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When faced with a clogged drain or tangled up sewer line, there are a lot of tools that plumbers have at their disposal to tackle the problem. One such tool is the snake machine, which comes in both “open reel” and “closed drum” varieties.
At its core, a snake machine is a length of flexible cable that can be guided through pipes to either break up blockages or extract debris. The cable is powered by a motor which spins the cable while the operator feeds it into the affected pipe.
But what’s the difference between an open reel and a closed drum machine? Let’s break it down.
Open reel snake machines
As the name suggests, an open reel machine is built around an open-faced reel which holds the cable. The open design makes it easy to clean and maintain, and the operator can often see how much cable is left on the reel with a quick glance.
These machines are typically lighter and easier to move around than closed drum machines, making them a better option for jobs that require a lot of mobility. Additionally, open reel machines can be operated by just one person, making them a more affordable option for smaller plumbing shops.
One downside of open reel machines is that the cable can sometimes get tangled inside the reel, requiring the operator to manually remove the snarls before proceeding with the task at hand. However, most modern open reel machines have built-in tangle prevention features that reduce the risk of snarls occurring in the first place.
Closed drum snake machines
Closed drum machines, on the other hand, feature a drum that completely encases the cable. The drum can be either horizontal or vertical, and it functions to both contain the cable while it’s being used and also protect it when it’s not in use.
Because of the drum’s fully enclosed design, closed drum machines are less prone to tangles or snarls than open reel machines. Additionally, closed drum machines are typically more powerful than their open reel counterparts, meaning that they can tackle tougher blockages and larger sewers.
One downside of closed drum machines is that they can be more difficult to clean than open reel machines. Because the drum fully encases the cable, it’s hard to tell when the cable is completely clean, and improperly maintained drums can collect debris and harbor bacteria.
Which one is right for your plumbing business?
Deciding between an open reel and a closed drum snake machine comes down to a few factors. If your plumbing business primarily tackles smaller jobs or if you’re on a tight budget, an open reel machine might be the better option. However, if your business focuses mainly on large sewers or tough blockages, a closed drum machine is the way to go.
Ultimately, both types of machines have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your specific plumbing needs. Whatever you choose, though, make sure that you invest in a reliable, high-quality machine that can stand up to the rigors of daily use.
Conclusion
No matter which type of snake machine you choose, you’ll be getting a powerful tool that can help you tackle even the toughest plumbing challenges. However, it’s important to remember that proper maintenance and use is key to getting the most out of your investment. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions and best practices, and don’t be afraid to reach out to a fellow plumbing professional or mentor if you need guidance.
At Ace Plumbing Repair, our team of certified plumbers has years of experience using both open reel and closed drum snake machines to keep pipes flowing smoothly. If you’re in the market for plumbing services or need help with a clogged drain, give us a call at (844) 711-1590 or visit our website at aceplumbingrepair.com to learn more about how we can help.
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