Hydro Jetting vs Traditional Drain Cleaning: Which Is Better?

hydro jetting
You’ve experienced a clogged drain before, and because they all look pretty similar on the surface, it can be hard to tell whether it can be cleared with a quick fix or if the problem is deeper in the pipes.  Usually, a clog is fixed with drain snaking or hydro jetting. One isn’t necessarily better than the other. Choosing what your drain needs all depends on what is causing the blockage and how often the clog comes back.

How Hydro Jetting Actually Works

Hydro jetting uses a special hose and nozzle that sends water through the pipe at a really high pressure to clear the buildup inside the pipe walls.  It breaks up all that grease, soap scum, sludge, and debris that snaking doesn’t usually touch.  Grease is a big cause of clogs, especially in kitchen drain lines.  Learning some tips on how to avoid sewer clogs from fats, oils, and grease is something all homeowners and renters should do.

The Way Traditional Drain Snaking Really Works

A drain snake is a flexible cable that clears a path through the clog. It is often the fastest option when it comes to things like hair, small obstructions, or localized buildup near a fixture.  For one-off clogs, snaking can be effective and easier on your wallet. However, snaking can’t solve the problem when the pipe walls are coated with thick grease or scale.  In those cases, the drain may run again, but the remaining buildup can keep catching debris, which means the clog will be back before you know it!

But How Do They Compare?

Category Hydro Jetting Drain Snaking
Best For  Heavy buildup, recurring clogs, grease, and some root issues Clogs caused by hair and other small obstructions
End Result Clears the clog and cleans pipe walls  Removes the debris for water to pass through
Cost Usually higher upfront Usually lower upfront
Frequency When problems repeat, or lines are heavily coated When clogs are occasional and isolated
If you are noticing signs that you need drain cleaning, and are looking for drain cleaning methods that are more than just a temporary fix, contact us today to ask if your drains qualify!