Clogged drains—ugh, it’s a problem every homeowner faces at one point or another. Whether it’s a slow drain that just won’t cooperate or a full-blown blockage that brings everything to a screeching halt, the question that often comes up is: “What’s better for my pipes—snaking or hydro jetting?”
Both methods are designed to tackle clogs, but each one has its strengths, weaknesses, and best-use scenarios. And if you’ve got older pipes, well, you’ll want to pay attention to which option might be safer for your system.
People have been using snaking as a tried-and-true method for ages. It works for simple clogs, but hydro jetting is the best drain cleaning method for most situations.
We’ll dig into both methods here and help you decide which one suits your plumbing system best. Let’s get your pipes flowing smoothly again.
Key Takeaways
- Snaking is an older method for clearing clogs that involves using a cable and rotating blades.
- Hydro jetting uses water pressure and is generally more effective at thoroughly cleaning pipes.
- Snaking works well for minor clogs but can leave debris behind.
- Hydro jetting is a better solution for heavy-duty clogs like grease buildup and tree roots.
- Hydro jetting can be too intense for older, fragile pipes.
- Consult a professional plumber to evaluate the condition of your pipes before choosing a method.
The Traditional Approach of Snaking Drains
Snaking is one of those methods that has stood the test of time. Invented back in 1933 by Samuel Blanc, this technique involves a long, flexible metal cable with an auger (or rotating blade) at the end.
The cable is inserted into the pipe, and as it twists its way through, the blade helps break up the clog. It’s like sending a small drill down your pipes to chew through whatever’s causing the blockage.
Types of Snakes
Snakes come in different sizes and shapes, and not every snake is right for every job. You’ve got your top snake, which is great for smaller drains like sinks or showers.
A toilet auger is specially designed for toilet clogs.
Then, there’s the mini-rooter, a bit more heavy-duty, often used for bigger drains or sewer lines.
But remember: using the wrong snake for the wrong job can cause more harm than good. Not only can you end up with a busted pipe, but you could also injure yourself. It’s not just about having the right tool, but knowing how to use it.
When NOT to Use a Snake
As great as snaking is for some clogs, there are times when it’s just not the right choice. For example, if you’re dealing with:
- Massive grease compaction that’s glued to the pipe walls.
- Root-infested drain lines—those stubborn tree roots don’t give up easily.
- Drains that need clearing from a rooftop (it’s just too tricky).
- Epoxy-lined drain lines (you risk damaging the coating).
- Old cast iron pipes with heavy buildup (snaking could scratch and weaken them).
When to Use a Snake
On the flip side, snaking works wonders for soft stoppages. We’re talking toilet paper, hair, and food clogs—those simple blockages that aren’t too deep or complex. For these, a snake can usually get the job done without any fuss.
Advantages of Snaking
- Effective for basic clogs like hair and small debris.
- Safer for older or more fragile plumbing systems that can’t handle the pressure of hydro jetting.
- Easier to control, which means less risk of over-stressing your pipes.
Disadvantages of Snaking
- Often only creates a small hole in the clog, which leaves debris behind and sets the stage for future clogs.
- The snake can scratch or damage the pipe’s coating, leading to cracks, rust, and potentially bigger issues down the road.
The Modern Approach of Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting is like the superhero of drain cleaning. This method uses a high-pressure hose to blast water through your pipes at pressures up to 35,000 psi. It doesn’t just poke a hole in the clog—it obliterates it and cleans the pipe walls in the process. Originally used in mining, hydro jetting has evolved to become a go-to solution for clearing stubborn clogs and even some of the toughest pipe blockages.
Types of Hydro-Jets
Hydro-jets vary in size and application. Larger hydro-jets with bigger nozzles are used for more significant problems like tree roots in the sewer line, while smaller hoses with smaller nozzles can tackle simpler blockages in smaller pipes.
When NOT to Use Hydro-Jetting
Just like snaking, hydro jetting isn’t perfect for every situation. You’ll want to avoid using it in:
- Clogged drain lines that don’t have a cleanout (you need somewhere to access the pipes).
- Simple soft clogs (a snake will do the trick without the extra power).
- Older cast iron pipes with massive buildup (hydro jetting might cause the pipe to collapse).
- Cleanouts in tough-to-reach areas, like crawl spaces, where hydro-jetting equipment might be hard to maneuver.
Advantages of Hydro Jetting
- Fully cleans pipes without leaving debris behind.
- Suitable for heavy-duty clogs like grease, tree roots, and limescale.
- May cost more upfront but reduces the need for repeat visits, saving money in the long run.
- Works for both residential and commercial plumbing systems.
- No chemicals—just water—so it’s safe for your home and the environment.
- Completely clears pipes, which reduces the chances of recurring blockages.
Disadvantages of Hydro Jetting
- The pressure might be too much for older, fragile pipes.
- A video inspection is necessary to make sure your pipes can handle the pressure.
- Hydro jetting should be done by professionals—this isn’t a DIY job.
How to Choose the Right Method
So, how do you decide between snaking and hydro jetting? It really depends on the severity of the clog and the condition of your pipes. For minor blockages, snaking might be all you need.
But if you’ve got bigger problems like grease, tree roots, or recurring clogs, hydro jetting is often the better choice. That said, older pipes may not be up for the high-pressure challenge of hydro jetting, so it’s best to get a professional’s opinion before making a decision.
When to Snake
If you’re dealing with minor clogs caused by things like hair, soap, or small debris, snaking will usually do the job. You might even try using a plunger first—if that doesn’t work, grab the snake.
When to Get Professional Hydro Jetting Services
Hydro jetting is the better choice for major clogs, especially those caused by grease, limescale, or tree roots. It’s also a good option if you’ve had repeat blockages in the same line. But don’t attempt hydro jetting without professional help—it’s a specialized job that requires the right equipment and know-how.
F.O.G. Creates Clogs
Now, let’s talk about one of the most common causes of clogs: F.O.G. (fat, oil, and grease). These nasty substances build up in your pipes, solidifying into hard masses that are almost impossible to remove with a simple snake. Fatbergs, anyone?
If you’ve ever poured grease down the drain, you’ve contributed to the problem. Add wet wipes, paper towels, and feminine products to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for disaster.
Hydro jetting is an excellent way to clean the sticky coating of fatbergs off your pipe walls, removing the buildup and reducing the chances of future clogs.
Mister Greenway Nashville, TN Provides Hydro Jetting Services
When you’re unsure about whether to snake or hydro jet, getting expert advice is the way to go. Mister Greenway in Nashville, TN, offers professional evaluations to determine the condition of your pipes and recommend the best method for clearing out those stubborn clogs.
We’ve got the tools and expertise to handle any plumbing challenge, from simple clogs to more severe blockages caused by tree roots, grease, or limescale. When it comes to hydro jetting and other plumbing services, we’ve got your back!
Final Thoughts
Choosing between hydro jetting and snaking depends on understanding the type of clog you’re dealing with and the condition of your pipes. Hydro jetting offers a thorough clean that helps prevent future issues, while snaking is a gentler, safer option for minor clogs and older systems.
If you’re in the Nashville, TN, area, reach out to Mister Greenway for a professional assessment to get your pipes running smoothly again.
FAQs
If you’re scratching your head about hydro jetting or snaking, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here are some common questions and answers to help you out:
How long does hydro jetting last?
Hydro jetting offers a thorough cleaning that can last several years, depending on the condition of your pipes and how much debris is typically washed down your drains.
Is hydro jetting safe for all pipes?
While hydro jetting is effective, it’s not always safe for older or fragile pipes. A professional inspection is necessary to assess whether your pipes can handle the pressure.
Can snaking damage pipes?
Snaking can sometimes scratch or damage the inside of pipes, especially if they are older or corroded. In most cases, though, it’s safe when used correctly.
What types of clogs are best suited for snaking?
Snaking is best suited for soft clogs like toilet paper, hair, and food debris. It’s effective for smaller blockages that haven’t become deeply lodged in the pipes or caused by grease buildup, tree roots, or other hard materials. Snaking works particularly well in homes with older, more fragile pipes that can’t withstand the pressure of hydro jetting.
When should I call a professional plumber for hydro jetting?
If you have serious blockages that a snake can’t fix, call a professional plumber for hydro jetting. This is important for issues like heavy grease, tree roots, or clogs that keep coming back.
Can I perform hydro jetting myself?
Hydro jetting is not a DIY task. The equipment used for hydro jetting requires specific training to operate safely, and the pressure involved can damage pipes if used incorrectly. Always hire a professional plumber to perform hydro jetting to ensure it’s done safely and effectively.
Is hydro jetting eco-friendly?
Yes, hydro jetting is eco-friendly. It uses only water to clean pipes, with no need for harsh chemicals that could potentially harm the environment or your home’s plumbing system. This makes it a great option for those who prefer greener solutions to plumbing problems.
How often should I get hydro jetting done?
For most homes, hydro jetting every one to two years is sufficient to keep your pipes clean and prevent clogs from forming. However, if you have older pipes, a lot of tree roots, or frequent plumbing issues, you might need to schedule hydro jetting more frequently. Always consult with a professional plumber to determine the best schedule for your home.
What’s the difference between hydro jetting and power washing?
While both hydro jetting and power washing involve high-pressure water, they are used for different purposes. Hydro jetting is specifically designed for cleaning pipes and removing blockages within a plumbing system, while power washing is used for cleaning exterior surfaces like driveways, decks, and siding.
Can hydro jetting remove tree roots?
Yes, hydro jetting is effective at removing tree roots from sewer lines and drain pipes. The high-pressure water can cut through and flush out roots that have intruded into your plumbing. However, if tree roots have caused extensive damage to the pipes, hydro jetting may not be enough, and pipe repair or replacement could be necessary.
How do I know if I need snaking or hydro jetting?
The best way to determine whether you need snaking or hydro jetting is to consult a professional plumber. They can perform a camera inspection of your pipes to identify the type and location of the clog
Does hydro jetting prevent future clogs?
Yes, hydro jetting is effective at preventing future clogs by thoroughly cleaning the inside of the pipes and removing all buildup, including fat, oil, grease (FOG), tree roots, and other debris. By starting with a clean slate, your plumbing system is less likely to experience recurring clogs in the near future.
