Hydro Jetting vs Traditional Drain Snaking: Which Method Is Right for Your Clogged Pipes

When Your Pipes Are Clogged, Should You Choose the Power of Hydro Jetting or the Precision of Traditional Snaking?

Dealing with stubborn drain clogs can be frustrating, especially when simple plunging doesn’t work. When faced with persistent blockages, homeowners and business owners typically have two professional options: hydro jetting and traditional drain snaking. Understanding the differences between these methods can help you make an informed decision about which approach is right for your specific plumbing situation.

Understanding Traditional Drain Snaking

Traditional drain snaking, also called a plumbing auger, uses a long flexible metal tube with a cable inside and a corkscrew auger attached to one end. The drain technician turns a crank to twist the blades into the obstruction and push with force, either punching a hole through the clog or twisting the clog around the snake’s terminal end so it can be pulled out.

The advantages of snaking include:

  • It’s gentler on pipes, making it suitable for very old or fragile pipes
  • It’s a quick and affordable solution for minor clogs and typically costs less than hydro jetting
  • It’s a straightforward method that has been used for decades with proven success

However, snaking has limitations. The snake pushes through the clog to remove it, but the hole it makes is too small to thoroughly clean pipes, often leaving traces of blockage behind which can cause pipes to clog faster next time. For fatbergs (grease buildups), invasive tree roots, or solid mineral deposits, the auger might pierce through but not remove the clog entirely, leaving remnants that could cause the issue to resurface.

The Power of Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting is a method of drain cleaning that uses pressurized water fed into a drain with a high-pressure hose, with powerful streams reaching anywhere between 3,000 to 8,000 PSI to clear clogs. For those dealing with severe blockages in the Chicago area, hydro jetting offers a comprehensive solution that goes beyond simple clog removal.

The benefits of hydro jetting include:

  • It’s highly effective and doesn’t leave traces of debris behind, providing a long-lasting solution that can remove buildup from the entire length of the pipe
  • It’s especially effective for removing stubborn clogs caused by mineral buildup, tree roots, and other hard-to-remove materials, with water pressure strong enough to cut through tree roots
  • It’s environmentally friendly, using only water and no harsh chemicals while ensuring the plumbing system is clean
  • By removing corrosive buildup, hydro jetting helps pipes last longer and provides peace of mind knowing pipes are clean and clear

Hydro jetting is a more expensive option than snaking, and it’s not a DIY project since pressurized water is extremely powerful and can damage pipes if used incorrectly, so it should be left to professionals.

Which Method Should You Choose?

The decision between hydro jetting and snaking depends on several factors:

Type of Clog: For soft clogs like hair, food, and toilet paper, snaking should suffice. For hard clogs like grease, roots, and mineral deposits, hydro jetting is the better choice.

Pipe Condition: If your pipes are old or fragile, snaking is the safer bet. Hydro jetting is best for pipes that can withstand high pressure. Professional plumbers often conduct a video inspection to assess structural integrity before hydro jetting an aging system.

Frequency of Problems: If your drains keep backing up, snaking may only be providing a temporary fix, while hydro jetting offers a more thorough cleaning. If drains keep backing up despite repeated snaking, it’s a sign that hydro jetting may be necessary for a thorough cleanse.

Professional Service in Chicago

All Rooter Hydro Jetting Experts Inc. serves as a trusted emergency plumber in Chicago, with local expertise knowing Chicago’s plumbing inside and out. When performed by trained professionals like their team, hydro jetting is safe for all types of pipes, using industrial-strength equipment that blasts away stubborn clogs with water pressures exceeding 4000 PSI.

The company offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprises, providing 24-hour emergency service since plumbing emergencies don’t stick to a 9-to-5 schedule. For most Chicago homes, they recommend hydro jetting every 1-2 years as preventative maintenance, though older plumbing systems may require more frequent cleanings.

Making the Right Choice

Your unique situation—considering the nature of the clog, the state of your pipes, and your budget—will dictate the best approach, and it’s always advisable to consult with a professional plumber. While both hydro jetting and snaking have their advantages, hydro jetting offers a thorough and long-lasting solution for many types of clogs and drainage issues.

Whether you’re dealing with a simple hair clog that snaking can handle or a stubborn grease buildup requiring the power of hydro jetting, the key is working with experienced professionals who can assess your specific situation and recommend the most effective solution. Don’t let persistent drain problems disrupt your daily routine—contact a qualified plumbing service to restore your pipes to optimal condition.