Hydro Jetting vs. Snaking: Which Drain Cleaning Method Is Right for You?
When your drains clog, two of the most common professional drain cleaning solutions are snaking and hydro jetting. Both methods can clear blockages, but they work in very different ways—and knowing which one is right for your situation can save you money, time, and frustration. Let’s break down the differences, benefits, and best uses for each.
What Is Snaking?
Snaking, also called drain augering, involves using a flexible metal cable with a corkscrew-like tip. A plumber feeds the cable into the drain, rotating it to break apart or hook onto clogs. The debris is either pulled back out or pushed through the pipe, restoring flow.
Best for:
Simple, shallow clogs caused by hair, food, or soap scum.
Minor blockages in sinks, tubs, and toilets.
Quick fixes when you need immediate relief.
Pros of Snaking:
Affordable and widely available.
Less invasive—ideal for minor clogs.
Works well for targeted blockages close to the drain.
Cons of Snaking:
Only creates a pathway through the clog rather than fully cleaning the pipe.
May not work on severe grease buildup or tree roots.
Clogs are more likely to come back compared to hydro jetting.
What Is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting uses a high-pressure stream of water (often 3,000–8,000 PSI) to blast away debris, grease, mineral buildup, and even intrusive tree roots. The hose is fed into the drain, and the water jets scour the inside of the pipes, flushing everything out into the sewer or septic system.
Best for:
Stubborn or recurring clogs.
Homes with old pipes prone to buildup.
Tree root intrusion in sewer lines.
Preventive maintenance to restore pipe efficiency.
Pros of Hydro Jetting:
Completely cleans the pipe walls, not just the clog.
Prevents future blockages by removing buildup.
Environmentally friendly—uses only water, no harsh chemicals.
Can handle heavy-duty blockages like roots and hardened grease.
Cons of Hydro Jetting:
More expensive than snaking.
Not always safe for fragile or severely damaged pipes.
Requires professional equipment and expertise.
Which Method Is Right for You?
Choosing between snaking and hydro jetting comes down to the type and severity of the clog.
Choose Snaking if:
You’re dealing with a minor clog, such as a slow-draining sink or toilet. It’s a quick, cost-effective option for shallow blockages.Choose Hydro Jetting if:
You’ve got stubborn, recurring clogs, or you want a long-term solution that restores your pipes to near-original condition. It’s also the better choice if your plumber suspects grease buildup, mineral deposits, or roots are causing the issue.
Both snaking and hydro jetting are effective, but they serve different purposes. Snaking is the quick fix for small clogs, while hydro jetting is the powerful deep clean that keeps pipes flowing smoothly for years. A trusted plumber can inspect your pipes and recommend the best method for your specific situation.