A drain snake stuck in your pipes can turn a simple DIY fix into a plumbing nightmare.
If your auger won’t budge, don’t panic—there are ways to remove it without damaging your pipes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through why drain snakes get stuck, how to safely free them, and when to call a professional.
Whether you’re dealing with a minor clog or a major obstruction, understanding the right techniques can save you time, money, and frustration. Let’s dive in!
Why Do Drain Snakes Get Stuck?
Before you start pulling aggressively, it’s important to understand why your drain snake is stuck in the first place.
Here are the most common reasons:
1. The Snake is Tangled in Debris
- If your drain has hair, grease, or hardened buildup, the snake may wrap around the blockage instead of pushing it through.
- Over-rotating the auger can make the situation worse by wedging the clog deeper.
2. Old or Damaged Pipes
- If your pipes are corroded, cracked, or misaligned, the snake can get caught on rough edges or protrusions.
- Tree roots invading underground pipes are another common culprit.
3. Incorrect Use of the Drain Snake
- Forcing the snake too hard can cause it to kink or bend, making removal difficult.
- Using the wrong type of drain snake for the job—like a small hand auger for a large sewer clog—can lead to it getting lodged.
4. Pipe Traps and Sharp Turns
- Many household plumbing systems have traps and bends to prevent sewer gases from rising.
- A poorly maneuvered drain snake can easily get wedged at these tight angles.
Now that you understand what might be causing the issue, let’s go over how to fix it.
How to Safely Remove a Stuck Drain Snake
If your drain snake is stuck, the key is to stay calm and use a strategic approach. Follow these steps to free it without damaging your pipes.
1. Stop and Assess the Situation
- Don’t force the snake further into the drain.
- Try to recall if you felt resistance before it got stuck—this can help determine if it’s tangled in debris or caught on a pipe edge.
2. Gently Rotate the Snake in Reverse
- Turn the handle counterclockwise (if it’s a manual snake) to slowly unwind it.
- If you feel slight movement, continue this process until it loosens.
3. Use Hot Water or a Lubricant
- Pour a bucket of hot water down the drain if the clog is due to grease or soap buildup.
- If the snake is lodged in a tight turn, applying a small amount of dish soap or drain lubricant can help loosen its grip.
4. Use a Pipe Wrench for Extra Grip
- If the snake handle keeps slipping, use a pipe wrench to get a better grip.
- Gently wiggle and rotate the snake while applying steady pressure.
5. Try Pushing Instead of Pulling
- Sometimes, pushing the snake a little further can help reposition it for easier removal.
- Be careful—this method only works if you suspect it’s tangled in debris, not stuck in a damaged pipe.
6. When All Else Fails, Call a Plumber
- If none of the above methods work, it’s time to call a professional plumber.
- Continuing to yank on a deeply stuck snake can break it off inside the pipe, making the problem much worse.
When to Stop and Call a Professional
There are situations where DIY solutions won’t cut it. Call a licensed plumber if:
- The snake will not budge despite repeated efforts.
- You hear cracking noises—this could indicate pipe damage.
- You suspect a major clog, like tree roots or collapsed pipes.
- The drain remains fully clogged after removing the snake.
A professional plumber will have specialized tools like drain cameras and power augers to safely extract the snake without harming your pipes.
How to Prevent Your Drain Snake from Getting Stuck Again
The best way to deal with a stuck drain snake is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here’s how:
Use the Right Drain Snake for the Job
- Hand augers are great for sinks and tubs.
- Drum augers are better for deep clogs in household plumbing.
- Powered drain snakes (with a drill attachment) are best for tough, compacted blockages.
Avoid Over-Rotating the Snake
- Gently guide the auger through the drain without excessive force.
- If you meet resistance, pull back slightly before continuing forward.
Keep Your Drains Maintained
- Regularly flush your drains with hot water and vinegar to prevent buildup.
- Use a hair catcher in bathroom sinks and tubs.
Know When to Use Alternatives
- For grease or soap clogs, try enzymatic drain cleaners before snaking.
- For deep sewer blockages, hydro jetting is often a better solution.
By following these tips, you can avoid the headache of dealing with a stuck drain snake in the future!
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Stuck Drain Snake Worsen Your Plumbing Issues
A stuck drain snake can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can often remove it safely.
The key is patience, the right tools, and knowing when to call for help.
If you’re struggling with a clogged drain or a stuck auger, True Service Plumbing is here to help!
Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Services with True Service Plumbing
When it comes to drain cleaning and plumbing repairs in Toronto and the GTA, True Service Plumbing is the name homeowners trust.
Our experienced professionals handle everything from drain snake extractions to full pipe repairs and hydro jetting solutions.
Stuck drain snake? Persistent clog? Need expert drain cleaning?
Don’t wait—contact True Service Plumbing today for fast, reliable service!
