Advantages of a drain jetter over a plumbers eel
We all know how important it is to have a fully functioning plumbing system, not only in your home but also for businesses. It's not out of the question for something to go wrong with your plumbing system and one of the most common problem is a blockage in the sewer line or drains. In the event of this happening you will notice that your water is draining slowly down your sinks, you might also notice unpleasant odours coming from your drains, or gurgly noises coming from your toilet, These are a few telltale signs you have a blockage somewhere that needs to be addressed. Thankfully there are plumbing tools that can efficiently and thoroughly get to the cause of the problem and clear the issue with a minimum of fuss. The two commonly used tools for unblocking drains are a drain jetter and plumber's eels (also known as drain snakes or augers). Both tools are super effective and serve the same purpose and that is to remove debris and obstructions from pipes and restore proper water flow.
Let's look at the differences between a drain jetter and a plumber's eel:
Drain jetters have been around for decades and have a very good track record. They offer several distinct advantages over plumber's eels, making them a preferred choice for many plumbing professionals and homeowners. Their stand-out features include superior cleaning power, versatility, and efficiency while maintaining a gentle approach to pipes. Depending on the specific plumbing needs and challenges, a drain jetter might be the preferred choice for a thorough effective, and successful resolution.
1. Superior Cleaning Power
Drain jetters utilize high-pressure water streams to dislodge and flush away debris, grease, and other obstructions from your sewer line or pipes. The force of the water is often strong enough to break up stubborn clogs, including tree roots and mineral buildup. Whereas a plumber's eel relies on mechanical twisting and pushing to break through blockages, which may not be as effective for particularly tough blockages.
2. Versatility
Drain jetters are available in various sizes and configurations, allowing them to be used on a wide range of pipe diameters and types. They can tackle everything from small residential drains to large commercial sewer lines. Plumber's eels, are also available in different sizes but may have limitations when it comes to navigating complex pipe layouts or larger-diameter pipes.
3. Thorough Cleaning
The high-pressure water used by drain jetters not only removes blockages but also thoroughly cleans the interior walls of pipes. This helps prevent future blockages by reducing the buildup of residue, grease, and other materials that can accumulate over time. A drain jetter is a perfect choice for cleaning grease traps. Plumber's eels primarily break up and remove the substance that is causing the clog, but they may leave behind some residue, increasing the likelihood of recurrent blockages.
4. Reduced Risk of Pipe Damage
Drain jetters are less likely to cause damage to pipes compared to plumber's eels. The high-pressure water used by jetters is gentler on the pipe walls, minimising the risk of abrasion or cracking. Plumber's eels, especially when not used correctly, can potentially damage pipes, leading to costly repairs.
5. Efficient Removal of Tree Roots
Tree roots infiltrating sewer lines are a common cause of blockages. Drain jetters are particularly effective at cutting and removing tree roots from pipes due to their powerful water jets. Plumber's eels might struggle with cutting through stubborn root masses, and their removal might not be as complete.
6. Time Efficiency
The high-pressure nature of drain jetters often allows for quicker clearance of clogs and more efficient drain cleaning compared to the more labor-intensive process of using plumber's eels. This efficiency can be especially valuable in commercial settings where downtime needs to be minimised.
7. Hygiene and Safety
Using a drain jetter minimises the need for physical contact with whatever is causing the blockage and wastewater, which can be more hygienic and safer for plumbers and homeowners alike. Plumber's eels often require direct manipulation and handling of the clog, which can be unpleasant and pose health risks.
8. Environmentally Friendly
Drain jetters primarily use water as the cleaning agent, making them an environmentally friendly option. Plumber's eels might involve the use of harsh chemicals to break down clogs, which can have negative environmental impacts.
For all your plumbing questions or needs call Leak Free Plumbing Solutions on 0422 392 447 to speak to one of our licensed plumbers for professional advice and help. Alternatively, complete our online enquiry form today.