Trystan Casey
Electric drain augers, also known as plumbing snakes, are long, flexible tools used to clear blockages in drains and pipes. They are powered by electricity, batteries, or by attaching a cordless drill, and are more powerful than manual augers. Electric drain augers are easy to use and can save you money on plumbing costs. However, it is important to use them properly to avoid damaging your pipes. Before using an electric drain auger, ensure there are no chemical cleaners in the pipe, as these can be harmful to your skin and eyes. Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection. To use the auger, insert the snake through the drain pipe, rotating the handle at a consistent pace. When you reach the clog, rotate the head to catch and break it up, then gently pull out the auger, being careful not to rotate the drain. Repeat these steps if necessary until the clog is cleared.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Electric drain augers are more expensive than manual augers, with prices starting at $100. |
| Speed | Electric augers have more RPMs than manual augers and can clear clogs faster. |
| Ease of use | Electric augers are easier on the body and have an automatic feed and retract system, making them easier to use than manual augers. |
| Safety | Electric augers are generally safe to use but can damage pipes if used improperly. Always wear safety glasses and gloves when cleaning a drain. |
| Maintenance | To maintain drains, avoid sending items like oil, fat, grease, hair, cleaning products, coffee grounds, and eggshells down the drain. Also, avoid harsh drain cleaners as they can corrode pipes. |
| Severity of clog | Assess the severity and location of the clog before choosing an auger. Deep clogs may require a longer cable (50 feet instead of the standard 25 feet). |
| Frequency of use | Electric augers can be used anytime to clear clogs and routinely clear debris from pipes. |
| Comparison to manual augers | Electric augers are more powerful than manual augers and can handle more difficult clogs. |
| Preparation | Before using an electric auger, plug it into a power socket, put on rubber gloves, and pour a cupful of drain cleaner into the blocked drain. |
| Technique | Insert the head of the auger into the drain pipe, uncoil the snake using the handle, and rotate it at a consistent pace. Once the clog is reached, rotate the head to catch it, then gently pull out the auger. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric drain augers are more cost-effective than manual augers or plumbers
Electric drain augers are an efficient and cost-effective solution for unclogging drains. They are a one-time investment that can significantly reduce plumbing expenses. Motorized drain snakes are powerful tools that offer the torque and reach needed for professional-quality results without the need for a plumber. They are especially useful for tackling tough clogs caused by tree roots or solid blockages.
The cost of a motorized drain auger ranges from $200 to $500, with models like the Ridgid K-400 and DEWALT DCD200B offering superior capabilities and longevity. While this may seem expensive, it is important to consider the frequency of use and the potential savings on plumber calls over time. For example, budget-friendly manual drain augers cost between $15 and $45 but are only effective in handling 80% of household clogs.
Electric drain augers, such as the WORKPRO 20V Electric Drain Auger Tool Set, offer impressive features such as a flexible 25-foot cable, a speed of up to 560 rpm, and a quick 1-hour recharge time. This makes it a smart alternative to expensive plumber visits. Additionally, electric drain augers are lightweight, user-friendly, and easy to operate, making them accessible for DIY maintenance. They are also safer to use than chemical drain cleaners, which can be harmful to your skin and pipes.
When choosing an electric drain auger, consider the length and thickness of the cable, as well as the severity and location of the clog. For deeper clogs, opt for a longer cable length, such as the 50-foot or 100-foot options offered by some models. By investing in an electric drain auger, you can effectively manage your drain maintenance and save on costly plumber fees.
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How to prepare your auger
To prepare your auger, there are a few important steps to follow. Firstly, identify the severity and location of the clog. If the clog is deep inside the pipe, opt for a longer cable, such as a 50-foot one, instead of a standard 25-foot cable. Assess whether there is a drain cleaning solution in the pipe. If there are chemicals in the drain, proceed with caution as these can be harmful to your skin and eyes. It is advisable to let these chemicals drain before using the auger, and always wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.
Next, decide on your power source. Electric augers can be powered by electricity or batteries, or you can attach a cordless drill. Some augers are rechargeable, which is convenient and avoids the need for a trailing cable. Ensure your electric snake is plugged into a socket, or, if using a battery-powered option, check that it is adequately charged.
Now, prepare the auger physically. If your auger has a drum, ensure the cable is coiled inside. Some augers have interchangeable cables and cutter heads, so fit the appropriate head and length for the task. If you are using a manual crank auger, you may need to attach a power drill to rotate the auger effectively.
Finally, before you begin, familiarise yourself with the operation of your auger. Understand how to control the speed and direction of the cable and how to use the feed system. Remember to place the cable into the drain before activating the feed to avoid tangles.
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Using the automatic feed system
Using an electric drain auger with an automatic feed system is a faster, cleaner, and safer way to clear clogged drains than a manual feed system. The automatic feed system does the pushing and pulling of the cable, so you don't have to touch the cable or create a mess, reducing the risk of injury to your hands and fingers.
To use an electric drain auger with an automatic feed system, first select the right size and type of auger for the job. Some augers are designed for small line cleaning, while others are meant for medium or heavy-duty applications. Make sure the auger is suitable for the pipe diameter and length you are working with.
Once you have selected the appropriate auger, set it up according to the manufacturer's instructions. Place the end of the cable into the drain and start the automatic feed mechanism. The cable will feed into the drain until it meets resistance. You can then use the variable speed control to adjust the speed of the cable, increasing it to break up tougher clogs.
If you encounter a particularly tough clog, you may need to use a different head on the cable, such as a point or a root cutter. You can also use a guide tube or spring to help guide the cable through the drain and prevent cable whipping and kinking. Remember to keep the feed free of excessive soil and grit to ensure smooth operation.
After you have cleared the clog, retract the cable and clean the auger according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Removing the P-trap
Before removing the P-trap, it is important to understand the risks associated with using a drain auger. If used improperly, you may damage your pipes or create leaks. Therefore, it is important to know how your auger works and how to use it properly. Additionally, if there are any chemical cleaners in the drain, proceed with caution as these chemicals are harmful to the skin and can cause blindness. It is recommended to let these chemicals drain before operating the auger and to wear safety glasses and gloves during the process.
Now, to remove the P-trap, start by locating it. The P-trap is a curved component of the drain that connects to the larger sewer pipe system and can usually be found below the sink. Once you have located the P-trap, you can proceed to remove it. The P-trap can be removed manually by unscrewing the parts underneath the sink or by using an adjustable pipe wrench.
After removing the P-trap, carefully inspect and clean it. This is important to ensure that any clogs or obstructions are removed. You may also choose to remove the trap arm, which is the part of the pipe between the P-trap and the pipe that enters the wall. However, if it is glued onto the wall, do not attempt to remove it.
Once you have cleaned and reassembled the P-trap, you can test the drain to see if the clog has been cleared. Simply run water in the sink and observe if it is draining smoothly. If the sink is still clogged, you may need to repeat the process or try snaking the drain with an auger to break up or remove any remaining obstructions.
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What to do if your drain is still clogged
If your drain is still clogged after using an electric drain auger, there are several steps you can take to try and clear the blockage.
Firstly, it is important to assess whether you are using the correct type of auger for the job. For clogs deep in the drain or sewer pipes, an extra-long auger that is 50 feet or longer may be required to reach the blockage. You may also need to rent a power auger for particularly stubborn clogs. The type of clog will also determine the effectiveness of the auger; hair or paper clogs, for example, are more likely to be successfully cleared with a metal corkscrew end.
Secondly, check that the auger is clean and functioning correctly. Old clogs can become embedded in the corkscrew end, preventing the auger from snagging new debris. Ensure that the thumbscrew is tightened securely, as failure to do so can cause the cable to not rotate when you twist the handle.
If the auger still fails to clear the blockage, it may be necessary to contact a professional plumber. They will be able to locate and remove the obstruction and advise on any further steps required to maintain your drains.
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Frequently asked questions
Before using an electric drain auger, check if there is a drain-cleaning solution in the pipe. If there are chemicals in the drain, use the auger with caution as they can be harmful to the skin and cause blindness. It is best to let these chemicals drain before using the auger and always wear safety glasses and gloves.
Electric drain augers are powered by electricity or batteries, or you can attach a cordless drill. They are used to clear blockages in drains and pipes by using a cable with a bulb head or corkscrew end to clean out drains and clogs. Before using the drain auger, uncoil the snake using the handle and rotate the handle at a consistent pace. When the auger reaches the clog, rotate the head back and forth and up and down. Once it reaches the clog, gently pull out the auger.
Avoid sending items down the drain that could lead to a clog, such as oil, fat, grease, hair, cleaning products, coffee grounds, and eggshells. Do not pour harsh drain cleaners down your sink or toilet as they can corrode pipes and cause damage.
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