Drain Snaking Myths That Waste Your Time and Money

When a clog slows down your sink or shower, it’s tempting to reach for the first over-the-counter drain snake you can find. Some homeowners even twist a wire coat hanger into the drain, hoping for a quick fix. While these tactics might feel productive in the moment, they rarely solve the real issue. In many cases, they make things worse by damaging pipes or pushing debris deeper. For reliable and lasting results, it’s important to understand what drain snaking can and can’t do. As a trusted drain cleaning company, Locklear Plumbing has seen how these myths cost homeowners time, money, and in many cases, more serious damage.

When you need results without the guesswork, professional drain cleaning in Calhoun, GA is the smarter approach.

The DIY Drain Snake Trap

Store-bought snakes are small tools meant for very limited uses. Their reach and strength are minimal, which means they only skim the surface of what is often a much larger clog. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, fats, oils, and grease are responsible for nearly 47% of sewer blockages nationwide, yet a hardware store snake isn’t built to break through these dense buildups. Even worse, forcing a snake through older pipes can scratch the lining, weaken joints, or dislodge fittings. In some cases, a DIY attempt to snake a clogged drain can push the obstruction deeper, compacting the debris and making the job more complex—and more expensive—when a professional eventually steps in.

Not Every Clog Needs a Snake

Another common myth is that drain snaking is the cure-all for any slow or blocked drain. The truth is that many clogs aren’t simple obstructions that can be poked through with a coil. Tree roots, mineral deposits, and hardened grease can’t be removed by a standard snake. In fact, a report from the American Water Works Association highlights that tree root intrusion is one of the leading causes of pipe blockages across the country. When these types of clogs are present, a snake won’t solve the problem. Instead, professional drain cleaning services combine inspection technology, like video cameras, with the right treatment methods, ensuring the clog is removed fully and safely.

When You Need More Than a Tool

At Locklear Plumbing, we don’t rely on guesswork. Our technicians use industry-proven techniques and specialized equipment to identify the exact source of your clogged drain. If drain snaking is the right solution, we’ll use professional-grade tools designed for safety and efficiency. If not, we’ll recommend the proper method so the problem is handled correctly the first time. This approach not only protects your pipes but also saves water and prevents repeated clogs.

Trust a Professional Team

The average household leak wastes more than 10,000 gallons of water each year, according to the EPA. Left untreated, clogged drains contribute to this waste while also threatening the health and lifespan of your plumbing system. That’s why it pays to work with experts who understand the full picture. Trust a drain cleaning company that knows when to use a snake and when to go beyond it. Call Locklear Plumbing today for thorough, professional solutions you can count on.