Struggling with a rented snake drain cleaner that won’t advance in the pipe – any tips for getting it to make the turn?
Asked by Kayla Smith 
3 weeks ago
Last Updated: November 3, 2024
Hey there!
I rented a snake drain cleaner earlier today and I’m having a bit of trouble with it. I can only get the beginning of the head into the pipe before it stops moving any further. It seems like it’s hitting the bottom right before the pipe turns and it won’t go any further. I’ve tried adjusting the angle, but no luck.
Any ideas on how to tackle this issue? Thanks a bunch!
Was the machine only running that far? If it was, try moving it closer to clean out and give it another go. There seems to be too much slack and not enough downward force to get the drain around the corner.
Is there a plug on the end of the cable?
Try taking the head off and using the cable only. Remove the cable lead. Bring the auger closer to the hole. Feed the line in until the cable bows a little, then push it in using open palms
Moving back and forth a lot can help to get past a lip or tight turn
Running in reverse can help to get around tough spots in the 90s. I do it all the time
When you’re trying to get it to advance, are you running it in forward?
You should rent a camera