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October 28, 2024

Hydro-Jetting vs. Traditional Drain Cleaning: Which is Right for Your Home?

Clean drains are crucial in any home or business, but especially in our rural towns where residents rely heavily on septic systems. A clogged drain in a septic system can quickly lead to terrible odors, backed-up sewage, and flooded drain fields. Don’t wait until your home becomes uninhabitable, or your business comes to a halt! Power Rooter offers both traditional and hydro-jetting drain cleaning solutions to keep life and business running smoothly.
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What Are Some Methods of Traditional Drain Cleaning?

Typical DIY methods of drain cleaning traditionally include various approaches: pouring boiling water down the drain, chemical drain cleaners, manipulating a stretched-out metal hanger, employing a 25 ft snake from the local hardware store, or utilizing household tools like needle-nose pliers and screwdrivers.

Resourceful home and business owners often get creative to keep things moving. We’ve seen it all, and while some of these methods provide temporary relief, we offer more effective solutions. 
 

Professional Traditional Drain Cleaning

Septic contractors offer traditional methods of drain cleaning that involve a professional-grade plumber’s snake also known as a drain auger. At 100 feet long, this flexible metal coil is up to four times longer than consumer models and is expertly inserted into the drain to break up and remove blockages. 
 

Drain Auger Benefits:

  • Effective for minor clogs or blockages, especially near the drain’s surface
  • Often less expensive than hydro-jetting
  • Quick solution for small obstructions
  • Suitable for older or fragile plumbing systems


Drain Auger Limitations:

  • May only create a temporary hole through the clog
  • Can be ineffective against tough clogs 
  • Might push buildup deeper within the pipes
  • Potential for pipe damage if misused

What is Hydro-Jetting?

Hydro-jetting, also known as water jetting, sewer jetting, or pipe jetting is the use of high-pressure water to thoroughly clean your pipes. This method goes beyond simply clearing blockages—it provides a comprehensive cleaning of your sewer pipes.
 

How Does Hydro-Jetting Work?

Hydro-jetting involves a specialized hose with a high-pressure nozzle inserted into the drain. Water is then blasted through the pipes at high pressure (approximately 1,500 psi). Finally, the powerful water stream breaks up and flushes away:
  • Stubborn clogs
  • Sidewall buildup
  • Sources of odors
  • Debris like baby wipes
  • Accumulated grease
  • Even invasive tree roots
 

Benefits of Hydro-Jetting: 

  • Provides thorough cleaning of the entire pipe
  • Removes all debris and buildup
  • Effectively tackles tough clogs, including grease and mineral deposits
  • Environmentally friendly, using only water
  • Helps prevent future clogs through comprehensive cleaning
 

Limitations of Hydro-Jetting: 

  • Higher cost compared to traditional methods
  • Requires professional equipment and expertise
  • May be too intense for older or damaged pipes

Environmental Considerations

Impact of Different Cleaning Methods


Traditional chemical cleaners:
Warning: Chemical drain cleaners,
though marketed as a quick solution, can cause more harm than good. These liquid or gel substances are designed to dissolve blockages rather than remove them. Even when they successfully dissolve a clog, they can:  
  • Contain harsh chemicals harmful to ecosystems
  • Contaminate groundwater
  • Damage beneficial bacteria in septic systems
  • Often come in non-recyclable plastic containers

For these reasons, we strongly advise against using chemical drain cleaners.

Mechanical methods (snaking): 
  • No chemical impact
  • Minimal water usage
  • May require multiple attempts, using more energy
  • Can dislodge debris that ends up in water systems

Hydro-jetting:
  • Uses only water, no harmful chemicals
  • More efficient, often requiring just one treatment
  • Higher water usage compensated by longer-lasting results
  • Prevents future buildup, reducing need for repeated cleanings


Eco-Friendly Maintenance Practices 

We recommend and practice regular maintenance to prevent major clogs and reduce the need for intensive cleaning including:

1.Installation of drain strainers to catch debris before it enters pipes

2. Natural cleaning methods using: hot water flushes, biodegradable enzymatic cleaners, and vinegar and baking soda treatments

Making the Right Choice for Drain Cleaning

When to Snake a Drain

Traditional tactics like drain augers are a great solution when dealing with minor clogs near the drain or even surface-level blockages. Even a home-use 25-foot drain snake is a powerful DIY tool for regular maintenance or as a quick fix for small problems as long as it is used correctly.

Our experts are equipped with professional augers that are suitable for older plumbing systems that might otherwise crumble under the high-pressure stream of a hydrojet cleaning. 
 

When to Choose Hydro-Jetting

Don’t be discouraged by lingering odors or tough, stubborn clogs that a drain snake just can't clear. When homes or businesses face frequent clogs, grease buildup, or tree roots invading the pipes, hydro-jetting can get in and solve the problem. We recommend jetting services when you need a thorough cleaning that solves current issues and prevents future problems, especially in commercial and high-use properties. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How much do different drain cleaning methods cost? 

  • Traditional drain snaking typically costs between $100-$250, depending on the severity of the clog and accessibility.
  • Hydro-jetting services usually range from $350-$600, reflecting the more thorough cleaning and specialized equipment required.
  • Emergency services may incur additional charges, but we always provide upfront pricing.
 

How long do drain cleaning procedures take? 

  • Simple drain snaking usually takes 30-60 minutes.
  • Hydro-jetting can take 1-2 hours for thorough cleaning.
  • Inspection and setup time may add 15-30 minutes to either service.
  • More complex issues, like root removal, may require additional time.
 

What about emergency services? 

We understand that drain emergencies don't wait for business hours:
  • 24/7 emergency service availability
  • Typical response time of 1-2 hours
  • Emergency service fee applies outside regular hours
  • Priority scheduling for water backup situations

Drain Cleaning Experts 

The experts at Power Rooter will assess your septic system to find the blockage and determine what type of clog you are dealing with. We will recommend the most appropriate solution based on:

  • Specific needs
  • Budget considerations
  • System condition

We can also: 


Schedule a drain inspection or cleaning service with Power Rooter by calling 386-938-1188 today to ensure your plumbing is in top shape. We serve Valdosta, Georgia, Hamilton County, Florida, and all nearby cities.

All services may not be available in all areas, please call 386-938-1188 for more information