Wisconsin Plumbing Pro’s Drain Cleaning Equipment Includes Operational 50-Year-Old Machine From General Pipe Cleaners!

About the Role

Schmitz Plumbing Heating & Electric, a well-established company in Potosi, Wisconsin, is known for its plumbing and drain cleaning excellence. The company utilizes both vintage and modern equipment to handle a variety of drain cleaning tasks, primarily focusing on residential services.

Equipment and Tools

• 1968 General Sewermatic Drain Cleaning Machine: Over 50 years old and still in active service, used for clearing clogs from long runs up to 200'.
• Model DRZ-PH Power Drain Cleaner: A modern, lightweight machine (30 lbs.) ideal for unclogging 1-1/4” to 3” lines in kitchens, laundries, and bathrooms. Features include:
  • Variable speed power cable feed (up to 16’ per minute).
  • Self-feed mechanism (forward and back).
  • 4’ guide tube to keep hands and jobsites clean.
  • Operates horizontally or vertically for versatility in confined spaces.
  • Silent motor and pneumatic foot pedal for hands-free operation.
• Super-Vee® Small-Line Drain Clearer: 20-year-old machine also from General Pipe Cleaners, used for smaller drain cleaning tasks.

Operational Details

• 90-95% of jobs are residential, with a focus on kitchens, laundries, and bathrooms.
• The Model DRZ-PH is compact and maneuverable, suitable for tight or restricted areas.
• Flexicore® drain cables are used for their strength and flexibility, available in 1/4”, 5/16”, and 3/8” diameters. The quick-change cartridge system allows for easy switching between cable sizes.

Maintenance Practices

• Daily cleaning of cables and drums using Snake Oil Classic™, a specialized lubricant with rust inhibitors.
• Snake Oil Classic™ preserves equipment by cutting through moisture and providing a rust-resistant coating, extending the life of cables, drums, and machine bearings.
• Excess lubricant is drained off, and cables are allowed to air-dry after treatment.

Company Background

Founded in 1979 by Bob Schmitz after several years working for a local plumber, Schmitz Plumbing Heating & Electric is now owned by his son, Chad. The company is recognized for its commitment to quality and reliability in plumbing and drain cleaning services.