Drain Cleaning Machines

Drain machines spin a steel cable into a pipe to cut through clogs and roots. If the cable tip catches while the motor keeps turning, the cable can twist, loop and whip around your hand or arm, causing fractures, crushing injuries and amputations.

• Plumbers
• Maintenance

Types

• Drum machines: the cable is stored in a spinning drum. Good for sinks, tubs and small lines.
• Sectional machines: cable sections are connected and fed in as needed. Used for main lines and longer runs.
• Handheld drum augers: small lines; still can twist your wrist.
• Water jetters: high-pressure water; a separate set of hazards similar to pressure washers. See Pressure Washers.

Preventing cable injuries

• Use the foot switch so you can stop the motor instantly. Keep both hands on the cable.
• Keep the machine close to the drain opening (usually within a couple of feet) and use a guide tube, so there’s little exposed cable to loop.
• Don’t force the cable. If it stops turning or starts to twist, take your foot off the switch right away.
• Wear the gloves the maker recommends, often special drain-cleaning mitts. Loose cloth gloves can wrap onto the cable and pull your hand in.
• Run in forward unless freeing a stuck tool; reverse only as the manual allows.
• Use the right cable size for the pipe.

Before starting

• Ask whether chemical drain cleaner was used. If so, flush, wait or wear full face and skin protection, because the cable will splash it.
• Machine plugged into a GFCI-protected outlet; cord undamaged
• Cable not kinked, broken or badly worn
• Foot switch works
• Safety glasses or face shield, gloves, and clothing you can wash or throw away
• Drop cloths and buckets ready

After the job

• Clean and disinfect the cable as it comes out, and the machine before storage.
• Wash hands and change clothes before eating or driving home.

Last updated: October 2, 2026