Plumber snake

Types of plumber snakes

A plumber snake, also known as a drain snake or plumbing auger, is a tool used to clear clogs in plumbing pipes. There are different types of plumber snakes designed for various drain cleaning applications.

• Toilet Auger

  A toilet auger, also known as a closet auger, is a plumbing tool designed specifically to unclog toilets. Its long, metal shaft can bend around the curves of toilet plumbing. The auger's head breaks up clogs or pushes them further down the pipes. The handle lets users twist it to latch onto the blockage and pull it up. Toilet augers are essential for removing stubborn toilet clogs that plungers can't budge.

• Drain Snake

  When a drain in the house starts to smell bad or is slow to drain, it might be blocked by things like hair, soap, coffee grounds, tree roots, or grease. For small clogs in sinks, showers, and tubs, a drain snake can help. There are many types of drain snakes for home plumbing. They all work to remove gunk from pipes so water can flow freely again. The size and type of clog determine which tool will work best. Regular use of some tools can prevent future plumbing problems.

• Auger

  Hand-cranked or powered models are available for larger clogs. The flexible metal cable spins to break up or snag the blockage. The plumber then winds it in or out. The rotating motion of an auger through pipes clears tough clogs made from thick build-up. It can navigate bends and branches in plumbing systems to free drains. It works on sinks, toilets, and floor drains. It is also called a drain auger or power auger.

• Flexi Snake

  This snake is suitable for small pipes and bends. It consists of flexible plastic with a series of ridges that can capture and remove debris from within pipes. It is reusable and ideal for fragile pipes because it will not damage them. Their adaptability allows them to fit into small spaces, making them perfect for use in tight spots.

• Electric Snake

  An electric plumbing snake is a mechanized version of the traditional auger designed for larger or tougher clogs. This tool features a powerful motor that rotates the metal cable or coil head of the snake. It eliminates the need for manual cranking. Electric snakes can be used for drains. They are efficient and save time and labor compared to manual snakes. Electric snakes are suitable for large clogs.

Design of plumber snakes

• Toilet Auger

  This design usually has a curved end that can fit through the toilet's bowl and reach the drain. The handle is usually big to give a good grip when unclogging.

• Hand-crank Auger

  The snake's coiled wire is fixed to a rotating handle. This design has a container to keep the snake clean and safe. The container can also serve as a support when using the snake.

• Power Auger

  Power plumber snakes have a motorized mechanism to rotate the snake. The motor may be battery-powered, electric, or gas-powered. These designs have different sizes of augers, from small to large. The design that suits the application may have different features and structures. Some designs have flexible augers that can navigate bends in pipes. Others have rigid augers that are suitable for straight pipes.

• Drain Snake

  This is a simple, compact design that is easy to store. The snake consists of a long flexible coil and a handle. The coil is either a continuous spiral or a segmented chain. The segmented chain design allows for flexibility in tight bends.

• Sink Auger

  This design has a larger diameter and is shorter than the toilet auger. The coiled blade can fit into the sink's drain. It usually has a hand crank for easy control of the blade's movement.

• Electric Drain Auger

  This design has a motorized mechanism to rotate the snake. It has a powered auger, a control switch, and a durable casing to protect the internal parts.

• Flexi Snake

  The plumber snake consists of a long, flexible cable and a handle. The flexible design can work in various plumbing settings. It can be used on sinks, toilets, and shower drains. The handle usually has a crank or a battery-operated mechanism to rotate the cable.

• Drain Auger

  These are compact, portable designs. It has a coiled wire, a handle, and a casing. The casing protects the coiled wire and keeps it clean.

• Pipe Snake

  This design has a long, flexible coil that can navigate through pipes. It has a segmented coil that can expand to fit pipes of different sizes. The handle is usually large to give a good grip when using the snake.

Scenarios of plumber snakes

Plumber snakes are helpful tools in many industries outside plumbing. They are used to keep drainage systems working well. Here are some other scenarios where plumber snakes are valuable:

• Industrial applications

  Factories and industrial plants make a lot of waste. They need plumber snakes to clear big pipes blocked by solid materials or chemicals.

• Municipal maintenance

  The plumber snake helps municipal workers maintain the sewage system. It can clear clogs in large pipes and keep the community's drainage system flowing.

• Commercial kitchens

  Since restaurants deal with food waste, their kitchen drains often clog. Plumber snakes remove grease buildup in the pipes of commercial kitchens. Thus, they ensure the drainage system works well.

• Mining operations

  In mining, plumber snakes are useful for clearing water lines or drainage systems that may become blocked due to sediment or debris.

• Agricultural drainage

  Farmers use plumber snakes to unblock field drainage tiles or irrigation pipe systems clogged by soil or plant roots.

• HVAC systems

  In heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, condensate drain lines may clog with algae growth. A plumber snake can help get rid of this clogging, thus ensuring proper drainage and preventing water damage from system shutdowns.

• Construction sites

  On construction sites, a plumber snake can clear drains and ensure water flows properly. This prevents flooding and keeps the site safe.

• Event sanitation

  At large events like concerts or festivals, portable toilet drains may clog. Sanitation workers use plumber snakes to clear them, thus keeping the toilets flowing and comfortable for users.

How to choose a plumber snake

• Types of clogs

  Choosing the right plumbing snake depends on the types of clogs and the plumbing system it will be used on. If the clogs are caused by kitchen grease, bathroom hair, or flushable wipes, a plumber snake will be needed to clear the drain. The size of the pipe also determines the kind of plumber snake to use. Larger pipes require more robust snakes.

• Pipe size and location

  Considering the size and location of the pipes is also an important factor in choosing a plumbing snake. Smaller pipes can be cleared using hand-cranked or electric drain augers. The plumbing snake's storage is another thing to consider. Some plumbing snakes come in a compact carry case, while others have a cart.

• Ease of use

  The features and ease of use of the plumbing snake should also be considered. Battery-powered or electric plumbing snakes are easier to use than the manual ones. The cable's toughness and the material used in making the plumbing snake also have to be considered. Plumbing snakes with stainless steel cables are more durable than those with galvanised cables.

• Cost

  Considering the cost of the plumbing snake is also important. Manual plumbing snakes are more affordable than the electric ones. However, the electric snakes save time and effort, making them cost-effective in the long run. The cost of the plumbing snake also includes the cost of maintenance.

• Durability

  The durability of the plumbing snake should be considered. The materials used in making the plumbing snake determine its durability. Plumbing snakes made with metal are more durable than the ones made with plastic. Using a durable plumbing snake reduces the need for frequent replacements, saving costs in the long run.

• Brand reputation

  Another important factor to consider when choosing a plumbing snake is the brand and warranty. Well-known brands offer quality products and good customer service. Choosing a plumbing snake with a warranty gives the user confidence in the product's quality and performance.

Q&A

Q1. How to use a plumber snake?

A1. To use a plumber snake, insert its end into the drain, turn the handle clockwise to engage the clog, then rotate or push the snake to clear the blockage before retracting it.

Q2. What is the difference between a plumber's snake and a drain auger?

A2. While both tools clear clogs, the plumber's snake is for small pipes, and the drain auger is for larger ones.

Q3. How can one unclog a toilet with a plumber's snake?

A3. To unclog a toilet with a plumber's snake, insert the snake into the bowl, twist to break the clog, and then pull the snake out.

Q4. Can a plumber's snake damage pipes?

A4. A plumber's snake can harm pipes if misused, especially fragile ones, by applying too much force or using it incorrectly.

Q5. What is the proper way to clean a plumber's snake after usage?

A5. To clean a plumber's snake, flush it with water, then sanitize it using a mixture of vinegar and baking soda before rinsing and drying it thoroughly.