Can you damage a drain with a snake?

• <div><p>In some cases, operating a snake can damage your drain and pipes. This depends on the overall condition of your pipes and how gently you operate the auger. For instance, older galvanized pipes covered in zinc are susceptible to scratches when using a drain snake. Additionally, it’s common for newbies to apply too much force when extending the snake, leading to scratches and related damage. You can also crack the porcelain with an electric auger if you’re snaking a toilet drain. If you’re using a manual snake or auger, the risk is minimal.</p></div>

Get matched with top drain cleaners in Alexander, AR

There are 4 highly-rated local drain cleaners.

TRUSTED BY ALEXANDER, AR HOMEOWNERS

4.7
Average homeowner rating
77
Verified drain cleaning services reviews

Verified Reviews for Drain Cleaning pros in Alexander, AR

*The Angi rating for Drain Cleaning companies in Alexander, AR is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Drain Cleaning needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Drain Cleaning companies in Alexander, AR is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Drain Cleaning needs.

Last update on October 04, 2025

Reviewed in January 2015
quick response, showed up on time and had the drain cleared within 10 minutes. they did leave the "debris" from the clog on the ground.
Anderson Plumbing Inc
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Reviewed in May 2015
There were some roots of the tree that were clogging the drain. I like them very much. They are very good. We use them all the time.
Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
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Reviewed in August 2014
The person came in and unplugged a clogged drain that was left over from a previous business owner. I know that he worked hard, cleaned up everything before he left and cost was right about the ball park of what i expected. The person who came in was very professional and good to work with.
Arrow Plumbing
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Reviewed in August 2023
Tech did not complete the job in fact told me I needed to hire a plumber to cut the 2" line & install a clean out & have someone repair the drywall that was needed to be cut out. I pointed out that the air return vent was there & No drywall cut was needed. I paid $350 for a service call that was...
Aqua Tech
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Reviewed in January 2011
This is a short story. Wade unclogged the kitchen drain in less time than it took me to clean out the cabinet to get to the pipes. Then he shut off the water and replaced the guts in a 30 year old Delta valve in the bath. I called after noon and they got to it the same day too. Excellent.
Precision Plumbing Inc
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Reviewed in September 2006
We had used Euells Plumbing Service many times in the past for our plumbing needs, so when our dishwasher stopped draining and was clogged up, we called them to come out and fix the problem. The gentleman was able to come out the very next day after I called, and he said that he would be there...
EUELLS PLUMBING COMPANY INC
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Reviewed in September 2006
I had used Ken Bells Plumbing Company in the past. I always ask for his one son to come out to do the work. This guy is very well trained when it comes to plumbing repair. He is very courteous and he just seems to have a kind nature about him. He used something that was able to allow him to look...
KEN BELL PLUMBING CO
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Reviewed in September 2006
The service was excellent and the gentleman was very professional. He was neat and quick. I thought the cost was excellent considering the job that he did. My drainage system is working wonderful now.
C & R Rooter Drain Cleaning, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2012
He examined the sink, disposal and drain. Determined he had to clean out the drain and replace the disposal unit. He did so quickly and efficiently. We asked him to check the faucets in the bath room, which he did, explaining that it was an old faucet which might need to be replaced if he ...
Neighborhood Plumbers
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Reviewed in November 2010
Sewer pipe cleared. Paid the quoted price. I rated the price as fair because I do not have any comparable.
ASSOCIATED PLUMBERS INC
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Find Drain cleaners in Alexander

Shaw Plumbing, LLC

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Shaw Plumbing, LLC

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

216 local quotes requested

At Shaw Plumbing, we have a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing top-notch plumbing services. Please call our office today to schedule your appointment at 501-253-3578. These services include commercial, residential repair, drain cleaning, water heater change out, water leaks, busted sewers and many more of you service needs. With 25+years of experience in the industry, we are committed to delivering exceptional results and ensuring customer satisfaction. Michael is our lead technician who oversees all plumbing projects. With his exceptional skills and attention to detail, he ensures that every job is completed to the highest standards. Our journeyman plumbers are dedicated to providing excellent service and take pride in their work. Their expertise in drain cleaning and repair is unmatched!

"Very quick response. Came out next day. Top tier work. I will likely call them directly for any future repairs I may need."

Joseph B on February 2025

"Very quick response. Came out next day. Top tier work. I will likely call them directly for any future repairs I may need."

Joseph B on February 2025

Josh Wilburn Plumbing, LLC

166 E Half Moon Court

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Josh Wilburn Plumbing, LLC

166 E Half Moon Court

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

5 years of experience

Josh Wilburn Plumbing LLC Here at company , we pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all of our projects no matter how big or small. We are experts in our trade and will always keep you educated on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"He is a very polite person, he is very fairly priced."

Jeremy Y on December 2021

"He is a very polite person, he is very fairly priced."

Jeremy Y on December 2021

Sanders Services Plumbing - Heat & Air

Sanders Services Plumbing - Heat & Air

Customers say: Quick response

16 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

Since 1932, Sanders has provided exceptional services to customers across Central Arkansas. Our company was founded on honesty, integrity, and quality workmanship, and we continue to uphold those values today. We understand that our customers expect the best, so we go above and beyond to deliver superior results. We offer various services, including HVAC repair and installation, plumbing solutions, water heater services, and much more. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to ensuring that every job is completed efficiently and effectively. We want you to be 100% satisfied!

"This is one of the worst hvac companies we dealt with. We paid them $384 to do an air balance test. It's been almost two weeks and we still don't have the results. I have called them more than five times and I still can't get the report or even just the numbers from our testing. And every time I've called I have to call back at least a couple of times because the receptionist hangs up on me every time she puts me on hold. With every phone call I make I'm assured that the VP of Operations, Brian, will call back. Yesterday afternoon Amber told me he would call back in 5 min as soon as he was off a phone call. He still hasn't called back. I understand these businesses don't care about customers and only about money, but when you pay them hundreds of dollars you would think they would at least get you the piece of paper you paid them for. Frustrating, especially since it's so hot out & we cannot get our hvac fixed until we have those numbers. You can find the rest of this review on Google"

Bev B on July 2025

"This is one of the worst hvac companies we dealt with. We paid them $384 to do an air balance test. It's been almost two weeks and we still don't have the results. I have called them more than five times and I still can't get the report or even just the numbers from our testing. And every time I've called I have to call back at least a couple of times because the receptionist hangs up on me every time she puts me on hold. With every phone call I make I'm assured that the VP of Operations, Brian, will call back. Yesterday afternoon Amber told me he would call back in 5 min as soon as he was off a phone call. He still hasn't called back. I understand these businesses don't care about customers and only about money, but when you pay them hundreds of dollars you would think they would at least get you the piece of paper you paid them for. Frustrating, especially since it's so hot out & we cannot get our hvac fixed until we have those numbers. You can find the rest of this review on Google"

Bev B on July 2025

Ray Lusk Plumbing Company

Ray Lusk Plumbing Company

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 92% of Angi customers

11 local quotes requested

Ray Lusk Plumbing is a family owned company and has been in business since 1980. We specialize in professional and friendly plumbing services for your beautiful home. No job is too big or too small. Call us today for a free estimate! We have serviced Arkansas for over 40 years providing 24/7 emergency plumbing services. We are experienced in a wide range of plumbing solutions including leak detection, water heater installation, rooter drain cleaning, commercial construction, bathroom remodel, sewer line replacement, lawn sprinkler repair and more.

"It was the best customer service I have found in yearsð ¤©"

Kathy K on August 2023

"It was the best customer service I have found in yearsð ¤©"

Kathy K on August 2023

Jet plumbing and drain

9317 Hwy 79

No reviews yet

Jet plumbing and drain

9317 Hwy 79

No reviews yet

2 years of experience

25 years experience I don't have all of the overhead like the larger companies so I am able to do the job cheaper

Sanfords Drain Cleaning LLC

No reviews yet

Sanfords Drain Cleaning LLC

No reviews yet

6 years of experience

Over 20 years plumbing experience. Specializing in drain and sewer cleaning, plumbing repairs, video inspections and bathroom remodeling. Quality work guaranteed along with reasonable pricing. Military and senior citizen discounts.

Dickerson Plumbing

9021 Josanne Ln

No reviews yet

Dickerson Plumbing

9021 Josanne Ln

No reviews yet

Free onsite estimate

At Dickerson Plumbing we are a family owned and operated company servicing the Central Arkansas area. We pride ourselves on providing the highest quality plumbing solutions at the most affordable rates, including same-day service and after-hours emergency assistance. With over 20 years of experience, we are highly skilled in all aspects of the plumbing industry and specialize in tankless water heater installation/repair and bath and kitchen remodels, alongside a wide range of all other plumbing services. Our rates are among the most competitive in the Central Arkansas area!

Bert Black - AC Heating Plumbing Electric

15924 Cantrell Rd

No reviews yet

Bert Black - AC Heating Plumbing Electric

15924 Cantrell Rd

No reviews yet

48 years of experience

Bert Black - AC Heating Plumbing Electric makes it easy to get all the repair services you need for your home or business. From HVAC and plumbing repairs to electrical work, you get outstanding services all under one company. See why we've been highly recommended by our customers for over 45 years, call us today for a free estimate! Our experienced technicians are certified, licensed, and undergo drug tests and complete background checks for your confidence and protection. We use the latest state-of-the-art equipment and follow all OSHA standards and best practices to ensure the best results. We have a Master Plumber License, a Master Electrician License, and a state license for HVAC service.

On The Spot Plumbing LLC

1665 Fairview Rd

No reviews yet

On The Spot Plumbing LLC

1665 Fairview Rd

No reviews yet

2 years of experience

On The Spot Plumbing is a family owned and operated company servicing the central Arkansas area with over 20 years experience. We provide full service installation and repair to all plumbing systems including faucets, drains, pipes, sewer lines, garbage disposals, water heaters and mor.

Corey Sommer LLC

No reviews yet

Corey Sommer LLC

No reviews yet

Corey Sommer LLC is happy to offer Darin cleaning and instillation services. We work hard to provide our customers with quality work in a timely manner.

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Showing 1-10 of 80

Drain Cleaning questions, answered by experts

In some cases, operating a snake can damage your drain and pipes. This depends on the overall condition of your pipes and how gently you operate the auger. For instance, older galvanized pipes covered in zinc are susceptible to scratches when using a drain snake. Additionally, it’s common for newbies to apply too much force when extending the snake, leading to scratches and related damage. You can also crack the porcelain with an electric auger if you’re snaking a toilet drain. If you’re using a manual snake or auger, the risk is minimal.

Flushing the toilet only to realize it’s clogged can cause anxiety. To avoid a clogged toilet, use less toilet paper. If you notice that the toilet is flushing and refilling slower than usual, you can use a plunger to clear clogs in the S-trap. If that doesn’t work, call a plumber to check your system and possibly clear the drain lines.

When you put baking soda and vinegar down the drain, they chemically react and help break down clogs. It’s not going to work for every type of clog, however. For example, it’s not the best way to get rid of grease buildup. For grease, you should try boiling water and white vinegar instead.

If your drain doesn’t have metal crosshairs or crossbars, you should use a tub drain extractor. These tools create a grip on the drain so you can turn it using a 1/2-inch ratchet drive, drain key, or wrench. Your drain may not have crosshairs if it's old and broken.

Septic tanks can clog if they aren’t pumped every few years since solid waste accumulates inside of them. Your tank might also clog if you have a habit of flushing anything other than human waste or toilet paper. Items like diapers, baby wipes, paper towels, cat litter, and personal hygiene products should never go down your pipes.

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The Alexander, AR homeowners’ guide to drain cleaning services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Candace Nelson
•
Mar 4, 2025Mar 4, 2025
How Much Will It Cost to Clean My Drain? [2025 Data]
When your shower or sink starts draining slowly or not at all, it’s time to act. Get tips for how to unclog a drain, and learn about drain cleaning service pricing.
Mariel Loveland
•
Mar 23, 2025Mar 23, 2025
How Do I Drain the Water Lines in My House? A Guide to Draining Your Plumbing System
How do I drain the water lines in my house? This guide will walk you through it in five simple steps, along with tips to prevent damage to your plumbing.
Angi
•
Jul 21, 2025Jul 21, 2025
How Much Does Roots in Pipes Removal Cost? [2025 Data]
Find out the average cost to remove roots from pipes, what impacts pricing, and expert budgeting tips for root removal, and protect your plumbing.
Mizuki Hisaka
•
Apr 4, 2025Apr 4, 2025
How to Unclog a Shower Drain With Standing Water
If you've been dealing with standing water in your shower, don't fret. Read this guide to find out how to unclog a shower drain with standing water.
Heather Ayer
•
Sep 18, 2024Sep 18, 2024
5 Easy Ways to Remove Hair From Your Drain
If you’ve got a slow-draining bathtub, it could be due to hair buildup. This complete guide will show you how to remove hair from the drain.
Heather Ayer
•
Mar 19, 2025Mar 19, 2025
How to Snake a Basement Floor Drain in 9 Steps
Knowing how to snake a basement floor drain is an important DIY skill for homeowners. Our guide gives a step-by-step process to clean your basement drain.