Certified plumbers use drain machines to unclog, clean, and inspect drain lines and pipes. When you have a slow sink or bathtub drain, it backs up, or your toilet is clogged, we can use various types of equipment to remove obstructions without performing invasive repairs. The technology has advanced from the flat metal tape once used to clear drains to various hi-tech machines of different sizes and capabilities.
A modern drain machine features stronger cable and cutting components, a lighter design, and safer operation for trained professionals. Below are the types of machines a plumbing technician may use in residential and light commercial applications:
There are many brands of drain cleaning machines. Each piece of equipment may be characterized by the pipe size and maximum pipe run it is designed for. Drum capacity, cable size, motor power/rpm, weight, and the presence of a power cable feed, motor brake, air-operated foot switch, cable safety guide, and GFI power cord are other characteristics to consider.
When you’re facing a clogged drain or pipe, a plumber may use one of these common tools, depending on what’s most appropriate for the issue at hand:
For sink and other secondary drain lines, more powerful drain machines can be used. They feature larger, more rigid cables to address clogs in larger pipes. While some are suited for only 1.5-to-2.5-inch diameter pipes, sewer line cleaning machines can be used in pipes that are 3 inches in diameter or larger. They can also reach farther with a 100-foot cable, while a large cutting blade can tear through anything from clumps of toilet paper to tree roots.
Hydro jetting equipment is worth mentioning here because of its versatility and convenience. It shoots high-pressure jets of water to unclog pipes and clean pipe walls, Mini jetters are used for sinks and other secondary drain lines, while heavy-duty mainline jetters blast through buildup and small roots in larger drain and sewer lines.
Cameras are important for the use of drain machines. These come in different sizes and can transmit footage directly from the inside of pipes. A plumber can record the location and depth of the camera to identify exactly where a blockage, hole, crack, or intruded tree root is. If an additional repair is needed, the plumber can access the pipe locally without extensive demolition or digging.
The drain cleaning tools mentioned in this article remove clogs and are great for preventative maintenance. Elmer’s Air Conditioning and Plumbing uses various drain machines for home drain and sewer cleaning in San Antonio and surrounding communities. We also offer camera inspection, plumbing repair, and 24/7 emergency service. Schedule your service appointment online or call 210-570-1717 to get started.
Owning a home brings comfort, stability, and pride—but it also comes with unexpected challenges. Emergencies rarely happen at convenient times, and when they do, they can quickly turn into costly and stressful situations. From sudden leaks to power failures, preparation is key. According to American Home Shield, 87% of homeowners experienced an issue requiring professional […]
Winter is all cozy vibes—crackling fireplaces, fuzzy socks, and hot cocoa in hand. But while you’re soaking up the season, your plumbing might be quietly plotting a cold-weather catastrophe. Sure, we may not be shoveling snow every morning—but when winter hits Texas, it comes in strong and fast. One surprise cold front and suddenly your […]
Homeownership brings with it a sense of pride and commitment, yet it also demands regular maintenance and care. While it may be tempting to defer small home repairs in an effort to save money, the long-term consequences often tell a different story. Regular upkeep can prevent larger, costlier issues down the line, ensuring not only […]
