The selection of the attachment for a sewer snake is also important. The choice of attachments for a sewer drain snake is generally limited to:
-
- cutting blade
- grease bulb
- hook
- drophead
If the technician is confident that a full-size blade can be passed through the pipe on the first attempt, a blade the same size of the pipe may be selected. Discretion, however, usually dictates the use of a smaller size blade to open the pipe and get water flowing, then insert a full-size blade to clean the pipe down to the sides.
Cutting Blade Guide
There are numerous choices for cutting blades that are affixed to a snake cable end, and each major type is listed below with its typical application.
IMAGE | BLADE TYPE | PURPOSE |
|
Serrated Blade |
Rip through obstructions |
|
Knife Edged Blade |
Cut through blockages |
|
Half Blade |
Look similar to double edged pear blades but have only one side, used as a preliminary drain opener |
|
Tri-Blade |
Designed to be used 1, 2, or 3 at a time; when a majority of roots have been removed, a second and third blade can be added to the blade holder |
|
P-Trap Blade |
C-shaped blade that closely resembles the shape of the pipe, to make it easier to pass through a trap or execute a bend |
|
Saw Blade |
Completely circular shaped blade, with serrated edges on both sides and designed to rip out roots |
|
Grease Blade |
3" or 4" blade with "paddles" that act as a scoop and cause a churning action within the line for cleaning grease |
|
Spear Blade |
Used for penetrating stoppages in 3" to 6" sewer lines; this tool should be used first to open lines for water drainage before introducing a cutting blade |
|
Boring Tool |
Used to penetrate firm, hard stoppages in larger pipe to open lines for water drainage |
|
Retriever |
Resembles a large cone and is used to extract rags, towels, and broken cable from 3" to 10" lines |
|
Cable Uncoupling Stand |
A small stand that supports the cable in place while removing the expansion pin to uncouple cable |
|
"T" Wrench |
Ideal tool for fastening cutters to cables |