6 Different Types of Drain Cleaning Equipment Professional Plumbers Use

Every drain is different, and so are the problems that come with them. Therefore, plumbers have a range of cleaners and tools in their arsenal to help them deal with whatever lurks below.

You may recognize some of these tools from your local supermarket or hardware store, while you might not recognize others as much. In this blog, we will examine six types of drain cleaning equipment commonly used by plumbers in North York. 

1. Standard drain cleaners

When tackling a clog or slow drain, we often first grab a drain cleaner or clog remover. These are great for clearing small items and usually work quickly.

The plumber’s version of this drain cleaner is similar in that it could be a liquid or a powder and is stronger than products you can buy off the shelf. These powerful cleaners require care and attention, and as they are corrosive, they usually require some form of PPE (personal protection equipment). 

2. Air-burst drain cleaners

If the corrosive cleaner does not get the job done, then some plumbers will use an “air-burst” cleaner. This high-powered jet of air or carbon dioxide gas is forced through the drain and down the pipe, clearing the stubborn clog.

The clog doesn’t stand a chance as it is disintegrated by the force. The pipes can then be flushed with warm water to move things along. 

Air-burst cleaning is a great non-chemical option and is safe for some older pipes, as long as they are still in good condition. Weaker or damaged pipes may suffer a little more, and there is a risk of worsening damage, but your plumber will investigate and advise you before carrying out this cleaning. 

3. Hydro jetting

Hydro jetting is a fantastic option for things that just won’t budge. Not only does it clear the clog and debris, but it refreshes the pipes internally, giving them a good clean at the same time. 

Again, this option is not for the weaker pipes. Hydro jetting involves spraying water at very high pressure into the pipe system. It’s great for clogs that are further out of reach for liquid or air cleaners and is very fast-acting. 

Commonly used for the larger pipes under city sidewalks and roads, it is becoming popular for modern homes due to its fast action and efficiency.

4. Drain snakes

A drain snake is a device with a brush-like end attached to a very long, coiled wire. It can be fed through the pipe to break up the clog. As a homeowner, you can purchase an effective drain snake from your hardware store.

However, for the more stubborn problems, your local North York plumber will have sturdier and longer drain snakes, including a larger one with a different coiled tip to get the job done if the brush fails.

5. The common plunger

Never underestimate the power of the common plunger. It is a staple in everyone’s toolbox. Of course, plungers are not just for the toilet; they also work great with sink and floor drains.

With the evolution of the toilet, plungers have adapted to still work well with them, coming in different shapes and sizes. Some plungers even jet air into the drain for extra cleaning power (not to be confused with air-burst cleaning).

6. Video cameras

Have you ever wondered what the inside of your pipes looked like? Well, your plumber can certainly show you. 

A small camera tip is attached to a long cable (typically several feet in length), which is then fed through the drain. The images are sent back to a monitor on the ground with the worker in real time. The cable is controlled from the surface and can turn and focus on things as it passes.

With the advances in plumbing technology, video cameras allow plumbers and other tradespeople to see what is going on underground, and detect any issues before engaging in a service that could cause more damage.

Pipes are typically scoped prior to methods like hydro jetting. This allows the workers to see where the clog is, the size of the clog, and the condition of the pipes before commencing. You don’t want to send highly pressurized water into pipes that are broken and crumbling underground, as this can cause them to burst and collapse. 

Contact the Professional Plumbers in North York

With so many issues that can happen in clogged pipes, your professional plumber in North York will have the solution. Brothers Plumbing has over 50 years of experience dealing with everything from grease and food-causing clogs to other, more non-typical items flushed or forced down the drains. 

We have the right tools, cleaning products, and technology on hand, so we can determine the issue, deal with it, and then clean it all up before you realize what is happening.

We provide straightforward pricing, no hidden fees, and fast service for anything that your pipes require. Whether you are looking for regular drain cleaning, renovation assistance, or emergency plumbing services, Brothers Plumbing does it all.

You can call our North York plumbers at 800-741-8471 or visit us online and see for yourself the reasons why we are your most trusted plumbing experts ready to serve you.