When I’m out on jobs, I’m sometimes asked: “Is hydro jetting better than traditional drain snaking?” The answer depends on your situation, the condition of the plumbing system, and the cause of the blockage. Both methods clear blockages, but they differ in how they work and the results they deliver.
How Drain Snaking and Hydro Jetting Work
Traditional drain snaking uses a long, flexible metal cable with a corkscrew-like tip that rotates to break up or grab clogs. Snakes are excellent for clearing obstructions close to the drain’s entrance. Hair, food scraps, paper, and small items can be cleared with snaking. It’s a tried-and-true method plumbers have trusted for decades.
Hydro jetting uses a high-pressure stream of water—often up to 4,000 PSI —to scour the inside of the pipes. A specialized hose with a multi-directional nozzle washes away sludge, grease, and mineral buildup. Roots can also be cleared. Instead of just punching a hole through a clog, hydro jetting cleans the entire interior surface of the pipe.
The Pros of Drain Snaking
Snaking still has a valuable place in the plumber’s toolkit. Its main benefits include:
- Gentle on Older Pipes: For homes with aging or fragile pipes—and there are plenty of those in Albuquerque’s historic neighborhoods—a manual or electric drain snake is often safer. High-pressure water might be too harsh for corroded or weakened lines.
- Lower Cost: Snaking is typically less expensive than hydro jetting. Less equipment and time are needed. For minor clogs, snaking generally works fine.
- Quick Fix: When you’re dealing with a small blockage, a drain snake can clear it in minutes. It’s ideal for emergency calls where water just won’t go down.
- Simple Maintenance Option: Snaking can keep water and waste moving in between deeper, more intensive cleanings.
However, while snaking is good for immediate relief, it doesn’t thoroughly clean the pipe. Snaking clears the pathway but may leave residue behind.
The Cons of Drain Snaking
While it’s useful, it does have some drawbacks:
- Partial Cleaning: A snake typically clears enough space for water to pass, but can leave grease or sludge clinging to the pipe walls. This leftover debris may lead to new clogs sooner than expected.
- Limited Reach: Snakes work best for clogs close to the drain opening. If the blockage is deep in your sewer line or caused by tree roots, a snake might not reach it.
- Recurring Problems: When buildup remains, especially in older cast iron pipes, you could end up with the same problem sooner than you’d like.
If you find yourself having to snake the same drain every few months, it may be time to consider hydro jetting instead.
The Pros of Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting has gained popularity for a reason—it’s very thorough. Here’s what makes it a homeowner’s favorite:
- Deep Cleaning Power: The high-pressure water does more than just move clogs. It obliterates sludge, soap scum, grease, and even small tree roots. Your pipes are nearly as clean as when they were new.
- Long-Lasting Results: Because it is more thorough, hydro jetting can extend the life of your plumbing system and reduce the frequency of cleanings.
- Eco-Friendly: Hydro jetting uses only water, no harsh chemicals. That’s good for your plumbing, your household, and Albuquerque’s environment.
- Versatile and Effective: It’s useful in both residential and commercial settings, and can remedy problems in kitchen drains, sewer lines, and storm drains.
The Cons of Hydro Jetting
Despite its benefits, hydro jetting isn’t always the best choice for every home:
- Higher Upfront Cost: Jetting requires specialized equipment and training, so it costs more than snaking. However, results usually last longer, often balancing out the expense over time.
- Not Ideal for Fragile Pipes: With corroded, cracked or older clay lines, high-pressure water can further damage them. A professional inspection (most easily done with a specialized video camera) is essential before hydro jetting.
- Requires Professional Experience: Hydro jetting requires a higher level of skill. In the hands of an inexperienced person, the pressure could damage your plumbing system.
So, Which Is Better?
The right choice depends on your situation. If the only problem is an occasional slow drain or minor blockage, traditional snaking may be all you need. It’s fast, affordable, and effective for small issues.
However, if you’re dealing with repeat clogs, foul odors, or slow drains throughout the house, hydro jetting is worth serious consideration. It doesn’t just fix clogs—it restores the health of your plumbing system.
Trust Rocketman Plumbing to Correctly Diagnose the Problem
If you’ve got clogs or slow drains, you need both accurate diagnosis and fast, thorough service. My technicians and I are dedicated to providing the most economical solution that gives you the repair you need. Call us any time your plumbing system is making life a little too exciting! We’ll be on the road quickly to return everything to normal.
If you’re in the Albuquerque area, call us at (505) 243-1227 for fast, ethical and accurate inspections and repairs.
