Have a Drain Problem in Your Home?

If you’ve experienced problems with clogged drains or the main sewer line backing up, you’ve likely tried snaking or hydro jetting as solutions. Both are methods to tackle stubborn clogs, but each has its advantages and disadvantages.

What Is Hydro Jetting and How Does It Work?

Hydro-jetting is a highly effective way of addressing slow running or clogged sewer lines. Professional plumbing contractors use it on both commercial and residential plumbing. It consists of sending a blast of high-pressure water into sewer lines. The pressure used by most hydro jetting systems varies between 3,000 and 8,000 PSI, though 4,000 PSI is the pressure most commonly used.

The main advantage of hydro jetting is that it cleans your drains far more efficiently than any other method. The powerful water stream gets rid of any buildup in the pipe, including grease, sand, hair, scale and even tree roots. Many homeowners hire a professional plumber offering hydro jetting services when they experience recurring clogs in their sewer lines. Hydro jetting is also an environmentally friendly solution, as it uses just water without any potentially harmful chemicals.

What is a Plumbing Snake?

A plumbing snake is a flexible auger specifically designed to eliminate clogged pipes. The tool is quite effective at tackling many kinds of clogs in sewer lines, as well as sinks and bathtubs. Toilets require the use of a specially-designed plumbing snake due to their larger drain pipes. A toilet auger also has a plastic boot at the end to protect the toilet’s finish from damage. Even though professional plumbers mainly use plumbing snakes, some homeowners have one and use it to clear minor drain problems themselves.

When Should a Plumbing Snake Be Used?

A plumbing snake is most commonly used when experiencing a clog that can’t be fixed with just a plunger. If you own a plumbing snake and know how to use it safely and efficiently, it can be a handy tool to clear a slow running sink or bathtub drain. If you have a snake designed for toilets, you can use it if your toilet got clogged and the plunger isn’t helping.

If the problem is with your sewer line, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional plumbing contractor. Some plumbers may use a snake on your sewer line if the clog is relatively straightforward and there isn’t much buildup on the interior walls.

Hydro Jetting Should Be Done by Professionals Only!

Hydro jetting requires the use of professional equipment that is usually owned only by specialized plumbing contractors. A video inspection of the pipes needs to be done beforehand to find the source of the problem.

While hydro jetting is very effective, it can also damage older and more fragile pipes due to the high pressure of the water jet used. Professional plumbing contractors have the experience and knowledge to determine whether a pipe will be able to withstand the pressure without damage.

If you’re experiencing clogged or slow running drains in Dallas, TX, Reeves Family Plumbing is here to help give us a call at (972) 247-3763 today. We offer professional drain cleaning services, including hydro jetting.