Should I Push Drain Chains Through a Blockage or Go Past It and Pull Back?

When it comes to using a drain chain to clear a blockage, one question often comes up:
Is it better to push the chains directly into the obstruction, or pierce through the blockage first and then pull back?

While opinions may vary, here’s a practical method that we personally recommend—and it’s worked well in many tough situations.

The Preferred Method: Push in First, Then Pull

Start by taking your drain chain, wrapping it securely around the shaft, and locking it in place.
From there, push the shaft forward until you’ve completely passed through the blockage. Once you’re on the other side, pull the chain out, open it up, feed it back into the pipe through the pierced section, and then pull it back through the blockage.

Why pull instead of just pushing all the way? It comes down to one word: power.

Why Pulling Works Better Than Pushing

The force you can apply when pulling the shaft is significantly stronger than when pushing it.
When pulling backward through the obstruction, the drain chain can bite into the blockage more effectively, giving you a better chance of breaking it apart and clearing the pipe.

That said, drain chains are designed to work in both directions, so whether you push or pull, you’re using the tool correctly—it just depends on what works best in your situation.

Final Thoughts

Both techniques are valid, and the right approach might depend on the type of blockage you’re facing. But if you’re looking for the most efficient and powerful method, try penetrating past the blockage and pulling the drain chain back through.

We’ve made a video to go with this blog — check it out here.

Got a different technique that works for you? Feel free to share—every plumber has their own way, and we’d love to hear your preference.