Dealing with a stubborn drain clog that refuses to budge can be one of the most frustrating experiences for any homeowner. You’ve tried the plunger, you’ve poured the enzymes, but the water still sits there, mocking your efforts. In these extreme cases, you might have heard rumors about advanced techniques, leading you to search for how to put 2 snakes back to back plumbing to tackle the blockage with double the force.
Before you rush to buy a second auger, it is crucial to understand that this technique is rarely about physically taping two tools together. Instead, it refers to a strategic method of using multiple tools or extended reach to break through deep, compacted obstructions. This guide will walk you through the safe, professional way to approach severe clogs, ensuring you don’t damage your pipes in the process.
What Does “Putting 2 Snakes Back to Back” Actually Mean?
The phrase “putting 2 snakes back to back” is often a misnomer in DIY plumbing circles. Physically connecting two manual drain snakes end-to-end is not recommended and can be dangerous. The coupling points create weak spots that can snap under torque, leaving metal fragments inside your pipes.
However, in professional contexts, this concept translates to sequential snaking or using a motorized auger with extended cable capacity. When a single 25-foot hand snake fails, plumbers don’t tape another one to it. They switch to a heavier-duty machine or use a longer cable drum that allows for continuous feeding without interruption.
Why Single Snakes Fail
- Length Limitations: Standard hand snakes only reach 15–25 feet. Main line clogs are often 50+ feet away.
- Lack of Torque: Hand-cranked snakes lack the rotational power to cut through tree roots or hardened grease.
- Cable Flexibility: Thin cables buckle when hitting sharp bends or dense material.
Expert Insight: According to industry standards, attempting to modify tools by joining them voids warranties and increases liability. Always use the right tool for the depth of the clog.
Step-by-Step: The Safe Alternative to Dual Snaking
If you are facing a clog that seems to require “two snakes,” follow this professional-grade protocol. This method achieves the goal of deeper penetration without the risks of makeshift tool modifications.
Step 1: Assess the Clog Location
Before inserting any tool, determine where the blockage is.
- Sink/Tub: Likely within 5–10 feet. A hand snake is sufficient.
- Main Line: If multiple fixtures are backing up, the clog is in the main sewer line, likely 20–50+ feet out.
Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace
- Wear heavy-duty rubber gloves and safety goggles.
- Place a bucket under the cleanout plug to catch residual water.
- Ensure the area is well-ventilated.
Step 3: Use a Motorized Auger (The Real “Double Power”)
Instead of two hand snakes, rent or buy a motorized drain auger with at least 50–75 feet of cable. These machines provide consistent torque that human arms cannot match.
- Insert the Cable: Feed the cable into the drain slowly until you feel resistance.
- Engage the Motor: Turn on the machine while gently pushing forward. Let the cutting head do the work.
- Break Through: Once you hit the clog, you will feel the motor slow down. Maintain pressure but do not force it.
- Retract and Clean: Pull the cable back slowly, wiping off debris with a rag. Repeat if necessary.
Step 4: The “Sequential” Method (If Using Manual Tools)
If you only have manual snakes, do not connect them. Instead:
- Use the first snake to break up the outer layer of the clog.
- Remove the snake and flush with hot water (not boiling, to avoid cracking PVC).
- Insert a different type of snake (e.g., a closet auger for toilets or a heavier gauge snake) to tackle the core of the blockage.
This sequential approach mimics the “back to back” intensity without the mechanical risk.
Risks of Physically Connecting Two Snakes
It is vital to understand why you should never literally tape or screw two standard drain snakes together.
| Risk Factor | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Structural Weakness | The joint becomes the weakest point. Under torque, it will snap. |
| Pipe Damage | A broken joint can scratch or puncture PVC and copper pipes. |
| Lost Tool | If the connection fails inside the pipe, you now have a metal fragment stuck in your drain, requiring expensive professional extraction. |
| Ineffective Rotation | The joint prevents smooth rotation, causing the cable to kink rather than cut. |
For more information on pipe materials and their durability, you can refer to this Wikipedia article on Piping.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While DIY methods are cost-effective, there are scenarios where “how to put 2 snakes back to back plumbing” is a sign that you’ve reached the limit of DIY. Call a pro if:
- Recurring Clogs: If the same drain clogs more than twice a month, you may have a collapsed pipe or severe root intrusion.
- Sewage Backup: If wastewater is coming up in other fixtures (e.g., toilet water in the shower), this is a main line emergency.
- Old Pipes: Homes built before 1980 may have cast iron or clay pipes that are fragile. Aggressive snaking can crack them.
- No Cleanout Access: If you cannot locate the main cleanout plug, do not attempt to snake through roof vents or small sink drains for main line issues.
Professional plumbers use hydro-jetting and camera inspections to solve problems that snakes cannot. Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to scour the pipe walls, removing grease and roots completely, whereas snaking only punches a hole through the center.
FAQ: Common Questions About Advanced Snaking
1. Can I use two different types of snakes for one clog?
Yes, this is the safest interpretation of “back to back.” For example, use a small hand snake to clear the trap under the sink, then switch to a longer drum auger to clear the branch line. This ensures each tool is used within its design limits.
2. What is the maximum length I can snake manually?
Most homeowners can effectively manage a manual snake up to 25 feet. Beyond that, the friction and weight of the cable make it difficult to rotate and push without a motorized unit.
3. Will snaking damage my old pipes?
If done correctly, no. However, using a large cutting head in small-diameter pipes or forcing a cable around tight bends can scratch or crack older cast iron or clay pipes. Always use the smallest cable diameter that fits the pipe.
4. How often should I snake my drains as prevention?
Snaking is a reactive measure, not preventive. For prevention, use enzymatic cleaners monthly and avoid pouring grease down the drain. Only snake when a clog occurs.
5. Is it better to snake or use chemical drain cleaners?
Snaking is significantly safer for your pipes. Chemical cleaners generate heat and can corrode pipes over time, especially older metal ones. They also pose health risks if they splash. Mechanical removal is always preferred.
6. What if the snake gets stuck?
Do not pull hard. Try rotating the handle in the opposite direction to unwind any hair or debris caught on the cutting head. If it remains stuck, you may need to call a professional to avoid breaking the cable inside the pipe.
Conclusion
Learning how to put 2 snakes back to back plumbing is less about physically joining tools and more about understanding when to escalate your approach. By switching from manual to motorized tools, or using a sequential strategy with different augers, you can tackle even the most stubborn clogs safely and effectively.
Remember, the goal is to clear the obstruction without compromising the integrity of your plumbing system. If you find yourself repeatedly battling the same clog, it may be time to invest in a professional camera inspection to identify underlying issues like root intrusion or pipe collapse.
Did this guide help you clear your drain? Share this article with your neighbors or on social media to help others avoid costly plumbing mistakes! Don’t forget to bookmark this page for your next DIY plumbing emergency.
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