Viemärirassi

Viemärirassi, often referred to as a drain snake or plumber's snake, is a common plumbing tool used to clear blockages in drains and pipes. It consists of a flexible coil or cable, typically made of metal, with a crank or handle at one end and a spiral or claw-like head at the other. The cable is inserted into the drainpipe and fed forward until it reaches the obstruction.

To use a viemärirassi, the user inserts the head of the tool into the drain opening and slowly turns the crank. This rotation causes the cable to twist and corkscrew its way through the pipe. As it encounters the blockage, the head can either break it apart into smaller pieces that can be flushed away or snag it, allowing the user to pull the obstruction out of the pipe.

Viemärirassit come in various lengths and thicknesses, suitable for different types of drains and the severity of the clog. Smaller, manual versions are common for household use in sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. Longer, more robust, and sometimes motorized versions are used by professional plumbers for more challenging blockages or in larger sewer lines. Proper use of a viemärirassi can effectively dislodge common obstructions like hair, grease, soap scum, and small foreign objects, preventing the need for more drastic measures like pipe replacement. It is important to operate the tool carefully to avoid damaging the pipes.