Plumber 101: Drain Cleaning Tools

Finding a plumber for drain cleaning is so much easier now because of the internet. All you need to do is a quick search and a list of local plumbers will come up for your taking. What you should look for is a service provider with an informative website like the one for Certified Plumbing. Apart from a clear description of services, they also have a good collection of testimonials and informative articles.

Part of a professional plumber’s job is to have his own tools for the trade. Without these, he won’t be able to solve some of the complicated plumbing issues. The following are common plumber tools used for drain cleaning.

Plumber’s Drain Snake

A snake or auger is a long flexible cord made of metal wires. They are used to dislodge blockage in the drains by inserting it directly and using its end hook to take the blockage off. Some also try to push the blockage down the drain instead of taking it off. Some blockages can be taken apart if they are pierced in the middle, and then they can be flushed down.

Hydro Jet Cleaner

A hydrojetter is an electric tool that has a nozzle that is fixed to the pressure washer. It pours pressurized water into the pipes to force the blockage out. The pressure is meant to break down the clogging particles until they are small enough to flush down.

Plunger

Even homeowners own this tool in case there are minor blockages. If you notice the water is draining slower than usual, you can use this tool to dislodge any blocking particles inside. Since the water is still flowing in, it means the pipe is not completely blocked and might just need a little nudge.

Whenever the blockage is more serious than anticipated, more advanced tools are used to find out the problem. After which, the plumber might have to excavate a part of the plumbing system in order to remove and replace pipes and fittings.