Is hydro jetting better than snaking?
Let’s talk about everyone’s favorite topic: clogged pipes!
Okay, maybe not everyone’s (or anyone’s) favorite, but if you’re dealing with this headache, you’re probably wondering what the best way to fix it is. You have two main options: the traditional snake method or hydro jetting, the newer kid on the block. I’m here to break down why hydro jetting might be your better bet, even though snaking has been around forever.
Hydro Jetting and Snaking
Snaking: The Old Standby
You know those long, flexible cables with a coiled end that plumbers have been using forever? That’s snaking, or drain augering. It’s like using a tiny corkscrew to push through whatever’s blocking your pipes. But here’s the thing: it’s got some drawbacks:
Think of snaking as using a stick to push through a clogged straw. Sure, you might get the immediate blockage out, but what about all that gunk still stuck to the sides? That’s still there, waiting to cause problems later. Plus, snaking might not cut it if you’ve got something really stubborn in there, like tree roots that decided to make your pipes their new home.
Hydro Jetting
Now, let me introduce you to hydro jetting. It’s like giving your pipes a power wash from the inside. We’re talking about water pressure up to 4,000 PSI; that’s some serious cleaning power! Here’s why it’s becoming the go-to choice:
Imagine using a pressure washer instead of that stick in the straw. Not only does it blast through the clog, but it also scrubs those pipe walls clean. It can handle pretty much anything: grease, tree roots, years of buildup, you name it. Plus, since it cleans the entire pipe, it helps prevent future clogs, so you’re less likely to call your plumber again next month for another clogged drain.
How Hydro Jetting Works
Picture this: a special hose with a nozzle that looks like a tiny sprinkler system goes into your drain. When we turn it on, it shoots pressurized water in multiple directions to clean the pipes. We can adjust the pressure depending on what your pipes can handle; we don’t want to go full blast on great-grandma’s original plumbing!
It works on any type of pipe. Though fair warning, we’ll want to check your pipes first to make sure they’re up for the treatment. It’s not a good idea to subject fragile pipes to high pressure water for drain cleaning.
Hydro Jetting for Preventative Maintenance
You know how they say prevention is better than cure? That’s where hydro jetting really shines. It’s not just for emergencies – regular hydro jetting is like giving your pipes an annual physical.
Remember that Thanksgiving dinner where everyone poured grease down the drain? (We’ve all been there!) That grease and other fats and oils can build up over time and form what we call “fatbergs” (yes, they’re as gross as they sound). Regular hydro jetting keeps these from forming and helps avoid those lovely sewage backup situations nobody wants to deal with.
Advantages of Hydro Jetting Service
I know what you’re thinking: “This sounds expensive.” While it might cost more upfront than snaking, consider it an investment. It’s like choosing between putting a band-aid on a problem or actually fixing it.
Our equipment is impressive; we can clean up to 300 feet of pipe and have cameras to see exactly what we’re dealing with. Plus, it’s not just for homes. Businesses, farms, and even entire city sewer systems use hydro jetting because it works so well.
Thinking about trying to DIY hydro jetting? Go here to learn more.
Hydro jetting offers a more thorough and effective solution than snaking for clearing stubborn clogs and maintaining your plumbing system. Unlike snaking, which only removes immediate obstructions, hydro jetting cleans the entire pipe, keeping it free from buildup and reducing the chance of future issues. Hydro jetting is the better choice whether you need to clear a clog or keep your pipes in good condition.
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Melbourne, FL is here to handle all your hydro jetting needs. Our punctual, professional plumbers always show up on time to finish the job. Contact us today to schedule a service and keep your pipes flowing smoothly!