If you’re a homeowner, then you know that clogged drains can be a nightmare. From slow-draining sinks to backed-up toilets, they can cause a lot of inconvenience and damage. Luckily, there are two common methods to clear clogged drains: hydro jetting and snaking. In this article, we’ll explore both methods and compare them to determine which is better.

What is Hydro Jetting?

Hydro jetting is a method of cleaning drains that involves using high-pressure water to blast away blockages and buildup. A hydro jet uses a special nozzle that sprays water at a high pressure, typically between 3,500 to 4,000 PSI. The water is powerful enough to cut through tree roots and other stubborn blockages, making it an effective method for clearing clogged drains.

How Does Hydro Jetting Work?

The hydro jet is inserted into the drain and pushed through the pipe. As the nozzle moves through the pipe, it sprays water in all directions, effectively cleaning the entire pipe. The water pressure is so strong that it not only removes clogs but also flushes away any debris or buildup that may be clinging to the inside of the pipe.

Benefits of Hydro Jetting

• It is effective in removing stubborn blockages, including tree roots and grease buildup.
• It cleans the entire pipe, reducing the risk of future clogs.
• It is environmentally friendly because it uses only water.
• It is safe for all types of pipes, including old and fragile pipes.

What is Snaking?

Snaking is another common method for clearing clogged drains. It involves using a long, flexible cable with a corkscrew-like tip called a “snake” to break apart clogs and pull them out of the drain.

How Does Snaking Work?

The snake is inserted into the drain and pushed through the pipe until it reaches the clog. Once it reaches the clog, the snake is twisted and turned to break apart the blockage. The debris is then pulled out of the drain using the snake.

Benefits of Snaking

• It is a simple and relatively inexpensive method for clearing clogs.
• It is effective for removing clogs that are close to the drain opening.
• It can be used to retrieve lost items, such as jewelry or toys, from the drain.

Hydro Jetting vs. Snaking: Which is Better?

Both hydro jetting and snaking have their advantages and disadvantages. The best method for clearing a clogged drain depends on the nature of the blockage and the condition of the pipes.

When to Use Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting is the best method for clearing clogs that are caused by:

• Grease buildup
• Tree roots
• Mineral buildup
• Scale buildup

Hydro jetting is also a good choice for pipes that have a lot of buildup or have not been cleaned in a long time.

When to Use Snaking

Snaking is the best method for clearing clogs that are caused by:

• Hair
• Soap scum
• Food debris
• Small objects

Snaking is also a good choice for pipes that are fragile or have a lot of bends and turns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both hydro jetting and snaking are effective methods for clearing clogged drains. Hydro jetting is more effective for stubborn blockages and for cleaning the entire pipe, while snaking is better for small blockages and fragile pipes. Ultimately, the best method depends on the nature of the clog and the condition of the pipes.