What Equipment Is Used To Clear Drains?

Pipe Cameras

Specially designed waterproof video cameras for drainage systems are called pipe cameras. These cameras are mounted to sewage snakes, which can push through pipelines and reach otherwise inaccessible pipes to do visual inspections. Pipe cameras play a crucial role in identifying blocked drains and locating the root of clogs within the plumbing system, helping plumbers address issues effectively. These cameras may be inserted into nearly any pipe, whether underground or behind a wall.

With the use of pipe cameras, plumbers can locate blockages caused by food scraps, toilet paper, or even tree roots, avoiding the need for invasive techniques. By identifying problems like standing water or a blocked pipe early on, they help mitigate potential health risks such as harmful bacteria, unpleasant odours, and the spread of harmful pathogens. Pipe cameras are invaluable tools for maintaining drainage systems, ensuring that problems are resolved as soon as possible to prevent further damage to a home's structure or public sewers.

Drain Snakes

To unclog the drain, drain snakes are used. A drain snake is a long rod placed into the pipe with a corkscrew-like tip that rotates to dislodge the obstruction. Once loosened, the removed material is extracted from the pipe. This device is particularly effective for clearing soft obstructions such as hair, oil, and soap scum. Certain drain snakes come with specialised tips designed to cut through tougher materials, including tree roots. There are various types of drain snakes available, each suited to different tasks, with the auger snake being the most popular for unclogging pipes.

There are several advantages to using a drain snake. It is cost-effective, time-saving, and eliminates the need for harsh chemicals that can damage the plumbing system and pollute the environment. Regularly cleaning with a drain snake can prevent blockages from forming, which is especially important for older pipes prone to clogging. Drain snakes efficiently tackle drain clogs, helping to avoid standing water, unpleasant odours, and potential health risks associated with stagnant water and harmful bacteria. When dealing with clogged drains, using a drain snake is a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to chemical cleaners, providing a reliable way to keep your drainage system in good condition.

Cable Cleaning

Cable cleaning is an effective method for tackling both small and large plumbing operations. These devices break through blockages using rotating blades at the end of cables, which also help to scrape out residue build-up on the pipes. Cable cleaners are available in various designs, including sectional, continuous, and drum types. Sectional cable cleaners use multiple cables, each up to 15 feet long, making them a preferred choice due to their safety and practicality. Shorter cables are easier to replace in case of kinks or breakage, further enhancing their usability.

The spinning blades used in cable cleaning are particularly useful for routine maintenance, cutting through tough obstructions such as tree roots and other debris. This method is ideal for clearing small drains, removing residue from corroded pipes, and addressing clogged drains in kitchen sinks or bathroom pipes. By preventing water stagnation, foul smells, and health risks caused by harmful bacteria or other microorganisms, cable cleaning helps to maintain the functionality of drainage systems and reduce the build-up that can lead to more severe cases of blockage.

Drain Auger

A drain auger, also known as a power snake, is a more powerful and motorised version of a drain snake, designed to tackle tougher clogs. The motor provides additional force, making it easier to cut through difficult obstructions such as tree roots and severely blocked drains. Drain augers consist of an auger and a cable that are inserted into the pipe, working similarly to a drain snake but with enhanced power. They are particularly effective for external use, such as clearing a sewage drain outside the house, or for tackling stubborn clogs in drainage systems.

Drain augers are typically wider than drain snakes and can be used on pipes ranging from 1.5 inches to 3 inches in diameter. Their longer hoses allow them to access deeper clogs with ease. These devices are versatile and suitable for use in bathrooms, including shower and toilet drains, as well as in kitchen sinks and outdoor plumbing. By addressing blockages caused by food scraps, wet wipes, or other build-up, drain augers help prevent water stagnation, unpleasant odours, and health risks such as the spread of harmful bacteria or pathogens. Their ability to effectively manoeuvre and clear difficult clogs makes them an essential tool for maintaining drainage systems and preventing potential health hazards.

Hydro-Jet

Hydro-jetting is one of the most effective methods for removing stubborn drain clogs. This technique uses a highly pressurised jet of water to cut through obstructions and flush them out. It is capable of clearing large volumes of material and debris while also eliminating scale build-up inside pipes. Hydro-jetting is particularly useful for tackling challenging blockages that other tools, such as drain snakes or augers, cannot handle. This method is suitable for dealing with severe cases of drain clogs caused by food scraps, grease, wet wipes, or other build-up. The specific hydro-jet equipment used will depend on the severity of the obstruction, the size of the pipes, and the condition of the plumbing system.

High-pressure water jetting is not only ideal for clearing blockages but also for maintaining drainage systems. By thoroughly cleaning the pipes, hydro-jets help prevent the build-up of residue that could lead to future blockages, standing water, or unpleasant odours. This makes hydro-jetting an excellent preventative measure for both homes and public sewers, ensuring the drainage system remains in good working order. Additionally, by removing harmful bacteria, other microorganisms, and debris, hydro-jetting reduces potential health risks such as skin problems, stomach cramps, and other health hazards linked to contaminated water or raw sewage. This process is highly effective for clearing obstructions in kitchen sinks, outdoor drains, and even larger systems with severe clogs.

Hydro-jetting also works in tandem with other techniques like pipelining and patch repair. By clearing the pipes beforehand, it ensures repairs are carried out on clean surfaces, improving the overall effectiveness of the maintenance. Whether addressing immediate blockages or implementing regular cleaning as a preventative measure, hydro-jetting offers a comprehensive solution for keeping your drainage system free of clogs, stagnant water, and potential health risks. Its ability to handle difficult blockages while maintaining the integrity of the pipes makes it a preferred method for long-term pipe care and maintenance.