From Roots to Grease: What Sewer Jetting Removes That Snaking Can’t
From Roots to Grease: What Sewer Jetting Removes That Snaking Can’t
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Clogs come in all shapes and sizes—from grease-packed kitchen pipes to tree root invasions that choke off your main sewer line. While snaking is a common first response to clogs, it simply doesn’t have the power or precision to tackle the toughest blockages. This is where sewer jetting excels. With high-pressure water and advanced nozzle technology, hydro jetting clears what other tools leave behind.
Why Snaking Falls Short A plumbing snake, or auger, is designed to break through basic clogs like hairballs or small accumulations. It drills a hole through the blockage to restore minimal flow, but it doesn’t clean the pipe walls. Grease, mineral buildup, and invasive roots remain, growing again until you’re facing the same issue.
Sewer jetting, on the other hand, uses water at up to 8,000 PSI to scrub pipe interiors and completely dislodge obstructions. It’s more thorough, more permanent, and ideal for long-term plumbing health.
Stubborn Blockages That Sewer Jetting Eliminates
1. Grease Buildup: Kitchen drains often clog from cooking oils, fats, and soap scum. Jetting emulsifies and flushes away residue.
2. Tree Roots: Roots sneak into pipes through tiny cracks. Jetting with root-cutting nozzles blasts through these blockages without excavation.
3. Scale and Mineral Deposits: Hard water leaves behind deposits that narrow pipe flow. Jetting scrapes them clean.
4. Construction Debris: Sand, dirt, and other debris from renovations or settling can block flow. Jetting clears it out.
How Sewer Jetting Works
• Assessment: A video camera inspects the line to locate the problem.
• Setup: The hydro jetting machine is attached to your plumbing via a cleanout.
• Cleaning: The nozzle propels itself through the pipe, blasting 360-degree water jets.
• Rinse and Restore: The line is flushed, and another camera pass confirms it’s fully cleared.
Why Tree Roots Are a Bigger Problem Than You Think Tree roots are a leading cause of sewer line damage. Even a hairline crack in the pipe can attract roots seeking moisture. Once inside, they grow rapidly, trapping grease, debris, and waste. Over time, they can crack or collapse the pipe entirely. Sewer jetting cuts through these roots and flushes them away without digging up your yard.
Comparing Snaking to Jetting
Method Snaking Sewer Jetting
Power Low – punches through clogs High – removes clogs completely
Pipe Cleaning Minimal surface cleaning Full 360-degree pipe scrubbing
Cost Lower upfront Higher value over time
Effectiveness Temporary relief Long-lasting solution
When to Choose Jetting Over Snaking
• You’ve had repeated clogs in the same line
• The blockage is caused by grease, roots, or buildup
• Snaking has already failed to solve the problem
• Your plumbing system hasn’t been cleaned in years
Is It Safe for All Pipes? Hydro jetting is safe for most modern plumbing systems. Older clay or fragile cast-iron lines may need a pre-inspection. If jetting is not appropriate, your plumber will suggest alternatives like pipe bursting or trenchless relining.
Final Thoughts If your drains are slow or backing up and basic snaking hasn’t helped, it’s time for a more advanced solution. Sewer jetting clears the toughest blockages, from tree roots to layers of hardened grease. It restores full flow, extends get more info your pipe lifespan, and gives you peace of mind that the job is done right.
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