Clogged drains are something we all deal with at some point, yet not everyone knows how to deal with them. From slow drains in the kitchen sink to fully backed-up shower stalls, these everyday plumbing nuisances can bring your entire household to a halt. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or someone who prefers to call in the pros, understanding the right tools for the job is key.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through 7 essential tools used by professionals to clean drain blockages—without the harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes. By the end, you’ll know what each tool does and when it’s best to call in a professional.

1. Drain Snakes and Augers

Drain snakes—also called augers—are a plumber’s first line of defence against clogged pipes. These long, flexible cables are designed to reach deep into your plumbing and physically break apart clogs.

• Manual augers are ideal for bathtubs, toilets and shower drains.
  
• Motor-driven augers are used for bigger jobs, like clogged sewer lines.
  

With the right technique, these tools pull out hair, food scraps, grease, and more. If your drain is sluggish but not completely blocked, a manual auger might be enough. For tough, deep-set clogs, the electric version is the tool of choice.

2. CO2 Drain Gun

When hot water and basic pressure are not adequate, specialists use a CO2 drain cannon. This tool uses compressed carbon dioxide to blast away clogs. The rapid release of gas creates high pressure in your pipes, pushing debris down the line.

This method is especially effective on stubborn, fully blocked drains where typical water pressure just doesn’t cut it. It’s safe for your pipes and faster than traditional plungers or chemical drain openers.

3. Hydro-Jetters (Water Jetters)

Think of a hydro-jetter as a power washer for your plumbing system. It uses high-pressure water to scour the interior walls of your pipes, removing years of grease, sludge, soap scum, and even small tree roots.

Plumbers insert a hose into your drain and unleash pressurized water—sometimes at over 2,000 PSI—to flush everything out. It’s one of the most thorough ways to clean drains and is usually reserved for professional use due to the power involved.

4. Air Gun Drain Cleaners

An air gun, resembling a CO2 gun, applies compressed air rather than gas to remove obstructions. The key advantage here is control—many air guns come with adjustable pressure settings. That means professionals may adjust the force based on the pipe’s dimension and obstruction intensity.

This tool is ideal when you want something more powerful than baking soda and vinegar, but not as aggressive as a hydro-jetter. It’s also a great option for older plumbing systems that might not withstand ultra-high water pressure.

5. Sewer Flush Bag (Drain Bladder)

Sometimes, blockages need brute force. A strong rubber balloon that is attached to a lawn hose serves as a waste flush bag. After inserting the bag into the blocked pipe, plumbers switch on the water. The bag stretches and closes the pipe as it fills. It shoots water ahead to remove the obstruction whenever it reaches a specific pressure.

This tool is especially helpful when previous methods like snaking haven’t fully cleared the blockage. It’s commonly used for drains in sinks, bathtubs, and washing machines.

6. Video Inspection Tools

Before diving into cleaning, many pros first use video inspection tools to identify exactly what’s causing the clog. With the help of small, high-definition cameras on adaptable wires, plumbers can look far into your pipes.

These tools help avoid guesswork and determine the most effective treatment—saving time and preventing damage. They’re also used after cleaning to ensure the blockage is completely gone.

Final Thoughts

From natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar to industrial-grade tools like hydro-jetters and augers, there are many ways to handle a clogged drain. Part of of the struggle is figuring out which tool to use and when. It is not always possible to solve clogs on your own, though. Perhaps the best alternative is to hire the experts.

If you’re looking for professional drain cleaning in Victoria BC, expert help is just a call away. Persistent clogs, gurgling sounds, or recurring backups are all signs that your plumbing needs attention. And it’s always better to fix it early than risk expensive pipe repairs later.

When you need skilled professionals who know how to handle even the toughest clogs, The Clear Choice Plumbing delivers top-tier service with reliable results. Whether it’s a minor blockage or a major backup, they have the tools, experience, and commitment to get your drains flowing smoothly again. Say goodbye to clogs, and hello to hassle-free drains.