There are drain snakes for every task of drain cleaning in Queens, these indispensible tools come in a variety of shapes and sizes and using the right one for the job can be a bit confusing if you don’t fully understand how they are used. Drain snakes, sometimes called augers are a normal tool of the trade for plumbers but they can also be rented if you think you can tackle the clogged drain yourself. Let’s look at the types available.
All drain snakes work on the same principle; they are little more than a flexible cable with a hook arrangement on the working end. The cable can get around bends and changes in elevation of any drain and when the hook comes into contact with the clog, it literally chews its way through it.
1. The smallest and least expensive snake is a hand operated device, the hooked end is offered into the drain and a simple movable handle is turned. As the snake works its way into the drain, the handle is relocated and eventually the clog is cleared.
2. A top snake is the smallest that can be motorized; it is most often used when the drain cleaning in Queens is the tub, shower, bathroom sink, kitchen sink and washing machine. The cable length rarely exceeds 25 feet. Although they are available as a manual device, the electric model makes the job much easier.
3. A mini-rooter has a larger diameter flexible cable and is normally available with cable lengths of 50 or 75 feet. These machines are ideal for drains of two inches diameter or less and normally are offered into the drain via the trap or through the roof vent, hence the need for length.
4. The largest machines are usually owned and operated by professionals who do drain cleaning in Queens. These machines have quite large cable, perhaps 5/8” in diameter and carry 100 feet of it. These machines are used for clearing clogs in larger diameter pipes and are the devices used for clearing tree roots in the main drain leading to the sewer system.
Most drain snakes work in a similar fashion but it is highly recommended that the bigger units be used by professionals who are well acquainted with the way to operate them best.
Drain cleaning in Queens normally requires the use of a drain snake. Rather than attempt this job yourself you are welcome to contact Citywide Sewer & Drain.
