How Electric Eel Plumbing Machine Works and Why It’s Effective for Clearing Drains
When faced with a stubbornly clogged drain, homeowners and plumbers alike turn to powerful tools to get the job done. One of the most effective methods is electric eel plumbing machine, a drain-cleaning technique that has been used for decades. This tool, also known as a plumbing eel or drain eel, helps clear blockages in pipes quickly and efficiently.
Maintaining a functional drainage system is essential for preventing costly repairs and plumbing disasters. In this blog, we’ll explore what an electric eel is, how it works, and why it remains a popular choice for tackling blocked drains.
What Is an Electric Eel?
The term electric eel plumbing machine refers to the use of a motorized drain cleaning machine designed to remove blockages from pipes. Despite its name, this tool has nothing to do with the electric eel fish—it gets its name from the way it moves through drains, similar to how an eel slithers through water.
Components of a Plumbing Eel
A typical plumbing eel consists of a flexible, coiled metal cable powered by an electric motor. This cable rotates and drills through clogs, breaking up debris such as grease, hair, soap scum, and tree roots.
Electric Eel vs. Traditional Drain Cleaning Methods
While there are many ways to clear blocked drains, the electric eel drain cleaner offers several advantages:
- More effective than plungers: Unlike plungers, which rely on suction, electric eels physically cut through blockages.
- More powerful than chemical cleaners: Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh on pipes, whereas an electric eel mechanically removes obstructions.
- Faster than hydro-jetting in some cases: While hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to clean drains, an electric eel is better for solid blockages.
How Does the Electric Eel Work?
A plumber eel works by rotating a coiled metal cable inside a blocked pipe. The spinning action helps break apart obstructions, allowing water to flow freely again.
Efficient drain clearing performed by an Adelaide plumber using electric eel plumbing equipment.
Types of Electric Eels Used in Plumbing
- Drain Eel: A smaller, more portable electric eel used for household drains and sinks.
- Electric Eel Drain Cleaner: A heavy-duty version designed for larger pipes, including sewer lines.
Applications of Electric Eel Plumbing
The electric eel drain cleaner is commonly used to tackle a wide range of plumbing problems, including:
Common Plumbing Issues Solved by Electric Eels
- Clogged Drains and Pipes: Whether it’s hair in the bathroom drain or grease buildup in the kitchen sink, an electric eel efficiently removes these blockages.
- Tree Root Intrusions: Tree roots often invade underground pipes, leading to severe blockages. A plumber’s electric eel can cut through these roots to restore water flow.
Benefits of Using an Electric Eel
- Efficiency and Speed: The electric eel works quickly, removing tough clogs in minutes.
- Minimal Disruption: Unlike excavation or pipe replacement, electric eel plumbing is a non-invasive method that doesn’t require breaking walls or digging up yards.
Choosing the Right Electric Eel
When selecting a plumber’s electric eel, consider the following factors:
Key Considerations
- Size and Type of the Machine: Smaller models are suitable for household drains, while larger electric eels are better for commercial plumbing.
- Intended Use: Homeowners with occasional clogs may prefer a compact model, whereas professional plumbers need industrial-grade machines.
Safety Tips and Best Practices
Using an electric eel drain cleaner requires caution to avoid injury and pipe damage.
Essential Safety Precautions
- Wear protective gloves and goggles to prevent injury.
- Keep hands away from the rotating cable while in operation.
- Ensure the machine is on a stable surface to prevent accidents.
Maintenance and Care Tips
- Clean the cable after each use to prevent corrosion.
- Store the machine in a dry place to extend its lifespan.
- Regularly check for wear and tear to ensure optimal performance.
When it comes to clearing tough drain blockages, electric eel plumbing remains one of the most effective methods available. Whether dealing with household clogs or complex sewer line issues, an electric eel can restore water flow quickly and efficiently.
If you’re experiencing persistent drain problems, consider using an electric eel drain cleaner or hiring a professional plumber in Adelaide like Will’s Plumbing Adelaide to handle the job. You can contact us on 0484600095.
