When a sink, toilet, or shower drain is clogged, many homeowners grab a plunger or even a commercial cleaner. These techniques are always effective, but not in all cases. Some stiff clogs require a more powerful tool. This is where the drain augering comes in.
Have you ever wondered what it is and whether it is the right kind of solution for your home? This guide will put it in simple terms.
What is a drain auger?
A drain auger is a long, flexible instrument that removes obstructions within pipes. It is also known as a plumbing snake. An auger is used to loosen up the obstruction. The method is more reliable than chemical cleaning, which only dissolves soft material and can eventually damage the pipes.
Drain augers are commonly used by plumbers as an initial measure to fix hard-to-clear clogs that plungers do not loosen.
How does it work?
A conventional auger contains a coiled metal cable that is fed into the drain. On the tip is a corkscrew design that rotates when the plumber turns on a handle. On motorized models, it drives the cable forward.
This movement enables the auger to either trap on the clog or cut through it and resume the flow of water. In case of deeper or more complex blockages, specialists can employ specialized augers. These are tailored to bigger pipes such as sewer lines.
When should you use an auger?
Drain augering is particularly useful when:
- A plunger hasn’t worked.
- There is slow or no draining of water.
- You think that there is hair, grease, or small things that are clogging the pipe.
- The plumbing system is deeper in the system and not reachable.
It is secure and dependable in most blockages of the house. However, constant clogging can indicate a more significant problem that needs to be examined by a specialist.
Can you do it yourself?
Most hardware stores stock simple handheld augers. They can be useful with simple clogs near the drain. Nonetheless, it takes practice to use one appropriately.
Overworking or applying an incorrect size auger will ruin your pipes. In more difficult blockages, particularly in major sewer lines, it is better to entrust the task to a plumber with the appropriate equipment and experience.
Why you should call the experts instead
DIY augering works in minor instances. However, professional drain augering Calgary is recommended. Here is why:
Special tools
Plumbers have motorized augers that can travel further and tackle bigger clogs.
Experience
Experienced drain cleaners understand how to de-block and not damage the pipes.
Prevention
Professional plumbers can detect latent problems like intrusion of roots or damage to pipes. These issues cannot be resolved with a small auger.
Concluding thoughts
Drain augering is a time-tested technique of removing stiff clogs naturally. You can address the minor obstructions using a simple auger. However, hiring an expert guarantees that the task is completed safely and efficiently. This is important, particularly when the issue continues to recur.
Now that you know how the drain augering process works, you know what to do when your plumbing slows down next time. Always seek assistance to avoid damaging your plumbing system.
