What is an Auger for Plumbing?
If you have ever dealt with a stubborn clog that just will not budge, you may have heard the term auger mentioned by a plumber. But what is an auger for plumbing, and why is it one of the most trusted tools in the trade? In this post, we will walk through what an auger is, how it works, and when to call a professional like Bowers Plumbing & Remodel to handle the job safely and effectively.
Understanding What an Auger Does
An auger is a specialized plumbing tool designed to clear clogs from drains and pipes. Unlike chemical drain cleaners that can damage pipes or provide only temporary relief, an auger physically removes or breaks up the obstruction inside your drain line. It uses a long, flexible metal cable that is manually or mechanically fed into the drain. Once the auger reaches the blockage, the rotating cable either pulls the material back out or breaks it apart, restoring flow.
Plumbers use augers of different sizes and types depending on the job. A small hand auger might be used to clear a sink or bathtub drain, while a larger machine auger is better suited for main drains or sewer lines that have heavier buildup or roots.
The Difference Between Snakes and Augers
Many people use the term snake and auger interchangeably, but there are a few differences. A plumbing snake is often a simpler tool, designed for lighter clogs closer to the surface of a drain. It is effective for smaller pipes like those found in sinks or showers. An auger, however, is typically more powerful and can reach deeper into the plumbing system to tackle more serious clogs or blockages in the main drain.
In short, all augers are snakes, but not all snakes are augers. Plumbers often carry both, using the right tool for the job depending on the location and severity of the clog.
Common Uses for a Plumbing Auger
A plumbing auger can be used in several situations, including:
Clearing a backed-up kitchen sink drain
Removing debris or buildup from a bathtub or shower drain
Breaking up tree roots that have entered a sewer line
Dislodging waste or paper buildup from a toilet trap
Clearing heavy blockages deep in the main drain line
While some small hand augers can be found at hardware stores, using them incorrectly can cause more harm than good. Feeding the cable too aggressively or turning it too quickly can scratch or damage the inside of your pipes. Professional plumbers know how to gauge the resistance and use the right auger cable tension for each type of drain.
Types of Drain Augers
There are several types of augers used in plumbing, each designed for specific drain cleaning needs:
1. Hand Augers
These are operated manually and are ideal for smaller drains such as sinks and tubs. The plumber turns a handle to feed the cable into the drain and rotate it through the clog.
2. Toilet Augers
Also known as closet augers, these tools are shaped to fit inside the toilet trap without scratching the porcelain. They are perfect for clearing toilet clogs that are too deep for a plunger to reach.
3. Machine Augers
For larger or more complex blockages, plumbers use powered augers that run on electricity. These are often called drum augers or electric snakes. They can clear long stretches of pipe, including the main drain or sewer line, with more force and precision.
Why You Should Call a Professional
Although some homeowners may try to snake drains themselves, there are many times when calling a professional plumber is the best choice. At Bowers Plumbing & Remodel, our technicians have years of experience identifying the cause of a clog and using the proper tools to clear it safely. Whether it is a simple sink clog or a blocked main drain, we have the right plumbing auger and machine equipment to handle the job efficiently.
Attempting to use a drain auger without the right technique can lead to costly damage or incomplete removal of the clog. A trained plumber can also inspect the drain line with a camera to confirm the problem is resolved and that there are no deeper issues like pipe corrosion or tree root intrusion.
Preventing Future Clogs
Even the best drain cleaning service cannot prevent every future clog, but regular maintenance can make a big difference. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the kitchen sink, and be mindful of what goes into toilets and bathtub drains. Scheduling professional inspections from Bowers Plumbing & Remodel can also help identify small issues before they turn into full blockages that require an auger.
Our team provides comprehensive plumbing services, including preventive drain cleaning, leak detection, and pipe repair. By keeping your system maintained, you can avoid emergency clogs and costly damage down the road.
Partner with Bowers Plumbing & Remodel
Whether you need expert help with a drain that refuses to clear or want to prevent future plumbing problems, Bowers Plumbing & Remodel is here to help. Our trained team uses top-quality plumbing tools and equipment to safely restore your drains to full function. From hand augers to powerful machine augers, we handle every job with care and precision.
If you have been wondering what an auger for plumbing is or when to use one, the answer is simple. It is a vital tool in the hands of a professional — one that keeps your home’s plumbing running smoothly and your drains free from clogs.
