Clogged drains are inevitable. You will have to deal with them at one point or another. The accumulation of soap, hair, food particles, grease, etc., eventually clogs your drain. Fortunately, there are ways to unclog them, with hydro-jetting and the snaking method being the most popular. 

So, which one of the two is the better option for drain cleaning? Let’s look at the pros and cons of both to find out!

The Snaking Method

This method of drain cleaning requires the use of a plumber’s snake, which is a long and flexible metal tube. The tube is inserted into the drain to unclog it. 

Pros of Snaking 

Let’s look at all the pros of snaking:

  • It’s perfect for clearing minor clogs
  • It is suitable for homes with old plumbing systems that can’t withstand the high pressure of hydro-jetting.

Cons of Snaking

  • It only clears clogs temporarily. It does not clean the pipes thoroughly, leaving behind residual buildup. 
  • It can lead to scratches on your pipe that can cause cracks and rust later on. 

Hydro-Jetting

In hydro-jetting, a high-pressure hose is used to clean drains. The stream of high-pressure water flushes out all the clogs from the pipes. 

Pros of Hydro-Jetting

Here is a list of all the pros of hydro-jetting: 

  • Unlike snaking, this method of drain cleaning is more thorough and does not leave behind any traces of dirt, debris, or grease, making it more efficient. 
  • While it may cost more initially, hydro-jetting keeps your pipes clean for longer, making it a less expensive solution in the long term. 
  • This technique is mess-free, and there’s zero risk of sewage contaminants coming in contact with your home, making it a safer choice for homeowners.
  • It’s the most suitable solution for both commercial and residential properties.
  • Since no chemicals are involved, it does not pose any health concerns. Plus, it is also better for the environment. 
  • With hydro-jetting, your plumbing line stays clean and unclogged for longer, thus reducing the risk of you running into plumbing issues in the future. 

Cons of Hydro-Jetting

  • It is not safe for homes with old plumbing lines. 
  • A video inspection of your pipes is required before using hydro-jetting to assess the condition of the pipes. 

Considering both techniques’ pros and cons, it would be safe to say that hydro-jetting is the better option unless your plumbing system is too old to handle the pressure. 

Reach out to Harry Hayes Plumbing, and our experts can determine whether or not your home is suitable for hydro-jetting. Call us at (904) 723-5609 for more details.