Hydro Jetting vs Snaking: Choosing the Right Drain Solution

Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting, also known as high-pressure water blasting, is an innovative method that uses pressurized water to break down and clear buildup. A professional plumber in Los Angeles conducts a camera inspection to locate the blockage and assess the extent of the damage. This initial inspection is crucial to determine the integrity of your system, as high-pressure cleaning may not be suitable for old or compromised pipes.

Once the technician gives you a green light, a hydro jetting machine attached to a high-pressure hose is used to blast water down the affected drain. The pressure is adjusted to enhance effectiveness without causing further damage and costly repairs. Hydro jetting can clear any type of clog, from grease and food waste to tree roots and sediments, restoring flow efficiently and safely.

Snaking

Snaking, also known as a drain auger, is a flexible cable with a hooked or coiled end that can be mechanically or manually fed into the drain. Unlike hydro jetting, snaking can be a DIY project if you prefer a more hands-on approach. However, hiring a licensed plumber guarantees quality and ensures the job is done correctly the first time.

The auger or snake can seamlessly move inside the pipes until it meets resistance, which could be a bend or a clog. Rotating the tool breaks apart or hooks onto the obstruction, allowing you to pull the clog out or push it further to dislodge it. If you conduct a DIY drain cleaning project and the problem persists, call a reputable plumbing service to fix the problem.

Choosing Between Hydro Jetting & Snaking: Factors to Consider

Now that you know about hydro jetting and snaking, you can make informed decisions when dealing with clogged drains. Let’s explore some of the crucial factors to consider when choosing the best drain cleaning method for your home.

Type and Severity of Clog

Both methods work better for specific types of clogs. Drain snaking removes soft clogs and physically extracts or breaks up blockages composed of hair and soap scum, food particles, and human waste. On the other hand, hydro jetting removes a wide range of clogs, including tree roots, sludge, heavy grease buildup, and mineral deposits. This makes high-pressure cleaning effective for residential and commercial plumbing issues.

Pipe Material and Age

While drain cleaning may seem straightforward, using the wrong cleaner or method can cause significant damage to your plumbing system. Older or fragile pipes can’t handle the high-pressure water used in hydro jetting, which makes snaking the best option to prevent damage. However, modern PVC pipes can withstand the high pressure, as well as the scraping from snaking.

Cost and Effort

If you prefer a DIY approach, snaking offers a cost-effective solution to drain cleaning. You can purchase a drain auger at the local store and use it to clear buildup in the future. While hiring a professional hydro jetting service is more expensive upfront, it provides a more thorough and long-lasting solution. This protects you from recurring blockages and costly repairs.

Contact Express Plumbing & Rooter to book an appointment with our experts and select the most appropriate and safe method to restore water flow. If DIY efforts fail, you can count on us for professional assistance.