Using incorrect tools to clean a drain can be ineffective and cause more damage to the pipes. If damage occurs it can result in higher than expected repair costs and added frustration. To prevent accidentally using the wrong tool on your drain continue on to the article below where the most essential drain cleaning tools are outlined.
1. Drain Snake
A drain snake is a tool designed to unclog build up without disturbing the pipes. Oftentimes, this device is used if standard methods of dislodging a clog (such as a plunger) are ineffective. When compared to other methods, the snake is better able to move matter given its slender and flexible design that allows it to slide through the system.
Homeowners dealing with clogs can use the snake by grabbing onto the handle and moving the coils down the drain opening until it reaches the matter. Once the obstruction is felt the snake will need to be pushed back and forth to break it up and pull it out. Although most snakes are long enough to reach build up its always best to contact a professional who will be better able to remove and detect the cause of the problem if it cannot.
2. Plunger
The most common tool used to clean a drain is a plunger. Plungers can be found in most households and are used to remove clogs forced suction and compression. It’s important to note that there are different types of plungers so it’s best to make sure you’re using the correct one before attempting to remove a clog. To prevent accidentally using the wrong one homeowner should consider contacting a professional to handle any persistent clogging issues.
3. Wire Brushes
To help clear the drain of smaller clogs and built up matter its recommended to use wire brushes. Overtime, small bits of built up matter and sludge can persist in the pipes and prevent water from flowing as normal. The brushes are perfect to remove these small items seeing as it’s a thin and made of a long and flexible material that can maneuver through the pipes. By inserting the wire brush down the drain opening homeowners will be able to work the brush through the system and clear the pathway of smaller clogs.
4. Chemicals
Many homeowners and plumbers turn to chemicals and cleaning agents to help keep their drains clear. Depending on the strength of the formula most clearing agents use highly corrosive chemicals to break up matter and allow water to freely pass by. Although drain clearing chemicals are a common choice of many homeowners, using them frequently can result in added damage to the home’s drains if it’s used too often because it can cause the pipes to deteriorate overtime. Given the severity of this issue, homeowners that deal with frequent clogs should contact a professional to investigate the exact cause of the problem and avoid using chemicals to clear it.
5. Scour Jetting
Another method that can remove built up matter from drains is scour jetting. This process uses highly pressurized water to move clogs and break up bits along the pipe’s walls. To reach the build-up, the machine comes equipped with an expertly designed nose that is able to fit into the drain and move along its system until it reaches the clog. Once inserted in the drain the power of its hose will be able move matter more effectively when compared to other methods that rely on manual power. However, to ensure this process is done correctly homeowners are recommended to contact a professional that has experience handling the machine.
