Clogged drains are a common issue that most homeowners will deal with at some point. Whether it is the shower backing up after taking a shower, standing water in the kitchen sink due to grease buildup, or the toilet draining slower than usual, you need to act fast to avoid further problems.
There are two ways that you can go about cleaning your drains—snaking or hydro jetting. For minor clogs occurring near the surface, snaking is often the go-to solution. However, when dealing with stubborn clogs, hydro jetting handled by a professional plumber is the better option. In this guide, the pros at High Speed Plumbing share more information about snaking vs. hydro jetting and which method is better for different situations.
What Is Drain Snaking?
Drain snaking is a traditional and widely used method for clearing minor to moderate clogs. It involves using a flexible metal cable, also called an auger, that’s fed into the drain until it reaches the blockage. At the end of the snake is a corkscrew-like coil that either breaks up the clog or pulls it out, restoring water flow.
Snaking is effective for simple blockages caused by everyday debris like hair, soap scum, or small food particles. It’s also less invasive and usually costs less than hydro jetting, making it an attractive option for minor plumbing problems. However, it’s worth noting that snaking doesn’t always clean the pipe walls completely, meaning buildup may remain and clogs can reoccur over time.
What Is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting is a more advanced and powerful method of clearing drains. Instead of using a mechanical tool to push through clogs, hydro jetting uses high-pressure water streams to blast away blockages and thoroughly clean the inside of your pipes. The pressure, which can reach up to 4,000 PSI, is strong enough to break through grease, sludge, tree roots, and mineral deposits—things a drain snake can’t always handle.
This method is ideal for stubborn, recurring, or deep clogs and is used for larger drain lines or sewer pipes. This drain cleaning method should be left to a trusted plumbing repair service with years of industry experience.
When to Use Snaking vs. Hydro Jetting
The choice between snaking and hydro jetting in Fullerton, CA depends on the type, location, and severity of the clog:
Use Snaking If:
- You’re dealing with a simple, surface-level clog.
- The blockage is caused by hair, soap, or light debris.
- You need a quick and affordable solution.
- Your pipes are older and may not withstand high-pressure cleaning.
Use Hydro Jetting If:
- You have recurring or stubborn clogs that snaking can’t solve.
- There’s a major grease, sludge, or mineral buildup inside your pipes.
- Tree roots have invaded your sewer line.
- You want a long-term solution that thoroughly cleans the entire pipe.
Which Method Is Better?
Neither method is inherently better; it all comes down to your specific plumbing problem. Snaking is less expensive and works well for minor issues, while hydro jetting in San Marino, CA provides a deeper, more permanent solution for major blockages and buildup.
If you’re experiencing slow drains, gurgling sounds, bad odors, or repeated clogs, it’s a good idea to have a professional plumber inspect your drain line. With specialized cameras and diagnostic tools, they can determine the cause of the blockage and recommend the safest and most effective approach.
Contact High Speed Plumbing When You Need Drain Cleaning Services
If you’re dealing with clogged drains in your home, trust the team at High Speed Plumbing to deliver reliable drain cleaning services. Our plumbers are highly trained and equipped with state-of-the-art tools to clear even the most stubborn clogs. As a locally owned and operated company with years of experience, you can count on us to deliver exceptional services at affordable prices. Contact us now to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.
