Snakes…No, Not That Kind
Snaking your septic lines is one of the most common methods of freeing up hard clogs. It utilizes a plumbing auger, also known as a “plumber snake.” This tool uses a long, flexible metal tube with a cable inside. At the end of the cable is some form of auger that will puncture through a clog and break up any of the waste.
This tube is inserted into the drain and either hand-cranked or pumped in using an electric motor. This auger, combined with the twisting, pushing, and pulling, should allow you to catch a clog and pull it out of the drain.
Pros of Using a Drain Snake
- Effective Clog Removal: Drain snakes are highly effective in breaking up and removing tough clogs from drains and pipes.
- Cost-Effective: Investing in a drain snake can save money on plumbing services in the long run, as it allows for repeated use and eliminates the need for professional assistance for minor clogs.
- Environmentally Friendly: Using a drain snake is an eco-friendly option compared to chemical drain cleaners, as it does not involve the use of harmful chemicals.
- Prevents Pipe Damage: Drain snakes are gentle on pipes and less likely to cause damage compared to more aggressive unclogging methods.
- DIY-Friendly: Drain snakes are relatively easy to use, making them accessible to homeowners for DIY plumbing maintenance.
Cons of Using a Drain Snake
- Limited Reach: Drain snakes may have limitations in reaching deep or complex clogs within the plumbing system, requiring professional assistance for more complex issues.
- Manual Labor: Using a drain snake involves manual effort, which can be physically demanding, especially for extensive or persistent clogs.
- Requires Skill: While generally user-friendly, operating a drain snake effectively may require some skill and practice to achieve optimal results.
- Potential Mess: Clearing a drain using a snake may result in some mess, such as dislodged debris and water splatter, which requires cleaning up afterward.
- Risk of Splatter: There is a risk of water or debris splattering during the process, which can be unpleasant and potentially unhygienic.
- Not Suitable for All Clogs: Drain snakes may not be effective for all types of clogs, especially those caused by solid objects or major blockages, necessitating alternative solutions.
- Limited Applicability: Depending on the type of drain snake, it may not be suitable for certain types of plumbing, restricting its use in certain situations.
Hydro Jetting
Of all of the methods to clean out a clog, hydro jetting is one of our favorites. While there are a few applications where this is not recommended, such as in older homes with brittle pipes, hydro jetting is extremely effective.
Hydro jetting uses a stream of water at extremely high pressure to force out clogs. This pressure can reach between 3,000 PSI to as high as 8,000 PSI. Because of the extreme pressure, hydro jetting should only be done by professionals.
Pros of Hydro Jetting
- Highly Effective Cleaning: Hydro jetting is highly effective in thoroughly cleaning and clearing obstructions from drains and sewer lines, including grease, debris, roots, and mineral buildup.
- Powerful Cleaning Action: The high-pressure water jet used in hydro jetting can reach and clean even hard-to-reach areas, ensuring a comprehensive cleaning of the entire plumbing system.
- Safe for Pipes: Hydro jetting is generally safe for pipes, as it uses only water to clean and does not involve the use of harsh chemicals that may potentially damage the plumbing.
- Prevents Future Clogs: Hydro jetting can help prevent future clogs by completely removing debris and buildup that could contribute to blockages over time.
- Versatile: Hydro jetting can be used in various plumbing systems, including residential, commercial, and industrial, making it a versatile solution for different needs.
- Quick and Efficient: Hydro jetting is a fast and efficient method, capable of clearing clogs and cleaning pipes in a relatively short amount of time.
- Long-Term Solution: Due to its thorough cleaning, hydro jetting provides a long-term solution for drain and sewer line maintenance, reducing the need for frequent cleanings.
Cons of Hydro Jetting
- Requires Professional Expertise: Hydro jetting requires specialized equipment and training, making it essential to hire a professional plumber or technician to perform the procedure.
- Potential Pipe Damage: If not performed by a skilled professional, hydro jetting can potentially damage old or fragile pipes, leading to costly repairs.
- Cost: The upfront cost of hydro jetting can be higher compared to other drain cleaning methods, making it a more significant investment for homeowners or businesses.
- Water Consumption: Hydro jetting utilizes a significant amount of water to generate the necessary pressure, which could be a concern in regions facing water scarcity or restrictions.
- Not Suitable for All Pipes: Hydro jetting may not be suitable for all types of plumbing systems, particularly those with delicate or deteriorating pipes.
- Safety Precautions Required: Due to the high-pressure water involved, safety precautions are crucial to prevent injuries or accidents during the hydro jetting process.
Which One Should I Choose, Hydro Jetting or Snaking?
While both methods are highly effective ways to remove clogs from your septic or sewer lines, one stands tall above the other. Hydro jetting is, in our opinion, the superior method as it is much more powerful. This versatile method not only removes clogs, but also reduces any natural build-up of grease and other materials. Additionally, there are very few instances where hydro jetting doesn’t work.
Call the Pros at Viking Environmental and Septic Services
Contact us if there is a blockage or a problem with debris in your line. We have a group of qualified experts ready to fix your sewer line problems. Our coverage area includes the counties of Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, McDowell, Transylvania, Polk, and Yancey.