Hydro Jet vs Snake - Shelby Mechanical, LLC.

Hydro Jet vs. Snaking

Which is the Best Option for Your Clogged Pipes?

When your plumbing starts acting up, a clogged drain can be more than just an inconvenience – it can cause serious damage if not dealt with promptly.

Two of the most popular methods for clearing clogged pipes are hydro jetting and snaking. But what’s the difference between them, and which one should you choose? In this blog, we’ll dive into the details of both options, helping you decide which plumbing service is best for your needs.

What is Snaking?

Snaking (or drain augering) is a traditional method for clearing blocked drains. A plumber uses a long, flexible metal cable with a coil at the end, which is fed into the drain to break up or dislodge blockages. The cable is manually rotated (or powered by a motor in some cases) to cut through debris like tree roots, grease, hair, or food waste that may be clogging your pipes.

When Should You Use Snaking?

Snaking is often the go-to solution for minor to moderate blockages, especially in smaller drains like bathroom sinks or tubs. It’s effective for clearing out obstructions that can be reached within the piping system. Some advantages of snaking include:

Cost-effective

Snaking is typically less expensive than hydro jetting, making it a great option for homeowners on a budget.

Quick solution

For most basic blockages, snaking can be completed fairly quickly.

Works well for physical obstructions

If you have a blockage caused by a solid object or a buildup of hair, snaking can help remove it.

However, snaking isn’t always a one-size-fits-all solution. While it may clear the blockage, it doesn’t necessarily clean the entire pipe or address the root cause of recurring clogs.

What is Hydro Jetting?

Hydro jetting involves the use of high-pressure water to blast away blockages and thoroughly clean the inside of your pipes. A specialized hose with a high-pressure nozzle is inserted into the drain, and water is forced through at speeds that can reach up to 4,000 psi. This powerful stream of water breaks up debris, dissolves grease, and can even clear out tree roots from your plumbing system.

When Should You Use Hydro Jetting?

Hydro jetting is a more advanced and thorough method of pipe cleaning, making it an ideal choice for more serious blockages or ongoing plumbing issues. Here’s why hydro jetting might be right for you:

Comprehensive cleaning

Hydro jetting doesn’t just clear the obstruction; it cleans the entire interior of the pipes, removing accumulated grease, debris, and even mineral buildup that a snake could not remove.

Prevents future clogs

Because it thoroughly cleans the pipes, hydro jetting can help prevent future clogs and extend the lifespan of your plumbing.

Effective for tough blockages

Hydro jetting can tackle stubborn clogs caused by tree roots, heavy grease buildup, and other tough-to-remove obstructions.

Eco-friendly

Unlike chemical drain cleaners, hydro jetting uses only water, making it a safe and environmentally-friendly option.

That said, hydro jetting is typically recommended for more severe or recurring blockages and is generally more expensive than snaking.

Hydro Jet vs. Snaking: Which Is Right for You?

Now that we’ve covered the basics of both services, let’s break down when you should choose one over the other:

Choose Snaking If:

You have a simple clog that can be easily reached and cleared.
You’re dealing with a minor issue like hair buildup or food waste.
You need a quick and budget-friendly solution.

Choose Hydro Jetting If:

You have recurring drain problems or stubborn blockages.
You want a more thorough, long-term solution that cleans your pipes inside and out.
You’re dealing with tree roots or other tough-to-remove obstructions.
You want to reduce the likelihood of future clogs and ensure the longevity of your plumbing.

Can Hydro Jetting and Snaking Be Used Together?

In some cases, a plumber may recommend using both services to completely resolve a stubborn clog. For example, snaking may be used to break up a major obstruction, and then hydro jetting can be used afterward to thoroughly clean the pipes and prevent future issues. This combination approach can be particularly effective for homes with older plumbing or chronic drainage problems.

Why Choose Professional Plumbing Services?

While it’s tempting to try DIY solutions for clogged drains, it’s always a good idea to call in the professionals. Plumbers have the right tools, training, and experience to handle both snaking and hydro jetting safely and effectively. Plus, they can identify underlying issues (like damaged pipes or misaligned plumbing) that might be contributing to frequent blockages.
At Shelby Mechanical we specialize in both snaking and hydro jetting services, and our team is dedicated to providing top-notch plumbing solutions for every situation. Whether you need a quick fix or a long-term solution, we’ll help restore your plumbing system to its optimal condition.

Making the Right Choice for Your Plumbing Needs

Whether you choose snaking or hydro jetting depends on the severity of your clog and the condition of your pipes. Snaking is a great option for minor blockages, while hydro jetting offers a more thorough and long-lasting solution for tougher issues. If you’re unsure which service is right for your situation, give us a call! Our experienced plumbers will assess your plumbing and recommend the best solution for you.

At Shelby Mechanical we specialize in both snaking and hydro jetting services, and our team is dedicated to providing top-notch plumbing solutions for every situation. Whether you need a quick fix or a long-term solution, we’ll help restore your plumbing system to its optimal condition.

Need help with a clog? Contact Shelby Mechanical today for fast, reliable service!