Which Plumbing Snake?

What type of plumbing snake is suited to which type of job? With a variety of makes, models and types of plumbing snakes available, it's important to choose the right drain auger for your job. This article will discuss the various jobs you may need to tackle using your plumbing snake and the type which is best suited to each job.

Clearing Clogged Toilets:

A water closet auger (also called a closet auger, toilet auger or toilet snake) is a special kind of plumbing snake specifically designed for clearing clogged toilets. It is shorter and more rigid than other drain augers, it is bent to allow access into the u-bend of the lavatory and it has a protective cover over the rod or cable. The protective cover is intended to prevent damage to delicate porcelain surfaces of most toilet fittings.

Clearing Clogged Basin or Shower Drains:

A hand auger (or hand spinner) is another kind of plumbing snake designed to clear clogged basin or shower drains. It consists of a cable with a handle at one end and an auger head at the other. It is normally longer than a closet auger and therefore has a longer reach. It is normally not quite as rigid. A variation is a model that fits on a power drill. Instead of turning the auger by hand, the motor of the power drill turns the auger head.

Clearing Tree Roots From Blocked Sewers:

A heavy duty sewer snake or plumbing snake is required for this job. It consists of a much longer, thicker cable, and is powered by its own electric motor. Some also have a drum the hold the cable. These larger models have a detachable auger blade designed for cutting through tree roots and other major obstructions. Care should be take with these more powerful units as plumbing can easily be damaged. If in doubt, a professional should be called in to handle these larger jobs.

Read more about plumbing snakes and drain snakes.

The Plumbing Snake And Other Handy Plumbing Tools

We've talked about plumbing snake usage - what they are, how to use them, what types there are, etc. But what else do you need in your toolbox to tackle those domestic plumbing jobs? This article will discuss some of the other tools a home handyman might like to have tucked away ready for the next plumbing repair job.

So what tools do you need?

A Plumbing Snake

As I said at the opening, I've already discussed plumbing snakes at length. If you need a refresher or have seen the articles yet, you might like to review them here.

• What's A Plumbing Snake
• How To Use A Plumbing Snake
• Plumbing Snakes: Types and Uses
• Plumbing Snake or Chemical Cleaner

A Plunger

A plunger is used to clear minor blockages in drains. It normally consists of a wooden handle with a rubber cup on the end. The plunger works by placing the rubber cup over the opening of the drain then working the handle up and down to alternately create pressure, then a vacuum against the blockage. If successful, the blockage will be dislodged and the drain will be cleared.

A Pipe Wrench

A pipe wrench is a type of adjustable wrench with toothed jaws. It's designed for turning threaded pipe fittings. A pipe wrench can be especially useful when clearing or cleaning the trap (the U-shaped pipe below the sink or basin). This may be necessary when other methods to clear a drain have been unsuccessful. Also may be required when something of value has been dropped down the sink.

Other Tools

Some tools which may be handy for more advanced jobs include a hacksaw, pipe cutter, adjustable spanner and locking pliers.

Click here for more information about how to use a plumbing snake.