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What drain auger sizes are available?

What drain auger sizes are available?

Shop for Drain Augers and Gully Grabs

diameter There are five main diameters for drain snakes, these are: 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″, 1/2″ and 9/16″. Each size has a recommended range of drain pipe diameters they are suitable for.

An easy way to classify and remember these is to separate them into small, medium, large and extra-large categories.

What pipe sizes can they be used with?

small diameter drain augers

Small

The 1/4″ (6 mm) diameter drain snake is advised for pipes that are 1 1/4″ (31.75 mm) and 1 1/2″ (38.1 mm) in diameter.

This is the most common household drain snake and is used for sinks, baths, showers and some drains.

medium diameter drain auger

Medium

Both the 5/16″ (7.94 mm) and 3/8″ (9.53 mm) snakes are considered medium sized. They are most suitable for use in 2″ (50.8 mm) drain pipes.

A 3/8″ snake is usually found on toilet augers.

large diameter drain auger

Large

Large snakes have a diameter of 1/2″ (12.7 mm) and are recommended for 3″ (76.2 mm) (usually external) drain pipes.

extra large diameter drain auger

Extra-large

9/16″ (14.29 mm) diameter drain snakes are extra-large and designed for use on 4″ (101.6 mm) and 5″ (127 mm) drain pipes.

These are usually the sizes reserved for external drain pipes.

drain snake auger head It is important to use the correct size drain snake on the appropriate drain pipe because small snakes can become tangled in large drain pipes and large snakes can damage small pipes.
building regulations It is difficult to determine what diameter pipes you have, the best things to check are plumbing regulations and local building codes to give you the best idea. Also remember to take in to consideration when your property was built and if the pipes have ever been redone.

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