Hydro Jetting vs. Snaking: What’s the Best Option for Your Clogged Drain?

Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing issues Seattle homeowners face. Whether it's a backed-up kitchen sink, a slow shower drain, or a gurgling toilet, clogs can disrupt your day and point to bigger issues down the line.

When it comes to clearing a drain, two of the most popular solutions are snaking and hydro jetting. But which one is right for your situation?

At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we use both methods depending on the nature of the clog. Here’s a breakdown of how each one works—and when to use them.

What Is Drain Snaking?

Snaking involves using a long, flexible metal cable (often with a rotating head) that is inserted into the drain to break through or pull out a clog. It’s one of the oldest and most commonly used methods to handle minor drain issues.

Snaking is great for simple, localized clogs like hair in bathroom drains, food particles in kitchen sinks, or minor obstructions in toilets or tubs. It’s also a safer choice for homes with older or more fragile plumbing systems.

While snaking is quick and affordable, it doesn’t always remove everything in the pipe. It can punch through a clog, but might leave behind debris or buildup on the pipe walls—which can lead to more clogs down the road.

What Is Hydro Jetting?

Hydro jetting is a more powerful solution that uses high-pressure water—sometimes up to 4,000 PSI—to completely clear out a drain or sewer line. It doesn’t just break through clogs; it washes away grease, sludge, scale buildup, and even small tree roots.

This method is ideal for tougher jobs, like recurring clogs, heavy grease buildup, or issues in sewer lines. It’s commonly used in commercial kitchens, but it’s just as effective for residential plumbing systems that need a deep clean.

Because hydro jetting is so thorough, it’s often the go-to choice when a homeowner wants to restore full flow and long-term performance to their pipes. However, it may not be suitable for very old or damaged pipes. We always inspect the line first to ensure it’s safe to proceed.

So, Which One Should You Use?

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

If it’s your first time dealing with a clog—especially a small one—snaking is often a quick and effective fix. It’s great for clearing localized blockages and getting things flowing again fast.

If you’ve been dealing with recurring clogs, slow drains that keep coming back, or suspect issues like grease, sludge, or tree roots, hydro jetting is likely the better option. It’s more powerful, more thorough, and can prevent future problems by cleaning the entire pipe interior.

Still unsure? Don’t worry—we’re here to help. Our team will assess the issue and recommend the safest, most effective approach based on your home’s specific plumbing situation.

Seattle’s Trusted Drain Cleaning Pros

Whether you need a simple snaking service or a full hydro jetting job, we’ve got the experience and tools to get it done right. At Jim Dandy Sewer & Plumbing, we’ve been keeping Seattle drains flowing since 1908—and we’re ready to help you, too.

📱 Dealing with a stubborn clog? Contact us today for a professional drain evaluation and personalized service.