What Is A Drain Snake
When clogs happen, drain snakes are a great way to clear out the mess. The terms snake and auger are often interchangeable. Both tools serve the same function. A drain snake device helps move a metal cable through the pipes, clearing any dirt and debris.
Drain snakes come in manual, mechanical and electric options. However, not all styles are right for every clog. Learning the best drain snakes for every occasion is essential.
If you dont feel comfortable trying to clear a clogged pipe yourself, call a professional plumber for help.
Types Of Drain Snakes
Before you can find the best drain snakes for your clog, it helps to know the differences between the four basic models. These models range in price depending on the features.
Manual Drain Snake:
Manual drain snakes, or non-powered drain snakes, are more affordable hand-held options that make easy work of clearing clogs. They are designed to be handy and compact.
Hand-Crank Drain Augers:
Hand-crank augers feature a handle you crank by hand to work the cable down through the drain. Since you operate this auger by hand, you can feel when it hits resistance and then work your way through the pipe. Hand-cranked drain snakes are also compact, which makes them easy to store.
Battery-Operated Drain Snakes:
If you tackle plumbing issues more than a few times a year, investing in a battery-operated drain snake is a great option. These augers use a rechargeable battery that makes them wireless yet powerful. They can range in cost, making it easy to find an entry-level option for inexpensive repairs or a professional-grade design for frequent fixes.
Electric Drain Snakes:
When you want full power but dont want to mess around with rechargeable batteries, electric drain snakes are a great option. These powerful augers are more of an investment, but they will last for many years. These arent the tools youll reach for when you have a simple clog in a sink. These heavy-duty machines are designed for clearing deep clogs in main lines or large floor drains.
What Is A Toilet Auger
You should keep a plunger in each bathroom in your house. Sometimes, though, a plunger isnt enough. When toilets get clogged, a hand-crank toilet snake or auger is the ideal solution.
The best toilet augers feature a vinyl coating over the cable. The vinyl coating will help protect the bowl against scratches and marks as you work. The manual design of these devices allows you to feel the cable as it unwinds through the pipes.
A clogged drain or toilet is often a problem you can solve yourself. When you have the right drain snake, its fairly easy to get your pipes flowing like normal again.
Dont wait until you have an urgent plumbing issue to get a drain snake. When you have one on hand, you can take quick action as soon as you notice a clog.
Be prepared with best drain snakes and augers. The Home Depot delivers online orders when and where you need them. If youre not ready to buy a drain snake, The Home Depot offers tool rental, so you can try one out.
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The Right Drain Snake For Every Clog
Bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks, toilets and showers are all susceptible to different types of clogs. Before grabbing a tool and clearing the drain, make sure you have the best plumbing snakes for the job. Every product varies, so read the manufacturers instructions before using a snake for plumbing repairs.
Best Drain Snakes for Sinks
Your bathroom sink is prone to build-up. Everything from hair and cosmetics to soap and dirt can accumulate in your sink, every time you wash your hands or get ready for the day. Because bathroom pipes are smaller, and you dont want to scratch the inside of the sink basin, start with a hand-crank drain snake.
Best Drain Snakes for Showers
When shower drains back up, it can cause standing water in the shower or bathtub. This can cause damage and create an unpleasant showering experience. A build-up of shower products, hair and dirt accumulates in the pipes, reducing the amount of water that flows through. When a bathtub or shower drain clogs, an electric auto-feed drain snake makes a great choice.
Best Drain Snake for Hair
Sink and shower drains see a build-up of hair over time. As the hair compacts, it causes a clog that can be difficult to clear. This mess requires a special type of snake with a head designed to grip onto hair. Look for a head with little hooks that will catch onto the hair and remove it cleanly. Choose one with a flexible design and a comfortable handle so its easy to maneuver through the pipes.