Understanding the Difference Between Hydro Jetting and Rooters in Childersburg, AL

Traditional Rooter Machines

Rooters, or cable machines (also known as plumbing snakes), were invented in the 1930s as a solution for removing blockages from entire sewer pipes.

A rooter is designed with a rotating head attached to sharp blades. Inserted into the pipe, the rotating head spin to cut through tree roots, helping clear away debris. While this method is effective for cutting roots and dislodging items like rust and trash, it also has limitations. The force of the spinning blades can be difficult to control, which may end up scraping pipe walls unnecessarily.

Using Rooters Yourself: A Warning

Various plumbing snakes and augers are readily available for DIY drain unclogging. However, caution is advised—misusing them can lead to costly pipe damage. If you're noticing signs of clogging such as slow draining, backups, foul smells, or flooding, it’s wise to have the line inspected professionally with a sewer camera inspection before attempting any solutions.

Hydro-Jetting Machines

Hydro-jetters are designed to employ high-pressure water to flush debris and blockages in pipes. These machines consist of high-pressure hoses with specialized spray nozzles. Compared to rooters, hydro-jetters use water to clean pipes rather than physical force.

A hydro-jetter’s settings can be adjusted for water pressure and flow, providing precise control. Operators can adjust these settings for anything from gentle rinsing to intense cleaning. Studies show hydro-jetting to be 30-50% more efficient, these machines are excellent at cleaning. In addition, they are eco-friendly—using only water to clear out pipes.

How Hydro Jetting Works

Hydro-jetting is done through a cleanout, or an access point for technicians to work on the line. Water jets are used to blast away debris, grease, and even tree roots that cling to the walls of pipes. These high-pressure streams are capable of breaking up grease, solid waste, and other deposits. Often, jetters use 360-degree nozzles that allow for complete, thorough cleaning of pipe interiors. Depending on the severity of the clog, different nozzles and customized water pressure are selected to efficiently clear the problem.

Rooters vs. Hydro-Jetting: The Key Differences

In almost every way, hydro-jetters outperform rooters. Whereas rooters rely on physical cutting, jetters deliver a thorough clean by blasting away blockages. A significant benefit of jetting is its adjustability. The nozzles can be customized to fit different pipe sizes and settings. From sludge to tree roots, jetting is versatile enough to handle the job.

When Rooters are Sufficient

While hydro-jetting often provides the best results, sometimes a rooter is adequate. Rooters offer a more budget-friendly option and work well for unclogging simple obstructions. For straightforward clogs, caused by toys or debris, a rooter often suffices. However, because of its cutting design, rooters tends to struggle with grease and roots.

For grease or root-related issues, a hydro-jetter will provide a more complete clean. Using high-pressure water to scour and flush away, hydro-jetting is ideal for a complete pipe clean-out.

For residents of Childersburg, Alabama, Childersburg Plumbing Services specializes in both hydro-jetting and rooter services to ensure your pipes stay clear.

Give us a call now at (888) 860-0649 to request a free in-home estimate.