Water Jet vs Drain Snake: Which is Better for Clearing Drains?

Diving Into The Water Jet vs Drain Snake Debate

What is a Water Jet?

A water jetter is a petrol-powered machine that uses high-pressure water to clear blockages in drains and pipes. It features a specialised nozzle that ejects water at extremely high pressure, effectively dislodging and flushing out debris, grease, tree roots, and other obstructions.

Common uses include clearing grease and tree roots, cleaning sewer lines for both residential and commercial properties, and performing routine maintenance to prevent future blockages.

What is a Drain Snake?

A drain snake, also known as an electric eel or drain auger, is a traditional tool used for clearing clogs in pipes. It uses an electric motor to drive a rotating coil with a cutter head, which breaks up or retrieves clogs.

The tool is inserted into the drain and manoeuvred to remove hair, soap scum, and small objects from household drains and minor blockages in sinks, toilets, and showers. It is especially effective for narrow pipes and tight bends.

Pros and Cons of a Drain Snake vs Water Jet

Let’s dive into what makes each of these tools tick!

Advantages of Using a Drain Snake:

Budget-Friendly

Comparing a drain snake vs water jet, a drain snake is a cost-effective investment for plumbers, which allows them to tackle blocked drains with ease. By using these tools, plumbers can often offer you a more affordable service.

Fits into Tight Spots

Their compact design allows them to navigate through narrow or tricky spaces that other tools might struggle with.

Quieter Operation

Drain snakes generally operate with less noise compared to other methods, so you won’t have to worry about disturbing the peace too much.

Disadvantages of Using a Drain Snake

Potential for Pipe Damage

If not used carefully, drain snakes can be abrasive and may damage your pipes over time.

Slower Process

It can take quite a bit of time to clear a blockage, especially if it’s a stubborn one.

Debris Left Behind

Drain snakes often leave behind debris, which can lead to repeated blockages if not properly cleaned up.

Advantages of Using a Water Jetter

Versatile

Water jetters can handle all kinds of drains and pipes, including PVC, cast iron, and copper. They're pretty much the jack-of-all-trades when it comes to plumbing.

Speedy

They’re much faster at clearing blockages compared to traditional methods, which can be a real time-saver.

Cost-Effective for You

Although the device itself might be pricier, the faster results mean less time spent on the job, translating to potential savings for you.

Tackles Stubborn Blockages

Water jetters are highly effective at removing grease and tough clogs that other methods might leave behind.

Long Reach

They can clean up to 50 meters down a pipe, offering a superior range for those harder-to-reach spots.

Pipe-Friendly

Since they use high-pressure water, they’re generally safer for your pipes and fixtures.

Disadvantages of Using a Water Jetter

Higher Initial Cost

The upfront investment for a water jet vs drain snake is typically higher, which might be a consideration for some plumbers.

Which is Really Better for Clearing Blocked Drains: Electric Eel vs Water Jet?

When it comes to clearing blocked drains, electric eel vs water jet, each has their strengths, but water jetters generally lead the way. Water jetters work faster and are more powerful, allowing them to clear blockages more efficiently. Not only do they break up clogs, but they can also cut through and wash away tree roots and other stubborn obstructions. Unlike electric eels, which can only push blockages further down the line, water jetters remove them entirely.

However, it’s important to be cautious about the perceived power of electric eels. While they may appear effective, they often leave debris behind and may not handle tougher clogs as effectively as water jetters. Many older plumbing companies might still rely on electric eels, but water jetters represent newer, more advanced technology that can provide a safer and more efficient solution for your pipes.

Before and after shots of a heavily blocked pit of a carwash bay completely cleared using Eze-Flow Plumbing’s powerful water jetter.

Have Your Blocked Drains Taken Care of by Eze-Flow Plumbing Experts