Drain Jetting Vs. Traditional Cleaning: Which Method Is Best for Your Property?

 

We’ve all been there, water pooling in a sink, a slow-draining shower, or the dread of a blocked drain that just won’t clear. These problems can feel like everyday annoyances until they balloon into something far more serious. At BN Drainage, with over 40 years of experience in unblocking and maintaining drains throughout Bromley and the South-East, we understand how stressful and disruptive drainage issues can be. 

If you’re wondering whether to call us for drain jetting vs. traditional cleaning, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to understand which method suits your property best and when to choose one over the other. If you would like to speak with our expert team immediately, please call 0800 999 1769 / 0203 337 0349, or email info@bndrainageltd.com. 

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What Is Drain Jetting? 

High-pressure water jetting (also known as hydro jetting) utilises a powerful stream of water that reaches up to 4,000 psi to blast through blockages such as grease, roots, scale, and tissue. 

Our trained engineers are certified by the Water Jetting Association, ensuring that the job is done safely and effectively. 

Benefits Of Drain Jetting 

  • Thorough Cleaning: Not just poking a hole, it scours the entire pipe surface, removing buildup for longer-term performance. 
  • Non-Invasive: There’s no need to dig up your pipes. 
  • Eco-Friendly: Uses only water, with no harsh chemicals needed.  
  • Versatility: Ideal for stubborn blockages from fat, roots, or mineral scale. 

What Is Traditional Drain Cleaning? 

Traditional cleaning typically involves using drain rods (“rodding”) or a plumbing snake (an auger) to break through a blockage mechanically. These tools push or twist through the obstruction to restore flow. 

Advantages Of Traditional Cleaning 

  • Cost-Effective: For straightforward blockages near the access point, rodding can be quicker and more cost-effective. 
  • Minimal Setup: Portable rods or snakes are simple to deploy. 
  • Suitable for Accessible Blockages: Ideal when blockages are near inspection points or access chambers. 

Drain Jetting Vs. Traditional Cleaning: Key Differences

1. Which Method Removes Debris More Thoroughly?

When it comes to drain jetting vs. traditional cleaning, jetting wins on cleanliness. Jetting flushes debris and scours the inside of pipes, whereas rodding may simply punch through the clog without removing all buildup.

2. Safety & Pipe Integrity

Hydro jetting, when done correctly, is safe and non-destructive. Our engineers are trained and certified to prevent damage to pipework. Traditional rodding, however, can occasionally damage older or fragile pipes if not done carefully.

3. Cost Over Time

While rodding is usually cheaper for a one-off call-out, frequent blockages may make jetting more cost-effective in the long run. Because jetting cleans more thoroughly, repeated issues are less likely to occur.

4. Environmental Impact

Jetting is more environmentally friendly than chemical cleaners because it relies solely on water. Traditional cleaning may sometimes encourage homeowners to use chemical agents, which can be harmful. 

Best Situations For Each Method 

  • Go for jetting when there are recurring blockages, fat or grease build-up, root intrusion, or scale. 
  • Traditional cleaning works well for simple, accessible clogs where cost or speed is a concern. 

Why BN Drainage Often Recommends Jetting

1. Proactive Maintenance With Jetting

As part of our regular drain maintenance service, we often use high-pressure water jetting to descale and clean pipework. This helps prevent future blockages, reduces the need for call-outs, and prolongs the life of your drainage system.

2. Tailored Solutions For Your Property

Our team isn’t pushy. We’ll carry out a CCTV survey if needed to inspect your drains, then decide whether jetting or rodding is the right choice. For complex or tree-root blockages, jetting is typically the safer and more effective option.

3. Qualified & Trusted Engineers

We’re not just any drainage company; our engineers are NEBOSH-trained, CHAS-accredited, and backed by 40+ years of experience. You can be confident that whether we’re jetting or rodding, the job is done professionally and safely. 

Conclusion 

When deciding between drain jetting and traditional cleaning, it ultimately comes down to the nature of the blockage, the condition of your pipes, and your long-term maintenance goals. At BN Drainage, we pride ourselves on offering the most effective and appropriate solution for your property, whether that means using high-pressure water jetting or a more traditional rodding approach. 

If you’re ready to restore flow, prevent future problems, and ensure your drainage system is in top condition, get in touch with us today.  

Call 0800 999 1769 / 0203 337 0349 or email info@bndrainageltd.com. We’re here 24/7 to help. 

FAQs 

Q1: How often should I get drain jetting done? 

It depends on usage and blockages, but for many properties, once every 12–24 months is ideal under our maintenance plan. 

Q2: Is drain jetting safe for old or fragile pipes? 

Yes, when done by trained engineers. Our team takes care to use the correct pressure and nozzles to avoid damage. 

Q3: Can traditional rodding remove tree roots? 

Not effectively. Rodding may break a root blockage, but jetting is usually better suited for root intrusion. 

Q4: Will jetting cure recurring blockages permanently? 

It provides a thorough clean and reduces the risk of return, but regular maintenance is key to long-term prevention. 

Q5: Do I need to prep my drains before jetting? 

Usually, no special preparation is needed. Our team will assess and conduct any necessary inspections before jetting. 

Q6: Can drain jetting remove grease and fat build-up more effectively than traditional cleaning? 

Yes. Jetting is highly effective at breaking down and flushing away grease, fat, and scale that rodding often cannot fully remove. 

Q7: Is drain jetting suitable for commercial properties with heavy usage? 

Absolutely. Jetting is ideal for restaurants, shops, and multi-unit buildings because it removes deep build-ups and helps prevent recurring blockages. 

 

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