Got a slow-draining sink or a stubborn clog that won’t budge? You’re not alone—over 240,000 U.S. households search for “how much is a plumbing snake at Walmart” every year, hoping for a quick, affordable fix. The good news? Walmart carries a range of plumbing snakes (also called drain augers) at budget-friendly prices, often under $20. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how much a plumbing snake costs at Walmart, which models work best, and how to use one like a pro—so you can tackle clogs without calling a plumber.
What Is a Plumbing Snake—and Do You Really Need One?
A plumbing snake is a flexible, coiled metal tool designed to break up or retrieve clogs deep in your pipes. Unlike chemical drain cleaners—which can damage pipes and harm the environment—a manual snake is safe, reusable, and effective for most household blockages.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), overuse of chemical cleaners contributes to pipe corrosion and water contamination. That’s why plumbers like Mike Diamond Services recommend mechanical tools like drain snakes as a first-line defense.
💡 Pro Tip: If your sink backs up repeatedly or water won’t drain at all, a plumbing snake is likely your best DIY solution—especially if you’re on a tight budget.
How Much Is a Plumbing Snake at Walmart? (2024 Pricing)
Walmart offers several types of plumbing snakes, from basic hand-crank models to motorized versions. Here’s a breakdown of current prices (as of mid-2024):
| Hand-Crank Drain Snake | Plumb Works, Husky | $8 – $18 | Sinks, bathtubs, minor clogs |
| Toilet Auger (Closet Auger) | RIDGID, Danco | $15 – $25 | Toilet clogs only |
| Electric Drain Cleaner | General Pump, Ryobi* | $40 – $90 | Main line or deep clogs |
* Note: Walmart occasionally carries Ryobi or similar brands in-store or via third-party sellers on Walmart.com.
Most shoppers find that a basic 25-foot hand snake (like the Plumb Works 25-ft Drain Auger) costs around $12.97 online and in-store—making it one of the most affordable plumbing tools you can own.
For reference, professional plumbers charge $150–$300 for a simple drain clearing service (HomeAdvisor, 2023). A $13 snake could save you hundreds.
Top 3 Plumbing Snakes at Walmart (Reviewed)
1. Plumb Works 25-Foot Drain Auger
- Price: $12.97
- Pros: Durable steel cable, ergonomic handle, fits standard sink drains
- Cons: Not ideal for toilets (use a closet auger instead)
- Best for: Kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, tubs
2. Danco 40240 Toilet Auger
- Price: $19.88
- Pros: Protective sleeve prevents porcelain scratches, 3-foot reach
- Cons: Only for toilets—won’t work on other drains
- Expert Insight: “Toilet clogs need a specialized auger with a curved tip—never force a regular snake into a toilet,” says Master Plumber James McAllister (licensed in Texas).
3. General Pump 1/4 HP Electric Drain Cleaner
- Price: $79.00 (online only)
- Pros: Motorized feed, 25-foot cable, handles tree roots in main lines
- Cons: Overkill for minor clogs; requires outlet access
- Ideal for: Homeowners with recurring sewer line issues
🔗 Learn more about drain cleaning tools: Drain cleaner – Wikipedia
How to Use a Plumbing Snake: Step-by-Step Guide
Don’t worry—you don’t need plumbing experience. Follow these steps to clear a clog safely and effectively:
- Prepare the area: Place towels under the sink to catch drips. Remove the drain cover if possible.
- Insert the snake: Feed the cable tip into the drain opening slowly.
- Crank the handle: Rotate clockwise while gently pushing the cable deeper. You’ll feel resistance when you hit the clog.
- Break or hook the clog: Keep cranking for 10–15 seconds to break it up, or hook it to pull it out.
- Flush with hot water: Run 2 liters of hot (not boiling) water at 22–28°C (72–82°F) for 30 seconds to clear debris.
- Clean the snake: Wipe the cable with a disinfectant cloth before storing.
⚠️ Warning: Never use a standard drain snake in a toilet—it can crack the porcelain. Always use a toilet auger with a protective sleeve.
Plumbing Snake vs. Chemical Cleaner: Which Is Better?
| Cost | $8–$20 (one-time) | $5–$10 per use |
| Pipe Safety | ✅ Safe for all pipes | ❌ Can corrode PVC/metal |
| Environmental Impact | ✅ Zero chemicals | ❌ Toxic fumes & water pollution |
| Effectiveness | ✅ Removes hair, grease, debris | ❌ Often fails on solid clogs |
| Reusability | ✅ Hundreds of uses | ❌ Single-use |
The verdict? A plumbing snake wins every time for safety, cost, and reliability.
FAQ Section
Q: Does Walmart sell plumbing snakes in-store?
A: Yes! Most Walmart Supercenters carry basic hand snakes and toilet augers in the plumbing aisle (near pipes and faucets). Availability varies by location—use the Walmart app to check stock before you go.
Q: How long is a typical Walmart plumbing snake?
A: Most hand-crank models are 15 to 25 feet long—enough to reach clogs in sinks, tubs, and showers. Toilet augers are shorter (3–6 feet) due to toilet design.
Q: Can I use a plumbing snake on a garbage disposal?
A: No. Never insert a snake into a garbage disposal—it can damage blades or cause electrical hazards. Instead, use tongs or a disposal wrench.
Q: What if the snake doesn’t work?
A: If the clog persists after 2–3 attempts, the blockage may be in the main sewer line. In that case, consider renting a longer electric auger or calling a licensed plumber.
Q: Are Walmart plumbing snakes durable?
A: Basic models last 1–3 years with occasional use. For frequent use, invest in a stainless steel cable (like RIDGID or General brands) for longer life.
Q: Is a plumbing snake the same as a drain auger?
A: Yes! The terms are used interchangeably. “Auger” is the technical name; “snake” is the common term.
Conclusion
So, how much is a plumbing snake at Walmart? Typically between $8 and $25—a small price to pay for avoiding a $200 plumbing bill. Whether you’re battling a hair-clogged shower or a backed-up toilet, Walmart’s selection offers reliable, affordable tools that work.
Don’t wait for a minor drip to become a major disaster. Grab a snake, follow our guide, and take control of your home’s plumbing—safely and affordably.
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