Plumbing Snakes and Augers: The Ultimate Guide to Clearing Clogs

Plumbing snakes and augers are essential tools for every homeowner or professional plumber. They are designed to clear clogs in drains, pipes, and toilets efficiently and effectively. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different types of plumbing snakes and augers, the features to consider when buying one, how to use them properly, the benefits of using them, and tips for choosing the right tool for your needs.

When it comes to clearing tough clogs, a plunger might not always do the trick. That's where plumbing snakes and augers come in handy. These tools are designed to reach deep into the pipes and break up or remove clogs that are causing blockages. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn kitchen sink clog or a backed-up toilet, a plumbing snake or auger can be a game-changer.

There are several types of plumbing snakes and augers available, each designed for specific purposes. The most common types include handheld plumbing snakes, cable augers, drain augers, toilet augers, and power drain cleaners. Let's take a closer look at each type and their features.

Handheld plumbing snakes are a basic and versatile tool that every homeowner should have. They consist of a coiled metal cable with a handle on one end and a crank on the other. The user manually feeds the cable into the drain while turning the crank to break up the clog. Handheld plumbing snakes are ideal for small to medium-sized clogs in sinks, tubs, and showers.

Cable augers, also known as drum augers, are more heavy-duty than handheld snakes. They feature a drum or container where the cable is housed. The user rotates the drum to feed the cable into the drain and break up the clog. Cable augers are suitable for larger clogs in drains and pipes.

When tackling stubborn blockages at home, nothing beats the efficiency of the best plumbing snakes & augers for the job.

Types of Plumbing Snakes and Augers

Drain augers, also called plumber's snakes, are designed specifically for clearing clogs in drains. They have a long, flexible cable that can reach deep into the pipes. At the end of the cable, there is a hook or blade used to grab or break up the clog. Drain augers are highly effective in removing hair, grease, and other debris that accumulate in the drains.

Toilet augers, as the name suggests, are designed for unclogging toilets. They have a long, rigid cable that can easily maneuver through the curved trap of the toilet. The end of the cable features a narrow, corkscrew-like tip for breaking up and removing the clog. Toilet augers are specially designed to prevent damage to the porcelain bowl while effectively clearing the blockage.

Power drain cleaners, also known as electric drain snakes, are heavy-duty tools usually employed by professional plumbers. They feature a motor-powered cable that can quickly and efficiently clear even the toughest clogs. Power drain cleaners are typically used for commercial or industrial applications where a high level of power is required.

Now that we've covered the types of plumbing snakes and augers, let's discuss the important features to consider when choosing the right tool for your needs.

Features to Consider

The length and diameter of the cable are crucial factors to consider when choosing a plumbing snake or auger. The length should be long enough to reach the clog, considering the distance from the drain opening to the blockage. The diameter should be appropriate for the size of the pipes you'll be working on. It's important to note that larger clogs may require a larger diameter cable.

The cable material is another important consideration. Stainless steel cables are the most durable and resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for heavy-duty use. However, they can be more expensive. For occasional home use, a galvanized or vinyl-coated cable may be sufficient.

A comfortable grip handle is crucial for ease of use and control when operating a plumbing snake or auger. Look for handles with ergonomic designs and non-slip materials for a secure grip, especially when dealing with stubborn clogs that require some force to clear.

Some plumbing snakes and augers come with interchangeable cutter heads. These heads can have different shapes and sizes, allowing you to tackle various types of clogs. Consider the types of clogs you frequently encounter when choosing a tool with interchangeable cutter heads.

How to Use a Plumbing Snake or Auger

Using a plumbing snake or auger requires some basic steps to ensure success. Firstly, put on protective gloves and eyewear to protect yourself from any splashes or debris during the process. Insert the cable into the drain, feeding it slowly and steadily. Rotate the crank or drum to maneuver the cable further into the pipe. When you encounter resistance, continue rotating and pushing to break up or grab the clog. Once the clog is cleared, slowly retract the cable, taking care not to damage the pipes.

When using a plumbing snake or auger, it's essential to take certain precautions. Avoid exerting excessive force when encountering resistance, as this can cause damage to the pipes. Never use a plumbing snake or auger if you have poured chemical drain cleaners down the drain, as the pressure created can lead to harmful splashes. Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use and safety precautions.

Here are some useful tips and tricks to make the most out of your plumbing snake or auger:

Benefits of Using Plumbing Snakes and Augers

One of the significant benefits of using plumbing snakes and augers is that they offer an eco-friendly unclogging solution. Unlike chemical drain cleaners that can be harmful to the environment, plumbing snakes and augers rely on mechanical force to clear the clogs. They don't introduce any harmful chemicals into the drains or water systems.

In addition to being eco-friendly, plumbing snakes and augers are also a cost-effective alternative to calling a plumber. With the right tool, you can save money by clearing clogs yourself instead of hiring a professional. Investing in a good quality plumbing snake or auger can pay off in the long run.

Perhaps the most important benefit of using plumbing snakes and augers is their efficiency and quick results. These tools can effectively break up and remove clogs, restoring the normal flow of water in no time. With a plumbing snake or auger, you can avoid the frustration and inconvenience of dealing with clogged drains or toilets for prolonged periods.

Choosing the Right Plumbing Snake or Auger

When choosing a plumbing snake or auger, it's important to assess the nature of the plumbing issue you frequently encounter. If you often deal with small clogs in sinks or showers, a handheld plumbing snake may suffice. However, for more severe or frequent clogs in drains or pipes, a cable auger or power drain cleaner may be necessary.

Compatibility with pipe material is another important consideration. Some plumbing snakes and augers may not be suitable for certain types of pipes, such as PVC or fragile older pipes. Make sure to choose a tool that is compatible with the pipe material in your home to avoid any damage or leaks.

Budget considerations play a role in choosing the right tool. Determine your budget and look for options within that range. While it's important to invest in a good quality tool, there are options available at different price points to suit various budgets.

A user-friendly design is essential, especially for homeowners who are not experienced plumbers. Look for tools that are easy to operate and maneuver. Features like a retractable cable and a storage compartment for accessories can also make the tool more convenient to use and store.

Safety features should not be overlooked. Some plumbing snakes and augers come with built-in safety mechanisms to prevent cable backlash or protect against accidental activation. Ensure that the tool you choose has the necessary safety features to minimize the risk of injury.

Maintenance and Care

To maintain the performance and longevity of your plumbing snake or auger, regular cleaning and proper storage are essential. After each use, clean off any debris or residue from the cable and handle. Ensure that the cable is fully retracted into the tool and store it in a dry and secure location.

Over time, the cable or cutter heads of a plumbing snake or auger may wear out and need replacement. It's important to monitor the condition of these parts and replace them if necessary. Using a worn-out cable can reduce the effectiveness of the tool and potentially damage the pipes.

Perform regular inspections of your plumbing snake or auger to check for any signs of damage or wear. Look for any bends, kinks, or fraying in the cable, as well as any damage to the handle or other components. If you notice any issues, take the necessary steps to repair or replace the tool.