Mechanical Augers

Mechanical Augers | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Corryton

When a stubborn clog slows life down in Corryton, HEP’s licensed plumbers arrive with powerful mechanical augers that slice through grease, roots, and buildup in minutes. Our precision equipment is designed for safe, efficient drain opening, restoring full flow without the mess of harsh chemicals or invasive digging. From kitchen sinks to main sewer lines, we diagnose, clear, and verify every pipe so you can get back to cooking, showering, and living worry-free.

Customers choose HEP because we pair hometown courtesy with 24/7 emergency response. You’ll receive upfront pricing, photo-confirmed results, and a workmanship guarantee backed by decades of East Tennessee experience. Call today and discover why Corryton residents trust HEP’s mechanical augers to keep water moving and homes protected.

FAQs

What is a mechanical auger and how does it clear drains?

A mechanical auger—often called a plumber’s snake or drain snake—is a flexible, coiled steel cable with a cutting or boring tip. When we feed the auger into your clogged drain, the cable navigates bends and reaches the obstruction. By rotating the auger, our technician either drills through the blockage, breaks it apart, or hooks it for removal, restoring full water flow without the use of harsh chemicals.

When should I call a professional instead of using store-bought drain cleaners?

Store-bought chemicals may temporarily open a slow drain, but they can’t remove major obstructions like tree roots, grease buildup, or foreign objects. Call us if you notice repeated backups, standing water that won’t drain, gurgling noises, or foul odors. Professional mechanical augering addresses the root cause safely and protects your pipes from the corrosive damage many chemical cleaners cause.

Can an auger damage my pipes?

When handled by trained professionals, mechanical augers are safe for most residential and commercial piping materials, including PVC, copper, and cast iron. We use the correct cable diameter and tip for each pipe size, and we control the speed and pressure to avoid scraping or puncturing the line. DIY augering without proper tools or technique, however, can kink the cable or crack older pipes, so it’s best left to experts.

How long does a typical drain opening service take in Corryton?

For a single interior drain, most appointments last 30–60 minutes from arrival to cleanup. More complicated jobs—such as main sewer line obstructions or multiple clogged fixtures—can take 1–2 hours. We provide an on-site assessment and time estimate before beginning work, so you always know what to expect.

Will the auger solve recurring clogs or do I need additional services?

Mechanical augering removes the immediate blockage, which often resolves the problem for good. However, if your clogs come back frequently, it may indicate deeper issues like scale buildup, pipe misalignment, or invading roots. In those situations, we may recommend a camera inspection, hydro-jetting, or minor pipe repairs to prevent future backups.

What can I do to prevent future clogs after your auger service?

• Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down kitchen drains. • Use sink and tub strainers to catch hair, soap residue, and food scraps. • Run hot water for 30 seconds after each use to flush small debris. • Schedule annual preventive maintenance—such as an inspection or light auger service—especially for older Corryton homes with mature trees. Following these practices keeps your drains clear and extends the life of your plumbing system.