plumbing snake
A plumbing snake, also known as a drain auger, is an essential plumbing tool designed to clear stubborn blockages in pipes and drains. This versatile device consists of a long, flexible metal cable with a coiled spring on one end and a handle or motorized unit on the other. The snake's design allows it to navigate through complex pipe systems, reaching obstructions that conventional plungers cannot access. Modern plumbing snakes come in various lengths, typically ranging from 25 to 100 feet, making them suitable for both residential and commercial applications. The tool's working mechanism involves inserting the cable into the drain and rotating it either manually or through a powered motor, allowing the auger to break up or retrieve debris causing the blockage. Advanced models feature self-feeding mechanisms and variable speed controls, providing users with enhanced precision and efficiency. The snake's spiral head is specifically engineered to grab onto obstacles while simultaneously breaking them down, ensuring effective removal of common blockages such as hair, soap scum, food particles, and even tree roots in outdoor plumbing systems.