When it comes to keeping your drains unclogged and your pipes clean, there are several options to choose from. Plumbers often use one of two solutions for clogs and pipe cleaning: plumbing snakes or hydro jetting. While plumbing snakes, or plumbing augers, are a more classic approach, hydro jetting offers an innovative solution for most pipe problems.
So what’s best for your situation? That depends on the problem! When a plunger just doesn’t cut it, you need something with a little more force to clear out a clog. That is when hydro jetting and snaking come into play. Each technique is useful for different types of clogs, so you want to make sure you have a qualified plumber handling your drain clog!
When Snaking Is Beneficial
Snaking a clogged drain is done with an auger, which looks like a long steel cable with a coil at the end of it. A plumber will insert the cable into the sewer line, using the coil at the end to break through any obstructions. This will clear up the gunk in your pipes and remove any clogs.
What are the main perks of this option?
- Tried and true method – You know it works and does a solid job on most clogs because plumbers have been using it for decades.
- Easy on the pipes – It is an undisruptive procedure for your pipes (but not the clogs), meaning if you have fragile pipes, this is a great option.
- Tackles minor clogs easily – When there is just a minor clog to tackle, snaking can easily get the job done and give you back your drain.
- Exposes plumbing dangers – Since a snake uses pressure to break through clogs, it can alert you to issues like tree roots in your pipes.
The bottom line is that cabling a pipeline with an auger is a proven method that can eliminate most basic clogs. However, there are downsides to this method as well. In most cases, snaking is just a temporary solution to pipe buildups, which means more clogs in the future. If you really want to eliminate the risk of clogs, you may want to go with a more powerful, innovative option.
When Hydro Jetting Is the Way to Go
Tough clogs and buildup don’t stand a chance against the high-pressure hose used in hydro jetting. Just like it sounds, a hose with a special nozzle will send a powerful force of pressurized water through your pipes, clearing out your clogged drain and anything in its way. A plumber will usually create a cleanout, or opening, to allow the clog and buildup to be cleared out from the pipe.
Some of the main benefits of hydro jetting include:
- Eliminates clogs in a flash – With high-pressure water shooting through your pipes, the clogs will be cleared out fast.
- Removes dangerous blocks – The power of the pressurized water can even clear out tree roots and other serious blocks when necessary.
- Versatile solutions for all types of pipes – No matter the type of pipes you have, hydro jetting can get the job done and get it done effectively.
- Clears out pipe walls – Hydro jetting gets to the root of the problem: grease and pipe wall buildup. It can eliminate minerals, grease, and more!
While hydro jetting is a great option in most cases, it can pack a powerful force. If you have older, more fragile pipes, the water pressure could cause damage in some areas. That is why it is always best to have a professional plumber on the job. They can scope out the state of your pipes and take down the pressure to prevent damage or other issues. If your pipes are too fragile, they can switch over to the good old fashion snaking method for optimal results.
Think you may have a clogged drain or buildup in your pipes that needs taking care of? Call our experts from bluefrog Plumbing + Drain!
