Clogged drains are a nightmare. Slow drainage, foul odors, and water backing up are all signs that your pipes need attention. But when it comes to clearing out the mess, what’s the best method? Should you go for traditional drain cleaning or opt for hydrojetting services?
Understanding the difference can help you choose the most effective and long-lasting solution for your home or business. So, in the clash between hydro jetting vs. traditional drain cleaning which one should you choose? Let’s find out.
Traditional Drain Cleaning: What It Does (and Doesn’t) Do
Traditional drain cleaning methods usually involve a plumbing snake (also called an auger) or chemical drain cleaners. While these techniques can be effective, they come with limitations.
How Traditional Drain Cleaning Works
- Drain Snaking– A long, flexible metal cable with a corkscrew tip is inserted into the drain to break apart blockages.
- Chemical Cleaners– Harsh chemicals dissolve clogs, but they can also erode pipes over time.
Pros of Traditional Drain Cleaning
- Effective for minor clogs and soft blockages
- Budget-friendly and quick
- This can be done without professional help (in some cases)
Cons of Traditional Drain Cleaning
- Doesn’t completely clear buildup – it just punches a hole through it
- Can damage older pipes, especially with chemical cleaners
- Not a long-term solution for frequent clogs
If you have a simple clog from hair or food debris, traditional drain cleaning might work. But if your pipes clog regularly or have years of buildup, it may not be enough.
Hydro Jetting: The Deep Clean Your Pipes Need
Hydrojetting is a high-pressure drain cleaning technique that uses water to blast away blockages. A specialized hose with a rotating nozzle pushes out water at pressures of 3,000 to 4,000 PSI, strong enough to remove grease, sludge, mineral deposits, and even tree roots.
How Hydro Jetting Works
- A plumbing contractor inserts a high-pressure hose into the drain.
- Water jets out in multiple directions, clearing everything in its path.
- The force of the water scrubs the inside of the pipes, removing buildup entirely.
Pros of Hydro Jetting
- Thoroughly cleans pipes, not just clearing blockages but preventing future ones.
- Eco-friendly plumbing solution – no harsh chemicals involved
- Safe for most pipes when done by professionals
- Can remove tree roots and tough grease buildup
Cons of Hydro Jetting
- Costs more than traditional drain cleaningupfront
- Not recommended for extremely old or fragile pipes
- Requires a professional plumbing contractor to perform safely
Hydrojetting is ideal for homes or businesses dealing with recurring clogs, slow drainage, or stubborn blockages that a regular snake can’t fix.
Hydro Jetting vs. Traditional Drain Cleaning: Which Should You Choose?
- Best for: Traditional drain cleaningworks for minor clogs and quick fixes, while hydrojetting is better for heavy buildup and frequent blockages.
- Effectiveness: Snaking removes blockages but may leave residue behind, whereas hydrojetting completely clears pipes.

- Cost: Traditional methods have a lower upfront cost, but hydrojetting lasts longer, reducing future expenses.
- Eco-Friendliness: Chemical cleaners used in traditional drain cleaningcan harm pipes and the environment while hydrojetting only uses water.
- Pipe Safety: Snaking can damage older pipes if not done carefully. Hydrojetting is safe for most pipes but may not be suitable for extremely fragile ones.
Contact Our Experts For Professional Drain Cleaning!
Don’t let clogged pipes disrupt your home or business. Whether you need emergency drain unclogging or a long-term solution like hydro jetting services, J&B Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Service’s team in Lindenhurst, NY, and the surrounding areas of Long Island is ready to help. We’ll assess your situation and provide the best, safest option to get your drains flowing smoothly again.
Contact us today for expert drain cleaning services!