The two main clearing methods
Cable machine (snake)
- A rotating steel cable with a cutting head
- Punches through blockages and cuts roots
- Opens a path, may leave buildup on the walls
- Widely used for first-call clearing
Hydro jetting
- A hose with a nozzle spraying high-pressure water
- Scours grease, scale and fine roots from the walls
- Leaves the pipe cleaner for a camera inspection
- Needs a pipe sound enough to take the pressure
Why the pipe's condition matters
A cable opens a channel through whatever is blocking the line. It is often the fastest way to get water moving during a backup. The trade-off is that roots and grease can remain stuck to the pipe walls, so the line may narrow again sooner.
Jetting cleans more thoroughly, which is why it is often used before lining or before a detailed camera inspection. But in a badly cracked clay line or thin, corroded cast iron, high-pressure water can worsen existing damage. Many plumbers camera a line before jetting it for that reason.
Which one fits?
- IfSewage is backing up now and the line has not been inspectedThenA cable is commonly used to restore flow, followed by a camera inspection.
- IfThe camera shows grease or scale narrowing an otherwise sound pipeThenJetting may clean it more completely.
- IfThe line is being prepared for liningThenJetting or mechanical cleaning is usually required so the liner bonds to clean pipe.
- IfThe footage shows open cracks, a collapse or a severe offsetThenAggressive clearing may not be advisable; repair planning comes first.
Before you approve clearing
- Ask which method will be used and why
- Ask whether a camera inspection is included or separate
- Ask what happens if the cable or nozzle gets stuck in the line
- Ask what the plumber found on the head when it came back
- Get the work and price in writing before it starts
Questions to ask
- Is my pipe in good enough shape for jetting?
- Did the cable reach the main, or stop somewhere?
- How often would you expect this line to need clearing if we do nothing else?
- Can you run the camera now while the line is open?
Common questions
Is hydro jetting better than snaking?
Neither is better in every case. Jetting cleans more thoroughly; a cable is often safer on fragile pipe and quicker in an emergency.
Can jetting damage my pipe?
It can worsen pipe that is already badly cracked or deteriorated, which is why an inspection before jetting is common.
How often should a sewer line be cleared?
A sound line may never need it. A line with roots or a sag may need it regularly until it is repaired.
General information for Whittier, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.