What Kind of Snake Do Plumbers Use?

When it comes to unclogging drains and pipes, plumbers rely on a trusty tool known as a plumber’s snake. This handy tool is a flexible metal cable that is used to clear blockages by being inserted into the pipe and twisted to break up the obstruction. But what exactly is a plumber’s snake, and how does it work?

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What Is a Plumber’s Snake?

A plumber’s snake, also known as a drain snake or a plumbing auger, is a long, flexible metal cable that is used to remove clogs and obstructions from drains and pipes. The snake is typically made of coiled wire with a sharp tip that can grab onto or break apart any debris that is causing a blockage. Plumbers use snakes of various lengths and widths depending on the size and location of the clog.

How Does a Plumber’s Snake Work?

When a plumber encounters a clogged drain, they will first insert the snake into the pipe until it reaches the blockage. Once the snake is in place, the plumber will twist it using a handle or a motorized device to break up the obstruction. The sharp tip of the snake can grab onto hair, grease, food particles, tree roots, or any other debris that is causing the blockage and pull it out of the pipe.

In some cases, the snake may also have a corkscrew or blade attachment that can cut through tough clogs like tree roots or hardened grease. This makes the plumber’s snake a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of plumbing issues.

Types of Plumber’s Snakes.

There are several different types of plumber’s snakes that plumbers use depending on the type of blockage and the size of the pipe. Some common types of plumber’s snakes include:

• Handheld snakes: These are manually operated snakes that are usually used for smaller drains and blockages.

• Closet augers: These are specialized snakes designed for clearing toilet clogs. They have a shorter, thicker cable and a protective sleeve to prevent scratching the porcelain.

• Electric snakes : These are motorized snakes that are powered by electricity or a battery. They are often used for tougher clogs in larger pipes.

• Drum snake: These snakes have a drum that holds the cable and can be spun manually or with a motor. They are commonly used for long, straight pipes.

Conclusion.

Plumbers rely on a variety of tools to get the job done, but the plumber’s snake is one of the most essential when it comes to clearing drains and pipes. With its flexible metal cable and sharp tip, the plumber’s snake can tackle even the toughest clogs with ease. Whether it’s hair, grease, food particles, or tree roots causing the blockage, the plumber’s snake is up to the task.

So, the next time you have a stubborn clog in your pipes, rest assured that your plumber will have the right tool for the job—a trusty plumber’s snake.