A drain cleaner, also known as drain opener, refers to a person, device, or product used to unblock sewer pipes or clear clogged wastewater drains. This term typically applies to chemical, enzymatic, or mechanical tools such as commercial chemical cleaners, plumber’s snakes, drain augers, bio-enzyme solutions, or toilet plungers. In some contexts, it may also refer to a plumber or professional who specializes in drain cleaning and maintenance.
Chemical drain cleaners, plungers, handheld drain augers, and air burst drain cleaners are typically used to address clogs in single drain, such as sinks, toilets, tubs, or shower drains. These tools are effective at removing soft obstructions like hair and grease that accumulate near the drain inlet. However, excessive use of chemical drain cleaners can lead to pipe damage. In contrast, enzymatic drain cleaners rely on natural enzymes to break down organic matter such as grease, hair, and food particles, offering a more environmentally friendly solution that avoids harsh chemicals.
If more than one plumbing fixture is clogged then electric drain cleaners, battery powered drain cleaners, sewer jetters or such mechanical devices are usually required to clear obstructions along the entire length of the drain piping system, that is, from fixture drain inlets through the main building drains and lateral piping outside the building to the collector sewer mains.
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