When Should You Use an Electric Eel Drain Cleaning Machine?

When faced with a stubborn clog, an electric eel drain cleaning machine can be a real lifesaver. These machines, also known as motorised drain snakes, are designed to clear tough blockages that standard plungers or chemical cleaners can’t handle.

With a rotating cable that extends into pipes, the electric eel cuts through clogs caused by grease, hair, tree roots and other debris. But is it the right tool for your situation?

In this article, we’ll explore when to reach for an electric eel and when it might be time to call in a professional. Understanding when and how to use this powerful tool can save you time, money, and the hassle of recurring drain problems. Let’s get those drains flowing freely again.

Signs You Need an Electric Eel Drain Cleaner

Here are some common signs that it might be time to use an electric eel drain cleaning machine:

Persistent clogs: If you’ve been dealing with a clog that keeps coming back despite using plungers or chemical cleaners, an electric eel might be what you need. These machines can reach deep into your pipes to tackle blockages that simpler tools can’t handle.
Multiple slow drains: When several drains in your home are slow at once, it could indicate a blockage further down the line. An electric eel can navigate through your plumbing to address issues in the main sewer line or other hard-to-reach areas.
Unpleasant odours: Foul smells coming from your drains are often caused by trapped debris or build up. An electric eel can help clear out these blockages, eliminating the source of those unpleasant odours.
Gurgling sounds: If you hear gurgling or bubbling noises from your drains, it could mean there’s an obstruction in the pipes. An electric eel can remove the clog and restore normal flow, stopping those strange sounds.

These signs indicate that a more powerful solution, like an electric eel, might be necessary to get your drains back to normal.

A man uses an electric eel drain cleaning machine

When to Choose an Eel Over Chemical Drain Cleaners

When it comes to unclogging drains, many people reach for chemical drain cleaners first. They’re convenient and easy to use, but they aren’t always the best solution.

For particularly tough clogs, like those caused by tree roots or large debris, an electric eel drain cleaning machine is often the better choice. Unlike chemicals, which dissolve blockages over time, an electric eel uses a rotating cable to cut through stubborn clogs on the spot.

Another reason to opt for an electric eel is the potential damage chemical cleaners can cause to your pipes. Over time, harsh chemicals can erode pipes, especially if used repeatedly. This is especially risky in older homes with ageing plumbing systems.

A motorised drain snake, on the other hand, is effective without the risk of corrosion, making it ideal for recurring blockages that need a strong solution.

If you’ve tried chemical cleaners and your drain still isn’t flowing freely, it may be time to bring in an electric eel. It’s a powerful, eco-friendly option that tackles tough clogs without harming your plumbing.

The Types of Drains Suited for Electric Eels

Electric eel drain cleaning machines are versatile tools that can tackle a variety of drain blockages. They’re particularly effective for larger drains, such as those found in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor sewer lines.

If you have a persistent clog in your kitchen sink, for instance, an electric eel can reach deep into the pipes to break up food scraps, grease, and other debris that tend to accumulate over time.

Bathrooms also benefit from electric eel machines, especially when dealing with hair and soap build up in shower and tub drains. Even toilets with tough clogs can be cleared using an electric eel, as these machines are designed to handle solid obstructions that would be too challenging for a plunger or hand snake.

Electric eel machines are also perfect for outdoor drains, like those leading to your main sewer line. Tree roots are notorious for invading sewer pipes, causing major blockages. With its cutting capabilities, an electric eel can slice through roots and restore proper flow.

Overall, motorised drain snakes are ideal for handling tough clogs in larger drains where typical tools may fall short.

Situations Where Professional Help is Necessary

Here are some situations where it’s best to call in a professional to handle your drain issues with an electric eel drain cleaning machine:

Recurring blockages: If you’ve used an electric eel and the clog keeps coming back, it could mean there’s a bigger issue in your plumbing system. A professional can assess the situation and find the root cause, saving you from repeat blockages.
Large or complex clogs: When dealing with major clogs, such as those in the main sewer line or where tree roots are involved, it’s best to leave it to an expert. Professionals have specialised equipment (such as hydro jet drain machines) and techniques (in extreme cases, that includes drain excavation) to safely and effectively clear these tougher blockages.
Older or fragile pipes: If your home has older pipes, an electric eel can potentially cause damage if not used correctly. A professional can handle the equipment with precision, ensuring your pipes remain intact and functioning.
Sewer backups: If sewage is backing up into your home, it’s a serious issue that requires immediate professional attention. Trying to tackle this on your own can make matters worse and expose you to harmful bacteria.

In these situations, expert help is crucial for a safe and effective solution.

A couple discusses a blocked drain with a plumber

Safety Tips for Using an Electric Eel Machine

Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind when using an electric eel drain cleaning machine:

Wear protective gear: Always wear gloves, goggles and sturdy clothing to protect yourself from debris and splashes. The rotating cable can whip around unexpectedly, so safety gear is a must.
Keep hands and hair clear: Avoid loose clothing, jewellery and long hair near the machine. The electric eel’s cable rotates quickly and can easily catch on loose items, which can be dangerous.
Use a GFCI outlet: Since you’ll be working with water and electricity, plug the machine into a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet to reduce the risk of electric shock.
Be mindful of cable tension: Don’t force the cable through the pipe; let it move gradually. If you encounter resistance, pull back and try again to avoid damaging the machine or your pipes.
Turn off the machine before adjusting: If you need to reposition the cable or make adjustments, always turn off the machine first to prevent accidental injury.

Following these safety tips will help you use an electric eel drain cleaning machine effectively while minimising the risk of accidents or injuries.

A Handy Device … But Be Careful

An electric eel drain cleaning machine can be a powerful tool for tackling tough clogs in your home’s plumbing. It’s ideal for situations where regular plungers and chemical cleaners just don’t cut it, and it’s particularly effective for deep, stubborn blockages.

However, knowing when to use it − and when to call in a professional − can make all the difference. If you’re dealing with recurring issues, large sewer line clogs or fragile older pipes, professional help is often the safest bet.

For DIY enthusiasts, just remember to follow proper safety precautions and take it slow to avoid damaging your pipes. With the right approach, an electric eel can help keep your drains flowing freely and save you from future headaches.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.