Dealing with a clogged drain? You’re not alone. Whether it’s hair, grease, or food buildup, blockages are a common plumbing headache. When it comes to clearing your drains, two popular methods stand out: drain snaking and hydrojetting.
But is one better than the other? Let’s break it down so you can make the right choice for your plumbing needs.
What Is Drain Snaking?
Drain snaking, also known as augering, is one of the oldest and most commonly used methods for clearing drain clogs. A plumber’s snake is a long, flexible metal cable with a corkscrew-like tip. The tool is inserted into the drain and rotated to break apart blockages or hook onto debris so it can be pulled out.
Pros of Drain Snaking
- Great for minor clogs like hair, soap buildup, and food debris.
- Works well for older pipes that may not handle high water pressure.
- A quicker and more affordable option for simple blockages.
Cons of Drain Snaking
- Doesn’t fully clean pipe walls, meaning residue is left behind.
- It can push clogs deeper instead of completely removing them.
- It may not be effective against grease buildup, tree roots, or severe blockages.
What Is Hydrojetting?
Hydrojetting is a more advanced method that uses high-pressure water (up to 8,000 PSI) to clear and clean pipes. A hose with a specialized nozzle sprays powerful jets of water in multiple directions, flushing out grease, mineral buildup, and even tree roots.
Pros of Hydrojetting
- Provides a deep, thorough clean by blasting away all buildup.
- Prevents future clogs by removing all residue from pipe walls.
- Safe for the environment, no harsh chemicals are involved.
- Works on both residential and commercial plumbing systems.
Cons of Hydrojetting
- More expensive than drain snaking.
- Requires a professional inspection before use, as older pipes may not withstand the pressure.
- Not a DIY solution—must be performed by a licensed plumber.
Which One Should You Choose?
It depends on your clog. For minor blockages, a drain snake can do the trick. But if you’re dealing with stubborn grease, heavy sludge, or recurring clogs, hydrojetting is the superior choice. Hydrojetting not only clears the blockage but also keeps your pipes cleaner for longer.
If you’re unsure which method is right for your home, the experts at HELP Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, and Drains are here to help! Call us today for professional drain-cleaning services that keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.
