Plumbers spend more time than they might like to admit clearing drains. Luckily, there are a variety of drain-cleaning tools that can make plumbers’ jobs easier. Here’s a look at five of the newest products to hit the market. Visit www.pmmag.com and click on the “products” tab to view more new products.
Name of drain-cleaning tool: JM-1000 Mini-Jet
Released: 2016
Price tag: $995
Applications: This tool is designed for clearing grease clogs as well as sand and ice from 1.5- to 3-inch lines up to 50 feet long.
How it works: The JM-1000 Mini-Jet uses high-pressure water (1,500 psi) to cut through grease clogs — always a difficult clog for cable machines — to flush the line clean. The hose vibrates to help it slide around tight bends and go farther down the line.
How it’s unique: The JM-1000 is the lightest water jet on the market. It weighs just 23 pounds and is protected by a diamond plate carrying case. It costs less than $1,000, yet produces 1,500 psi of cleaning power.
Warranty/service/repair options: One-year warranty
Where plumbers can buy it: The JM-1000 is available at most plumbing supply houses.
Website for more info: www.drainbrain.com/JM1000
Name of drain-cleaning tool: M18 FUEL SWITCH PACK Sectional Drum System
Released: Nov. 1, 2017
Price tag: Kits ranging from $750 to $1,400
Applications: Sink lines, secondary/branch drain lines and main lines
How it works: The modular design of the M18 FUEL SWITCH PACK utilizes backpack straps for the easiest transport to any roof, drain, crawl space, or cleanout. The tool-free drum connection allows users to quickly interchange between cable sizes, or add a second drum to reach a length of 100 feet. SWITCH PACK drums are fully enclosed to provide the best protection and containment of the mess.
How it’s unique: The M18 FUEL SWITCH PACK Sectional Drum System is the first drain cleaning solution that combines the benefits of sectional and drum machines to create the single most versatile and mobile machine on the market. This new-to-world solution is easily transportable via an integrated backpack design, allows users to interchange and connect drums, and provides maximum power to clear 100 feet down the line.
Warranty/service/repair options: Manufacturer did not specify.
Where plumbers can buy it: Users are encouraged to start by going to www.milwaukeetool.com and then searching for the tool. On the tool page, they can find a distributor with stock near them.
Website for more info: www.milwaukeetool.com
Name of drain-cleaning tool: PowerClear
Date tool was released: March 2017
Price tag: $169
Applications: The RIDGID PowerClear is designed with both professional plumbers and homeowners in mind. The compact and versatile machine eliminates blockages and clogs in tub, sink and shower lines ¾ inches to 1-½ inches in diameter. And it does so without the mess.
How it works: Weighing only 12 pounds, PowerClear is lightweight and easy to handle while still being powerful enough to clear tough blockages. Its 120 V motor feeds cable at a rate of 18 feet per minute to a maximum of 25 feet — for quick results.
How it’s unique: The RIDGID PowerClear features a clear cover that allows users to view how much cable is remaining in the drum. With AUTOFEED trigger technology and an easy-pull drain plug, the PowerClear can eliminate blockages while keeping users’ hands and work areas clean.
Warranty/service/repair options: Like most RIDGID equipment, the PowerClear comes with a full lifetime warranty against material defects and manufacturing. Should a cable become damaged through usage, replacement cables are available.
Where plumbers can buy it: The RIDGID PowerClear is available at The Home Depot.
Website for more info: www.ridgid.com/us/en/powerclear
Name of drain-cleaning tool: Electric Eel Model CT Drain Cleaner
Date tool was released: Manufacturer did not specify.
Price tag: Manufacturer did not specify.
Applications: Cleans ¾-inch to 2-1/2-inch diameter drain lines up to 50 feet. The 1/5-hp, 90 V DC motor provides quiet, powerful and dependable operation.
How it works: The Model CT countertop drain cleaner features a variable speed motor control that gives the operator maximum cable control and exceptional cleaning power from 75-350 rpm with constant torque.
How it’s unique: Manufacturer did not specify.
Warranty/service/repair options: Manufacturer did not specify.
Where plumbers can buy it: Manufacturer did not specify.
Website for more info: www.electriceel.com
Name of drain-cleaning tool: 20V MAX* XR Brushless Drain Snake
Date tool was released: Fall 2017
Price tag: MSRP $399 (kit) or $299 (tool only)
Applications: Compatible with replacement cables from a variety of manufacturers, the versatile 20V MAX* XR Brushless Drain Snake accepts ¼-inch and 5/16-inch cables up to 50 feet long, and 3/8-inch cables up to 35 feet long with an assortment of different ends for various applications (sold separately).
How it works: The Drain Snake has a partially sealed inner drum that makes it easy to remove and change out cables. It also helps retain the water and material that it collects, preventing the spread of debris around the work area.
How it’s unique: A fixed outer housing is separate from the inner drum. This helps prevent a spinning drum from coming in contact with other surfaces such as the user or a finished vanity.
Warranty/service/repair options: Three-year limited warranty, one-year free service contract, and 90-day money-back guarantee.
Where plumbers can buy it: Visit www.dewalt.com and search for DCD200D1
Website for more info: www.dewalt.com
