The sewer spiral, or the so-called "snake", is a simple, effective and versatile tool for unclogging sewer pipes. It allows you to avoid the use of aggressive chemicals. Both professional plumbers and sewer maintenance workers reach for the sewer spiral, as well as amateurs struggling with a clogged drain in a house, apartment or office. We explain how exactly the pipe spiral works and how to choose the best one for the planned work.
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When to use a pipe spiral?
Even the most well-maintained and occasionally used sewage system can become clogged after some time and require maintenance. The pipe cleaning spiral is reliable in removing blockages of various origins. It copes wherever other popular methods of unclogging pipes fail or cannot be used, e.g. due to an increased risk of damage to the system or a threat to the natural environment.
Popular chemical unclogging using a so-called "mole" works well for removing relatively shallow, organic blockages (hair, food scraps, cosmetic residues, oils). However, plumbers and manufacturers of components for sewage systems increasingly prohibit the use of such aggressive chemicals for unclogging pipes.
Sewer spirals are also used in situations where pressure cleaning (WUKO) has not managed to remove a very dense blockage or could not be carried out due to the risk of leaks in the installation. Sewer spirals can be regularly used in the most difficult conditions. They cope well with all types of contamination - not only with organic blockages. With the help of a properly selected sewer spiral, you can successfully remove, for example, remnants of building materials from the pipes.
How to effectively use a pipe spiral to unclog your sewage system?
The market offers sewer spirals that are standalone, simple hand tools, as well as versions that act as accessories for electric pipe cleaners. An electric pipe cleaner is a device equipped with a powerful motor that ensures effective operation even when encountering the most difficult obstacles to remove.
It is used, for example, in commercial and public utility buildings. Regardless of the tool chosen, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. The traditional manual sewage spiral has a characteristic, sharp tip that effectively crushes, shreds or loosens the blockage in the pipe. After breaking off the plug, the patency usually returns - at first partially, and after repeating the action several times, full. The included crank for turning makes it easier to use. The manual spiral is most conveniently worked with by two people. One inserts the sharp end into the sewage system, and the other turns the crank.
What parameters should you pay attention to when choosing a pipe spiral?
Pipe unblocking springs differ in length, width and material, among other things. The size should be adjusted to the depth at which the blockage is located and the diameter of the pipes being pushed through. Coating with a protective layer, e.g. chrome, protects the spring from corrosion. In the case of manual toilet unblockers, it is worth paying attention to whether the elbow is made of plastic to avoid damaging the ceramics. When choosing springs for an electric pipe unblocker, it is best to choose products from the same manufacturer to be sure of their full compatibility.
We encourage plumbing installers, sewage maintenance technicians and owners of installation shops to familiarize themselves with the offer of our installation wholesaler . Our assortment includes pipe cleaning spirals in dozens of variants, from leading manufacturers of solutions for sanitary systems. Our main supplier is ROTHENBERGER - a manufacturer of the highest quality installation tools, highly trusted by professional installers. In case of questions or problems with the selection, Onninen technical and sales advisors provide telephone, e-mail and personal support in stationary branches (only for b2b customers).
Check out the pipe cleaning spirals at the Onninen wholesaler