Why Hydro Jetting Beats Snaking for Clearing Tough Clogs

When stubborn clogged pipes bring your plumbing to a halt, the real challenge is finding a solution that keeps things moving for the long run. Homeowners often have to choose between two methods: hydro jetting and snaking. While both can clear a blockage, one offers a more lasting impact. Snaking provides a fast, surface-level fix. Hydro jetting, however, tackles the deeper issue by fully cleaning the pipe.

This blog explains why hydro jetting is the better choice when you want clear, reliable drains for the long haul.

What Is Snaking?

Snaking, also known as drain augering, is a traditional method that utilizes a flexible metal cable to remove clogs from drains. It has been used for decades and still comes in handy in the right situations. Plumbers often turn to snaking when the blockage is close to the drain opening. The method is straightforward and requires minimal equipment, making it useful for quick jobs. However, while it may work well for simple clogs, it’s not always the right tool for more complex cases.

How Does Snaking Work?

A plumber feeds a coiled cable into the pipe until it reaches the obstruction. The tip either breaks through the blockage or grabs it so it can be pulled out. This often restores water flow but doesn’t remove the residue that lines the pipe walls. 

In most cases, snaking simply opens a narrow channel through the clog. That’s enough to get water moving again, but not enough to prevent future buildup. Snaking tools vary in style—some are hand-operated, others motorized—and can be used with different pipe sizes, but they all share the same basic function.

When Snaking Makes Sense

Snaking works best when the clog is small, local, and the pipes are fragile or older. It’s also useful when hydro jetting isn’t an option. Think of clogs from hair, toilet paper, or small objects that haven’t had time to settle in. Snaking is a good option for homes with tight plumbing layouts or delicate joints that may not withstand high water pressure.

Limitations of Snaking

Surface-Level Fix

Snaking clears a path through the blockage, but leaves residue behind. That leftover buildup can eventually harden and collect more debris, which means the clogged pipe is likely to return.

Higher Recurrence of Clogs

Since the inner pipe walls aren’t cleaned, clogs often come back. This means homeowners may end up calling a plumbing service repeatedly to address the same issue.

Ineffective for Certain Materials

Snaking doesn’t work well on grease, thick sludge, or tree roots. These problems usually spread across the pipe walls, making it hard for a cable to dislodge them.

No Preventative Benefits

Snaking solves the symptom, but not the cause. The debris clinging to the inside of the pipe stays put, and with it, the risk of a new clog forming in the same spot.

What Is Hydro Jetting?

Hydro jetting clears blockages with high-pressure water and fully cleans the interior of your pipes. It’s a popular method for homes and businesses that struggle with frequent clogged pipes. 

Hydro jetting restores the full diameter of the pipe and leaves it free from residue. This makes it ideal for individuals who want to prevent recurring problems and ensure their drain cleaning is done correctly. It’s also widely used for maintenance, especially in properties that deal with large volumes of wastewater.

How Does Hydro Jetting Work?

A hose with a special nozzle is inserted into the drain. Water is blasted through it at high pressure—up to 4,000 PSI—breaking up clogs and cleaning buildup from the pipe walls. The nozzle sprays in different directions, reaching tight corners and rough surfaces. This scouring action smooths the pipe interior and makes it harder for debris to stick. Technicians adjust the pressure based on the size and condition of the pipe to get the best results without causing damage.

Why Hydro Jetting Outperforms Snaking

Thorough Pipe Cleaning

Hydro jetting clears the clog and scrubs the pipe walls clean. Your plumbing ends up in far better shape than it would with a quick fix. Water flows more freely, and the cleaner interior means less chance of future buildup.

Long-Term Results

Hydro jetting removes the root cause of many blockages. It’s a strong option for homes with older pipes that tend to collect debris. Fewer clogged pipes mean fewer emergencies, and that saves time and money in the long run.

Handles Tougher Blockages

This method breaks through grease, sludge, and tree roots that snaking can’t touch. Many commercial kitchens use hydro jetting to keep their drains clear. Homeowners also find it useful for outdoor lines where root systems are a common issue.

Eco-Friendly and Chemical-Free

Hydro jetting only uses water. There’s no risk of chemicals damaging your pipes or harming your property. Since you don’t need repeated treatments, it’s a cleaner, greener drain cleaning choice overall.

Preventative Maintenance

Many homeowners include hydro jetting in their yearly maintenance checklist to stay ahead of plumbing issues. It’s especially helpful before listing a home for sale or after buying an older property. Keeping pipes clean protects water flow and helps prevent costly repairs down the line.

Choose Brothers Plumbing for Professional Hydro Jetting Services

When it comes to clearing clogged pipes and keeping your plumbing in shape, our hydro jetting services stand out. At Brothers Plumbing, we have the tools and know-how to do the job right, and the results speak for themselves. Whether you’re dealing with a kitchen sink or a main sewer line, we’ll assess the situation and offer a solution that fits.

For more information about our plumbing services or to book an appointment, call Brothers Plumbing today at 647-247-2230 or contact us here.