What it means
A drain snake, or auger, feeds a coiled cable through a trap or cleanout to pierce or retrieve blockages. Hand snakes clear nearby fixture clogs; motorized drum machines reach further into branch lines and main drains.
Snaking clears an opening but may not remove grease buildup on pipe walls. Recurring clogs often mean a partial blockage, belly in the pipe, or root intrusion that needs video inspection.
Why it matters in Santa Cruz County
Older Santa Cruz homes with mature redwoods and oaks send roots into clay laterals in the San Lorenzo Valley. Kitchen clogs from grease are common in beach cottages with small diameter drains in Capitola Village.
Homeowner tip
Avoid chemical drain openers before snaking; they can harm pipes and make professional work less safe.
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Related glossary terms
Also explore the Septic Glossary or call 831.225.4344 with questions about your property.