situations.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about getting a stuck snake out of a pipe:
How did my snake get stuck in the pipe?
A snake can get stuck in a pipe due to various reasons, such as obstructions, bends, or entanglement with debris. It’s essential to exercise caution when using a snake to avoid these situations.
What should I do if my snake gets stuck?
If your snake gets stuck in a pipe, remain calm and avoid forcing it further. Assess the situation and try gentle maneuvers to dislodge or retract the snake. If unsuccessful, consider seeking professional assistance.
Can I use lubricants to free a stuck snake?
In some cases, applying a lubricant to the pipe may help in freeing a stuck snake. However, it’s important to use lubricants specifically designed for plumbing purposes and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Are there any DIY methods to remove a stuck snake?
Several DIY methods can be attempted to remove a stuck snake, such as using a reverse rotation technique, applying controlled force, or employing specialized retrieval tools. However, these methods should be used with caution to avoid further damage.
When should I call a professional plumber?
If you’re unable to resolve the issue or if there’s a risk of causing damage to the pipe or plumbing system, it’s advisable to contact a professional plumber. They have the expertise and specialized tools to handle stuck snake situations safely and efficiently.
I am Dr Hellen James a veterinarian, pet lover, and writer. I have many years of experience caring for pets, including dogs, cats, birds, and fish (and even axolotls!). I love spending time with the animals in my life, especially when they are sick or need love.