How to Snake a 90-Degree Drain: Can a Drain Snake Turn a 90-Degree Bend? Expert Tips for Clearing Drains with 90-Degree Angles

Snaking a drain with a 90-degree bend can be tricky, but it’s a common problem that many homeowners face. How to snake a 90-degree drain successfully is essential for resolving clogs that occur in tricky spots like elbows in the plumbing system. The good news is that, yes, a drain snake can turn 90 degrees, but it requires the right tools, techniques, and patience to do so effectively. By understanding how a drain snake works, how to approach bends in your plumbing, and the specific challenges that come with 90-degree angles, you can tackle even the most stubborn clogs in your home’s plumbing.

In this article, we’ll cover the best practices for using a drain snake on a pipe with a 90-degree angle, common issues you might encounter, and how to overcome them. Whether you’re dealing with a minor clog or a more severe blockage, these tips will help you clear your drains efficiently.

What Is a Drain Snake and How Does It Work?

A drain snake, also known as a plumbing auger, is a flexible, coiled wire designed to navigate through pipes and remove blockages. The snake is fed into the drain and manually or automatically pushed through the pipe, where it catches or breaks up the clog.

There are two main types of drain snakes:

• Manual Drain Snakes: These are hand-cranked devices that rely on the user’s physical effort to push the snake through the pipe.
• Motorized Drain Snakes: Powered by an electric motor, these snakes provide more power and are ideal for larger blockages or longer plumbing systems.

For snaking a 90-degree drain, a manual snake can work in many cases, but a motorized one might be necessary for particularly difficult blockages or older plumbing systems.

Can a Drain Snake Turn a 90-Degree Bend?

Yes, a drain snake can turn 90 degrees, but it requires specific techniques and, sometimes, particular tools to achieve this without damaging your plumbing. Most drain snakes are designed to be flexible enough to maneuver through bends, but the process is not always straightforward. You’ll often face more resistance at the bend, which can make it challenging to push the snake through.

The key to success is understanding how to handle the bend without applying excessive force, which could damage your plumbing or cause the snake to get stuck.

How to Snake a Drain with a 90-Degree Angle: Step-by-Step Guide

To successfully navigate a drain with a 90-degree bend, follow these steps:

Step 1: Gather the Right Tools

Before you begin, make sure you have the proper tools for the job. For a 90-degree bend, a flexible drain snake is essential. You may also need a drain auger with an angled tip specifically designed to navigate tight bends.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• A manual or motorized drain snake
• Gloves for protection
• Drain cleaner (optional, but useful if you want to soften the blockage)
• A flashlight to inspect the drain

Step 2: Prepare the Work Area

Clear the area around the drain and lay down some towels or plastic sheets to catch any mess. Drains can be dirty, and it’s common for water or debris to spill out during the process.

Step 3: Insert the Drain Snake

Slowly feed the snake into the drain. Keep the snake as straight as possible as it enters the pipe to avoid kinks. For manual drain snakes, turn the handle to advance the snake down the drain. If using a motorized snake, set it to a low speed to avoid excessive force.

Step 4: Navigating the 90-Degree Bend

When the snake reaches the 90-degree angle, you’ll feel resistance. Here are some tips to help the snake turn the corner:

• Rotate the Snake: Turn the handle (or motor) slowly while applying slight pressure. This rotation can help guide the tip around the bend.
• Push Gently: Apply steady, gentle pressure. Too much force can cause the snake to buckle or damage the pipe.
• Pull Back Slightly: If the snake won’t advance, pull it back a few inches, then try again. Sometimes resetting the snake’s position can make it easier to turn the bend.
• Use a Flexible Tip: Some snakes come with tips specifically designed to navigate sharp turns. If you’re using a standard snake, consider upgrading to one with a bend-friendly auger tip.

Step 5: Break Up the Clog

Once you’ve successfully navigated the bend, you should feel the snake reach the blockage. Continue rotating the snake while pushing it forward to either break up the clog or hook it for removal.

If you’re using a manual snake, crank the handle to apply pressure, but don’t force it. A motorized snake will provide the necessary power automatically.

Step 6: Remove the Snake and Test the Drain

After you’ve cleared the blockage, slowly pull the snake out of the drain. Be prepared for some debris or water to come out with it. Once the snake is out, test the drain by running hot water for a few minutes to ensure the clog is fully cleared.

Why Do 90-Degree Bends Make Snaking More Difficult?

90-degree bends in plumbing create a natural obstacle for any tool attempting to navigate through the system. The main issue is that the drain snake must change direction sharply, which can cause it to get stuck or buckle. Additionally, debris often accumulates at these bends, making blockages more likely.

Here are some reasons why 90-degree bends are particularly challenging:

• Increased Resistance: As the snake pushes against the bend, it meets resistance, making it harder to advance.
• Pipe Damage Risk: Applying too much pressure can damage the pipe or cause the snake to kink, potentially leading to further plumbing issues.
• Tight Space: The tighter the bend, the harder it is for the snake to maintain its flexibility and navigate the curve smoothly.

How Much Does It Cost to Snake a Drain with a 90-Degree Bend?

The cost of snaking a drain depends on whether you plan to do it yourself or hire a professional plumber. Here’s a breakdown:

• DIY Approach: Renting a motorized drain snake can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 per day. A manual drain snake can be purchased for around $20 to $50, making it a more cost-effective option for minor clogs.
• Professional Service: Hiring a plumber to snake a drain typically costs between $150 and $300, depending on the severity of the clog, the length of the plumbing system, and the complexity of the bends. For drains with multiple 90-degree bends, the cost might be on the higher end of this range.

Where Are 90-Degree Bends Commonly Found in Plumbing Systems?

Understanding where 90-degree bends are located in your home’s plumbing system can help you approach snaking with a better strategy. These bends are common in the following areas:

• Underneath sinks: The plumbing beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks often has tight bends to fit in small spaces.
• In bathroom fixtures: Shower drains and toilets often feature 90-degree bends within a few feet of the drain opening.
• Horizontal to vertical transitions: When a drainpipe moves from horizontal to vertical, a 90-degree elbow is often used to make the transition.

Knowing the location of these bends can help you anticipate challenges and use the right tools.

What Are the Best Drain Snakes for Navigating 90-Degree Bends?

Not all drain snakes are created equal, especially when dealing with sharp bends. Here are a few of the best options:

• Cobra Products 50-Foot Power Drain Auger: This motorized drain snake is great for tackling tough clogs, especially in plumbing systems with multiple bends.
• RIDGID Kwik-Spin: A manual option with a handle that makes it easier to rotate and navigate tight turns.
• DrainX Pro Steel Drum Auger: Another great manual snake, ideal for smaller clogs in sinks and tubs.

Preventing Future Clogs at 90-Degree Bends: What Can You Do?

Once you’ve cleared a clogged 90-degree drain, it’s essential to take steps to prevent future blockages. Here’s how:

• Avoid flushing inappropriate items: Things like grease, food scraps, and hair are the primary causes of clogs, especially at bends in the pipes. Dispose of these materials properly.
• Install drain strainers: Strainers catch debris before it can enter your plumbing system, reducing the risk of future clogs.
• Regular maintenance: Use a drain cleaner once a month to break down any small blockages that could lead to bigger problems.