Hydro Jetting vs. Snaking: Which Is Best for Clogged Drains?
Clogged drains are one of the most frustrating plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a backed-up shower, or a stubborn main sewer line, you want it fixed fast, and properly. Two of the most common professional drain-cleaning methods are hydro jetting and snaking. But which one is better for your situation? Let’s break it down.
What Is Drain Snaking?
Drain snaking, also called cabling, has been around for decades. It involves using a long, flexible metal cable with a coiled end (called an auger) that is fed into the drain. As the snake spins, it breaks up blockages and pushes debris through the pipe.
Pros of Snaking:
- Effective for minor or moderate clogs near the surface
- Quick, affordable, and minimally invasive
- Good for older or fragile plumbing systems
Cons of Snaking:
- Doesn’t clean pipe walls, residue and grease may remain
- May not fully clear roots or heavy buildup
- Can be a temporary fix for deep or complex blockages
Snaking is great for everyday clogs like hair, soap scum, or small food particles, but it’s not a cure-all.
What Is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting is a more powerful and modern drain-cleaning solution. It uses a specialized nozzle attached to a high-pressure water hose that blasts water through the pipe, often at pressures up to 4,000 PSI. This stream scours the entire inside of the pipe, removing grease, sludge, mineral buildup, and even tree roots.
Pros of Hydro Jetting:
- Cleans pipes completely, not just unclogs them
- Removes grease, sludge, and roots for long-lasting results
- Environmentally friendly, no harsh chemicals used
- Helps prevent future blockages
Cons of Hydro Jetting:
- Slightly more expensive upfront
- Not suitable for severely damaged or brittle pipes
Which Is Right for You?
If you’re dealing with a simple sink or shower clog, snaking is often enough to get the job done. But if your drains clog repeatedly, or multiple fixtures are backing up at once, it’s time to consider hydro jetting.
Hydro jetting is ideal for:
- Older homes with years of buildup
- Restaurants or households with heavy grease waste
- Tree root intrusions in main sewer lines
- Preventive maintenance to keep drains flowing
At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we use state-of-the-art hydro jetting equipment to restore your pipes to full flow, safely and effectively. Our experienced technicians can inspect your plumbing with video cameras to determine the best method before starting work.
Don’t let recurring clogs disrupt your home, call the experts who can clear it right the first time.
248-652-0990 | 🌐 www.pnsplumbing.com
