In plumbing, both the drain snake and drain auger are essential tools, with the auger for kitchen sink clogs providing powerful solutions for effective drainage and maintenance of your plumbing system.
What Is A Sewer Snake?
Sewer snakes are a very practical plumbing instrument. Clogs can be removed by inserting a long, flexible metal cable (often 40–100 feet) into sewer pipes or drain lines. A corkscrew-like auger on the end of the sewer snake’s tip facilitates the free flow of water or sewer waste by dissolving obstructions. Drain snakes can be used at home by anyone who knows how to use them properly, but plumbers frequently use them.
Sewer snakes are useful tools in plumbing, used to remove clogs, clean sinks, bathtub drains, and clear sewer main line blockages. They require skill to operate but are more powerful than plungers, ensuring a clean and efficient plumbing system.
How Does A Drain Snake Work?
The flexible cable and auger tip of the drain snake help to dislodge obstructions. The sewer snake is twisted in a circular motion after being inserted into the drain line or sewer pipe. This clears the obstruction and permits unhindered sewer waste flow.
The sewer snake will not be able to clear your sewer lines unless you continue twisting it until the obstruction has been fully broken up. If required, the drain auger can reach farther down the sewer line and can even be manipulated around pipe bends.
Drain Augers vs. Drain Snakes
After presenting the idea of the plumbing snake, it’s critical to address a frequent source of misunderstanding: the distinction between drain snakes and drain augers. Despite the fact that these terms are commonly used interchangeably, they differ in subtle ways, especially in terms of their intended use and design.
Drain Snakes
The term “drain snake” usually refers to a more basic, narrower instrument intended for domestic use. Drain snakes are perfect for clearing small blockages that are located close to the drain opening. They typically have a flexible metal wire that can bend around the curves of residential pipes. The clogging material is removed or recovered using the tiny auger or coiled hook at the end of this wire. In order to extend and retract the wire, a drain snake is typically operated manually by turning a handle.
Drain Augers
On the other hand, a drain auger is typically more durable and is employed for larger obstructions that are more difficult to extract. Because drain augers have a thicker and longer cable, they can clear clogs in harder-to-reach places, like main sewer lines. The spiral-shaped cone at the end of the cable serves as the auger portion of this tool, which is made to forcefully clear stubborn obstructions. Although many drain augers are hand-cranked, some models have motors, which add strength and efficiency for difficult tasks.
The choice between a drain snake and a drain auger
The type and location of the obstruction play a major role in determining whether to use a drain snake or a drain auger. A typical drain snake is usually adequate for common clogs in sinks, showers, and bathtubs. However, a drain auger is the better instrument for larger, more difficult blockages in main pipes.
Plumbing tools like drain snakes and augers offer unique solutions for drain issues, ensuring efficient flow and enhancing knowledge of various plumbing challenges.
Drain Snaking Tips
- Start Gently: When you begin snaking, do so gently. Exerting excessive force can lead to the snake coiling back or causing damage to the pipe. Allow the tool to perform the work while you guide it.
- Maintain the Right Angle: Try to keep the snake as straight as possible when entering the drain. Twisting the cable excessively can impede its mobility and diminish its efficacy.
- Rotate Properly: As you feed the snake into the drain, rotate it slowly. This rotation helps the head of the snake to navigate through bends in the pipe and aids in breaking up or hooking the clog.
- Avoid Force on Resistance: If you encounter resistance, don’t force the snake. This could be the clog, a bend in the pipe, or a junction. Apply gentle pressure and slow rotation to work through the blockage.
- Know Your Pipes: Be aware of the type of pipes you have. Older, fragile pipes may require a softer approach to avoid damage, while more robust piping can handle a bit more force.
- Use Water to Help: After partially clearing the clog, running water can help break it down further. The water flow can assist in moving the dislodged clog material along the pipe.
- Regular Checks: Periodically withdraw the snake to check the progress and remove any debris attached to it. Additionally, this precaution can aid in avoiding the inadvertent pushing of the clog deeper into the pipe.
- Patience is Key: Exercise patience throughout the process. Effective snaking can take time, especially if the clog is stubborn. Avoid rushing, as it may result in mistakes and potential damage.
- Clean Up Afterward: Once the clog is cleared, thoroughly clean the area and disinfect if necessary, as the process can sometimes be messy and spread bacteria.
- Assess the Situation: If multiple attempts with the snake don’t clear the clog, or if you notice any abnormalities like water backing up in other places, it might be time to call a professional.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between a drain snake and a drain auger is crucial for effective plumbing maintenance. While the drain snake is ideal for minor clogs, the auger for kitchen sink blockages offers more power for stubborn issues. By utilizing these tools appropriately, homeowners can tackle common drainage problems efficiently. Regular use and proper technique can help maintain a healthy plumbing system, reducing the need for professional intervention.
To explore the latest innovations in water and energy technologies, and discover a wide range of products and solutions from around the world, you can visit the virtual exhibition AQUA ENERGY EXPO which featuring leading companies in water treatment, desalination, and sustainable energy through the following link:
References
What Is A Sewer Snake: A Beginner’s Guide On How To Use It
https://www.mdsewer.com/blog/sewer-snake
What Is a Plumbing Snake and How Do You Use It?
https://www.cpiplumbing.com/what-is-a-plumbing-snake-and-how-do-you-use-it/
