Drain Cleaning 101: Jetting vs. Snaking — Which One’s Better?

Ever had a drain clog so bad it made your sink look like a swamp? Whether it’s your kitchen sink, shower, or toilet, clogged drains are a problem nobody wants to deal with. But when it happens, how do you decide the best way to clean it?

If you live in Commerce City, CO, chances are you’ve searched for a plumbing company that can help. The big question is: should you go with traditional drain cleaning or high-pressure jetting?

Let’s break down what both options are, how they work, their pros and cons, and when you should use each. By the end, you’ll know exactly which method is best for your home and when it’s time to call a professional plumbing company in Commerce City, CO.

What is Traditional Drain Cleaning?

Traditional drain cleaning is the most common and basic way to deal with clogged drains. It usually involves:

• Plungers – Great for simple blockages like a clogged toilet or shallow kitchen sink clog.
• Drain Snakes or Augers – These are long flexible tools that are pushed down the drain to break apart or pull out the clog.
• Hand-Cranked or Motorized Machines – Used by plumbers to reach deeper clogs in larger pipes.

This method works by breaking up or pulling out whatever is causing the blockage so water can flow again.

When is Traditional Drain Cleaning Used?

• For minor clogs like hair in the shower drain or food in the kitchen sink.
• In homes with older plumbing that might not handle high-pressure water well.
• As a quick fix for one-time clogs that aren’t too serious.

What is High-Pressure Jetting?

High-pressure jetting, also called hydro jetting, is a more powerful and modern way to clean pipes. It uses a machine that sends a stream of water through a hose at super high pressure—up to 4,000 PSI (pounds per square inch). That’s powerful enough to blast away:

• Thick grease
• Food and soap buildup
• Tree roots
• Mineral deposits

This method doesn’t just unclog the pipe; it scrubs the inside walls clean so the buildup doesn’t come back anytime soon.

When is High-Pressure Jetting Used?

• When you’ve got a major clog that just won’t go away.
• If you’ve had multiple clogs in the same drain over time.
• In commercial buildings or large homes with heavy use.
• To remove years of grease and gunk from older pipes (if they’re in good condition).

Pros and Cons

Traditional Drain Cleaning

Pros:

• Affordable: Cheaper than hydro jetting, especially for small clogs.
• Quick Fix: Great for simple, everyday clogs.
• Less Equipment Needed: Some clogs can be fixed with tools you already have.

Cons:

• Not as Thorough: It might not get rid of all the buildup inside your pipes.
• Temporary Solution: Clogs can come back quickly if the problem isn’t fully cleared.
• Limited Reach: May not reach deep into the plumbing system.

High-Pressure Jetting

Pros:

• Deep Cleaning: Removes all buildup and clears the entire pipe.
• Prevents Future Clogs: Since it cleans the walls of the pipe, it helps prevent clogs from returning.
• No Chemicals: It’s eco-friendly and uses only water.

Cons:

• More Expensive: It costs more than traditional methods.
• Can Damage Old Pipes: Pipes that are very old or already damaged might not handle the high pressure.
• Requires Professional Help: This isn’t a DIY fix. You’ll need a trained plumber to do it safely.

How to Decide Which One You Need

Here’s a simple way to decide between traditional cleaning and hydro jetting:

Use Traditional Drain Cleaning If:

• You have a small, isolated clog.
• Your pipes are very old or fragile.
• You want a cheaper, quicker fix.

Use High-Pressure Jetting If:

• You’ve had repeat clogs in the same drain.
• You want a long-term solution.
• You suspect grease, mineral deposits, or tree roots are causing the clog.
• Your home’s plumbing is in good shape and can handle the pressure.

If you’re not sure what condition your pipes are in, a Plumbing Company In Commerce City CO can inspect them with a special camera and let you know what’s safe.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with clogged drains is never fun, but choosing the right method can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Traditional drain cleaning is great for small problems and quick fixes, while high-pressure jetting is best for deep, stubborn, or recurring clogs. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right option—and if you're in doubt, call Fast Trak Plumbing and Drain, a plumbing company in Commerce City, CO, to check things out.

Taking care of your pipes now means fewer headaches later. Whether it’s a quick snake or a full-power jetting, the right solution is out there—just make sure you’re using the one that fits your situation best.