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Hydro Jetting vs. Snaking for a Clean Plumbing System

Dec 23, 2016

Hydro Jetting vs. Snaking for a Clean Plumbing System

water tap with hot water steam Encountering a stubborn clog is inconvenient, but it’s not the end of the world because there are a number of easy ways to get rid of the clog and get your plumbing flowing properly again.

When you discover the clog, your first step should be to get out the plunger. Often, this low-tech tool is all you need to dislodge that clog.

However, in the cases where a plunger doesn’t work, you’ll need to try one (or possibly both) of these alternative solutions: hydro jetting or a plumbing snake.

What’s a Plumbing Snake?

Simply, a plumbing snake is a long, flexible auger that the plumber (or yourself, if you are particularly handy) works through the pipe to the clog to remove it. This tool coils and uncoils much like a snake, which is where it gets its name. It has a sharp corkscrew-like end, which is effective at drilling its way through the debris. For extra power, sometimes a drill is attached to the end of the snake for assistance in forcing the tool down the pipes.

When Would I use a Plumbing Snake?

Typically, if a plunger doesn’t work, the plumbing snake is your next step in the order of sequence with these tools. It often is very effective and all you need to get rid of your clog.

plumbing-snaking

However, depending on why you have a clog in the first place (i.e. if you have a tree root growing through exterior piping or significant build-up of sand, silt or grease), the plumbing snake may not be your tool of choice.

One of the drawbacks of the plumbing snake is that it only cuts a small path through the clog (i.e. the size of the tip), which is generally about ¼ inch wide. In those cases where the clog is made of a more durable material, is more fibrous or complex, you made need to turn to hydro jetting.

How does Hydro Jetting Work? Is it Just for Clogs?

Hydro jetting works by unleashing a targeted spray of water with great strength right at the clog. The force of the water actually breaks the clog material apart and then flushes it right out of the system. This is a very effective method of removing clogs, but it isn’t without its drawbacks either. A wayward spray can damage your pipes, particularly if they are weak or compromised.

Hydro jetting is also an excellent preventative maintenance tool. A regular cleaning of your pipes with hydro jetting can eliminate clogs before they even have a chance to form.

A Job for the Professionals

Hydro jetting is a job best left to the professionals, mostly because you need specialized training and tools to use it properly. A trained professional can also run diagnostics prior to the job to determine if your pipes are sturdy enough to endure the pressure of the hydro jet.

For more help with your holiday plumbing preparations, call Johnson Heating & Cooling, Inc, today. Call (317) 881-7738 today for trustworthy service in Salt Lake City, UT, and the surrounding area.

 

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