What Is a Drain Auger?

There are so many plumbing tools out there, and it can be easy to get them confused if you don’t have the knowledge that professionals do. Many people think a drain auger is the same as a drain snake, but that isn’t exactly the case. So, what is a drain auger? Keep reading to find out. 

Defining a Drain Auger

A drain auger is a plumber’s snake for clearing a trap and drain. This means that it’s a specific kind of plumber’s snake. Plumber’s snakes are flexible tools used to free up clogged pipes. 

How a Drain Auger Works

If you have a clogged drain of a specific size (more on that below), you can use a drain auger to clear it out. Feed the auger cable into the drain and use a twisting motion to either loosen the clog up or pull it out.

Drain augers can be hand crank, plug-in, or cordless, depending on your preference. The tool’s tip will have a corkscrew-like cable, making it easier to break through drain clogs. 

Having a drain auger on hand can be great for many homeowners. For simple clogs, you can use this tool to handle the issue yourself instead of calling a professional. Depending on your chosen tool, it may even be less expensive than a single service call. 

When to Use a Drain Auger

A drain auger clears up larger drain pipes like toilet and shower drains. Specifically, you can use a drain auger on pipes with a diameter between one and a half inches and three inches. 

This makes a drain auger different from a plumbing snake in the professional world. You should use a plumbing snake on smaller drains like sink drains. Plumbing snakes are used on pipes with diameters ranging from one and a quarter to two inches. 

Know Your Plumbing Tools

To use a drain auger (or any other plumbing tool) correctly, make sure you do your research before starting the task. Improper use of plumbing tools can lead to further complications and more costly damages. 

If you have any doubts or concerns, contact us. Our plumbing professionals are here to help you with all your plumbing needs, from minor clogs to more severe issues. It’s always better to contact a professional when unsure of the task than to keep doing it on your own.