When you’re brushing your teeth, doing the dishes, flushing the toilet – is there anything more frustrating than blocked drains? Well, the first step to solving this infuriating and life-disturbing problem is finding the right drain cleaning tools. But with so much information out there, how do you know which tool to reach for?
Without further ado, we present the ultimate Battle Of The Tools – from the simplest DIY unblocking methods to professional-grade equipment, we’ve taken the time to rank the most popular drain clearing tools in order of simplicity and effectiveness. So let’s dive in – and find out which ones truly get the job done.
Why drain blockages happen
So – what’s the best unblock drain tool? Hold up there, because before we jump straight into the ultimate tools, it’s worth understanding why drains get blocked in the first place! Consider everyday activities like:
- Washing dishes
- Showering
- Flushing the toilet.
We all do it, right? Well, they all introduce grease, hair, food particles, and debris into your plumbing system. Over time, these materials build up, causing blockages that can range from minor inconveniences to major plumbing headaches.
When a blockage strikes, having the right drain unblocking tool on hand can make all the difference. But not all tools are created equal! Some are great for a quick fix for a light clog – while others are designed to tackle extremely serious obstructions.
Our ultimate ranking of drain cleaning tools
10. Chemical drain cleaners
Chemical solutions are often marketed as quick fixes for slow drains. While they can dissolve grease and organic matter, they aren’t always the safest or most eco-friendly option. Overuse can damage pipes, and they’re not effective against non-organic blockages.
It’s best for: Grease and soap buildup in pipes.
Star rating out of 10: 2 Stars
9. Plunger (Sink or toilet)
The humble plunger is the first line of defense for many homeowners. Designed to create suction and pressure, plungers can often dislodge minor blockages in toilets, sinks, and shower drains. While it’s an effective sink unblocker tool for small blockages, it’s not ideal for more stubborn debris.
It’s best for: Slow draining sinks and toilets.
Star rating out of 10: 3 Stars
8. Drain snake (Manual auger)
A manual drain snake, or auger, is a simple yet effective drain cleaner tool. By inserting the snake into the drain and twisting, you can snag and remove clogs caused by hair or small debris. It’s a reliable tool to unblock drain but has limitations with deeper or tougher blockages.
It’s best for: Hair in sinks and shower drains.
Star rating out of 10: 3.5 Stars
7. Handheld drain unblocking tools
Small, inexpensive tools like barbed drain sticks are great for clearing hair from bathroom sinks and shower drains. They’re easy to use but limited in their scope, making them more of a temporary solution.
It’s best for: Clearing matter near the drain surface.
Star rating out of 10: 4 Stars
6. Wet/dry vacuum
A wet/dry vacuum can be used as a creative DIY drain unblocking tool. By switching to the blower setting and creating a tight seal over the drain, you can dislodge blockages. While this isn’t a conventional drain clearing tool, it’s surprisingly effective for certain drain blockages.
It’s best for: Light to moderate clogs in sinks or bathtubs.
Star rating out of 10: 4.5 Stars
5. Drain bladder
A drain bladder attaches to a garden hose and expands inside the pipe, using water pressure to push out clogs. It’s an efficient pipe unblocker tool for larger blockages but requires careful handling to avoid damaging older pipes.
It’s best for: Outdoor drains and large pipes.
Star rating out of 10: 5 Stars
4. Electric drain snake
Taking the manual auger to the next level, an electric drain snake is a powerful drain cleaning tool that can tackle stubborn drain blockages deep within pipes – taking things to the next level. It’s commonly used by professionals but can also be rented for DIY projects.
It’s best for: Tough clogs in deeper pipes.
Star rating out of 10: 7 Stars
3. High-pressure water jetters
Water jetting involves blasting high-pressure water through pipes to clear out blockages and clean the pipe walls. It’s one of the most effective pipe cleaning tools for both residential and commercial plumbing systems, but it requires professional equipment and expertise.
It’s best for: Serious blocked drains and routine maintenance.
Star rating out of 10: 9 Stars
2. CCTV drain cameras
While not a traditional drain cleaner tool, a CCTV drain camera is invaluable for diagnosing the cause and location of a blockage. By identifying the problem accurately, plumbers can select the best tool to unblock drain effectively.
It’s best for: Diagnosing complex drainage issues.
Star rating out of 10: 9 Stars
1. Professional hydro-jetters
At the top of the list are professional hydro-jetters, which combine high-pressure water and precision to remove even the toughest blockages. This is the ultimate drain unblocker tool, capable of handling grease, roots, and debris with ease. However, it’s not a DIY solution – it requires a trained and licensed blocked drain plumber to operate.
It’s best for: Severe blockages and complete pipe cleaning.
Star rating out of 10: 9.5 Stars
Why you should call a professional
Why no 10-star solutions? Well, that’s because while some blocked drains can be cleared with a simple toilet unblocker tool or plunger, or something a lot more serious than that, others definitely require professional expertise. Here’s why calling a plumber is often the smartest 10-Star choice:
- Safety: Certain tools to unblock drains, such as hydro-jetters, require specialised training to avoid damaging pipes or causing injury.
- Precision: Professionals use advanced tools like CCTV cameras to pinpoint blockages, ensuring the most effective solution.
- Efficiency: Plumbers can clear blocked drains quickly and thoroughly, saving you time and effort.
- Long-term results: Professional-grade drain unblocking tools not only clear blockages but also clean pipes, preventing future issues.
Need help clearing a blocked drain?
If you’re dealing with a stubborn blockage, don’t waste time experimenting with DIY solutions and hit-and-miss results. Here at S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting, we only use state-of-the-art drain unblocking tools and professional expertise to get your plumbing back in top shape – quickly, compliantly, and affordably. Whether it’s a blocked sink, blocked toilet, or blocked outdoor drain, we’ve always got you covered.
Need fast, reliable service with guaranteed workmanship across Alderley, Kenmore Hills, Newfarm, Jamboree Heights, Kuraby, Wynnum, or anywhere in Brisbane? Let our friendly team at S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting take care of the hard work of your plumbing problem – so you can get back to the things that really matter to you.