If you’ve ever encountered a blocked drain, chances are you’ve heard the terms “clearing a pipe” and “snaking an inch” interchangeably. Although both are effective in clearing out blocked drains or pipes, they can actually be quite different. This article will discuss the differences in snaking and clearing a drain and explain when each method is best.
Snaking a Line
To unclog a pipe, you will need a drain snake (or plumbing snake) to do the job. The snake is a flexible, coiled metal that is inserted into the pipes and then rotated to clear the blockage. When the snake rotates, it grabs the blockage and pulls it from the pipe.
For clearing blocked toilets, sinks and tubs, you can use a line to nip a line. This method is particularly useful for clearing solid clogs, such as soap, hair, and toilet paper. It is also an inexpensive and quick way to remove clogs.
But, sometimes snaking a blockage is not enough. The blockage may be caused by more stubborn materials, such as tree roots or grease buildup. In these cases, snaking may prove ineffective. Hydro jetting might be needed in these situations.
Clearing a line
To clear a line, you will need a high-pressure waterjet to remove any blockages. The water jet is usually attached to a flexible tube that can be inserted into a pipe. Once the hose is attached, water is forced into the nozzle at high pressure. This breaks up and flushes away any clogs.
Clearing a line is more powerful than snaking, and is used often for stubborn blockages. It’s particularly useful for clearing clogs that are caused by tree roots or grease. You can also prevent blockages from occurring by cleaning out the inside of the pipes.
However, clearing a line takes more time and is more expensive than snaking. It requires more specialized equipment, training, and is not always accessible by all plumbers.
When to use each method
Both clearing a path and snaking one have their benefits and disadvantages. It all depends on what the obstruction is and how you are doing it. For simple clogs such as those caused by soap or hair, snaking is a good option. You can also use snaking to clear minor clogs quickly and easily.
Clearing a line is a great option for stubborn clogs such as those caused by grease, tree roots and other difficult materials. You can also clear a line if snaking was ineffective.
Summary
There are two ways to get rid of blockages in pipes or drains. Both are efficient, but each method is best for specific types of clogs. Snaking can be used to quickly and inexpensively remove simple clogs from solid materials. Clearing, however, is a more powerful and efficient method to clear stubborn blockages such as tree roots, grease, or other difficult materials. You can decide which method suits your needs by understanding the differences.