Got a stubborn clog that wonโt budge with a plunger? Youโre not alone. Many homeowners turn to a plumbing snakeโalso called a drain augerโas their next line of defense. But before you buy or rent one, youโre probably asking: โHow much does a snake cost for plumbing?โ Whether youโre tackling a minor kitchen sink backup or a serious mainline blockage, understanding the true costโand valueโof a plumbing snake can save you time, money, and frustration.
What Is a Plumbing Snake?
A plumbing snake is a flexible, coiled metal cable designed to break up or retrieve clogs deep inside pipes. Itโs inserted into drains and manually or mechanically rotated to clear obstructions like hair, grease, or tree roots. While often called a โsnake,โ itโs technically a drain augerโa term youโll see used interchangeably by plumbers and hardware stores.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency , clogged drains are among the top three household plumbing issues reported annually. A snake is often the most effective non-chemical solution.
How Much Does a Snake Cost for Plumbing? (Price Breakdown)
The cost of a plumbing snake varies widely based on type, length, and whether you buy, rent, or hire a pro. Hereโs a detailed breakdown:
1. Manual Drain Snakes (Hand-Cranked)
Price Range: $15 โ $50
Best For: Sink, shower, or bathtub clogs (up to 25 feet deep)
Examples:
Basic 15-ft auger: $15โ$25
Heavy-duty 25-ft model: $30โ$50
These are ideal for DIYers. Brands like Ridgid, Husky, and General Pipe Cleaners dominate this category.
2. Electric Drain Snakes (Motorized Augers)
Price Range: $80 โ $300+
Best For: Main sewer lines, floor drains, or recurring clogs
Features: Auto-feed, variable speed, 25โ100 ft cables
A mid-range electric snake (e.g., 50-ft cable) costs around $150โ$200. While pricier, itโs a smart investment if you own an older home with frequent blockages.
3. Renting a Snake
Cost: $20 โ $50 per day
Where: Home Depot, Loweโs, local tool rental shops
Note: Deposit often required ($50โ$100 refundable)
Renting makes sense if you only need it once. But factor in time and potential damageโimproper use can scratch pipes.
4. Hiring a Professional Plumber
Average Cost: $150 โ $350 per visit
Includes: Diagnosis, snaking, and minor cleanup
Complex Jobs (e.g., main sewer line): $300 โ $600+
๐ก Pro Tip: If youโve tried a plunger and boiling water with no luck, a $25 manual snake is your next best stepโbefore calling a pro.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Which Saves More?
Upfront Cost
$15โ$300
$150โ$600+
Time Required
30โ60 mins
15โ45 mins
Skill Level
Beginner-friendly (for sinks)
Expert handling
Risk of Damage
Moderate (if misused)
Very low
Long-Term Value
Reusable tool
One-time fix
When to DIY:
Clog is in a sink, tub, or shower
Youโre comfortable with basic tools
Budget is tight
When to Call a Pro:
Multiple drains are backing up (sign of mainline clog)
You smell sewage or see water pooling
Previous DIY attempts failed
โ ๏ธ Warning: Never use a snake on a toilet unless itโs a toilet-specific auger (with a protective sleeve). Standard snakes can crack porcelain.
How to Use a Plumbing Snake (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to safely and effectively clear a clog:
Put on gloves and eye protection.
Remove the drain cover (if applicable).
Insert the snake cable into the drain opening.
Slowly crank the handle while feeding the cable deeper.
Feel for resistanceโthis is likely the clog.
Rotate and push gently to break it up or hook it.
Retract the cable, cleaning off debris as you go.
Flush with hot water (2โ3 gallons at 120ยฐF) to clear residue.
For electric models, follow the manufacturerโs instructionsโmost have auto-feed controls to prevent over-insertion.
Pros and Cons of Using a Plumbing Snake
Advantages:
โ Chemical-free solution (eco-friendly)
โ Immediate results for most clogs
โ Reusable and cost-effective long-term
โ Prevents minor issues from becoming emergencies
Disadvantages:
โ Can scratch pipes if used aggressively
โ Ineffective on grease or mineral buildup (needs enzyme cleaner)
โ Not suitable for all pipe types (e.g., old cast iron)
๐ Expert Insight: โA plumbing snake is the gold standard for mechanical drain cleaning,โ says Maria Lopez, licensed master plumber with 18 years of experience in Chicago. โBut itโs a toolโnot a cure-all. If youโre snaking monthly, you likely have a deeper issue like pipe corrosion or root intrusion.โ
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using the wrong type: A sink snake wonโt reach a main sewer line.
Forcing the cable: This can kink the snake or damage pipes.
Skipping safety gear: Raw sewage exposure is a real health risk.
Ignoring recurring clogs: This may signal a venting or slope issue in your drainage system.
A: Only if itโs a toilet auger (also called a closet auger). These have a curved end and protective rubber sleeve to avoid cracking porcelain. Standard drain snakes can damage toilets.
Q2: How long does a plumbing snake last?
A: A quality manual snake lasts 5โ10 years with proper care. Rinse and dry the cable after each use to prevent rust. Electric models may need motor or cable replacement after heavy use.
Q3: Is a plumbing snake better than chemical drain cleaners?
A: Yes, in most cases. Chemicals can corrode pipes over time and are ineffective on solid clogs (like toys or hair wads). Snakes are mechanical, immediate, and safer for your plumbing.
Q4: Whatโs the difference between a drain snake and a drain auger?
A: Noneโtheyโre the same tool. โSnakeโ is the common term; โaugerโ is the technical one. Both refer to a coiled cable used to clear blockages.
Q5: Can I rent a snake instead of buying one?
A: Absolutely. Most hardware stores rent manual and electric snakes by the day. Just bring ID and a credit card for the deposit.
Q6: How do I know if I need a pro instead of a DIY snake?
A: Call a plumber if:
Water backs up in multiple drains
You hear gurgling sounds
The clog returns within days
You suspect tree roots or collapsed pipes
Conclusion
So, how much does a snake cost for plumbing? Depending on your needs, it can be as little as $15 for a basic hand auger or up to $300+ for a professional-grade electric model. For one-time issues, renting or hiring a pro might make sense. But for recurring clogs or proactive homeowners, owning a quality snake pays for itself fast.
Not only does it save money, but it also gives you control over minor plumbing emergenciesโwithout harsh chemicals or waiting for a service call.
๐ Found this guide helpful? Share it on Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter to help a friend avoid a plumbing disaster! And if youโve used a snake successfully (or learned the hard way!), drop a
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