Plumbers say this ‘brilliant’ £20 tool will save you a fortune on call outs

Blocked drains in basins, toilets, and other parts of the plumbing system can be a serious problem, potentially leading to overflow, water damage, and even sewage backups. But, how many times have you called out a plumber only for them to deal with the issues in less than a couple of minutes? If only you had the right tools….

Slide into view the faithful drill snake. It is as cunning, bendy and flexible as any serpent. However, this is definitely one snake you do want in your bathroom, and it is available from Robert Dyas for just £19.99.

That’s considerably cheaper than your average plumber call out charge. For a standard unblocking service, expect to pay between £60 and £85 (for rodding) according to Checkatrade. Emergency or after-hours call-outs can cost significantly more, potentially reaching £180. 

There are plenty of “snakes” on the market starting for as little as £9.99 on Amazon, but they tend to be best for unclogging hair in baths and basins close to the plug. 

But there are times when you need something a little more powerful. Think python rather than corn snake!

This particular labour saving drill auger (snake) could pay for itself after just one plumber call out. And at 15ft long (4.6 metres) it can reach the trickiest of out of the way places.

One plumber, Alan, reviewed the product saying: “I’ve been plumbing for over 30 years and this is the best and easiest to use spring I have ever used. Remove trap under sink and feed in with an assistant using the power drill and it turns round bends and clears the blockage. Brilliant.”

Another reviewer said: “Easy to use, drill in one hand other hand guiding into drain. Bounce it off obstructions, pull out and remove debris, repeat.”

It is designed for use on any variable speed electric or battery drill which is capable of holding a 1/4in hex shank. The snake is easy to use and will remove most types of blockages from household pipes and drains up to 50mm (2in) in diameter. It is ideal for clearing basins, sinks, baths and waste pipes when plungers and chemicals fail to work.

It can be used on any variable speed of an electric or battery drill. It has a Flexible steel auger cable and built-in, automatic clutch.

A spokesperson for Faithfull Tools said: “No chemicals are required to help remove the blockage, making this a safe and environmentally friendly product.

www.robertdyas.co.uk/faithfull-drill-snake or