When repairing your septic system, there are many mistakes that you want to avoid to ensure that your plumbing remains healthy. Your goal as a septic tank owner should be to make sure that your system is constantly maintained to help guarantee that your system is in tip-top shape. Even when you keep up with maintaining your septic system, there is bound to be a clog in your drain sooner or later. One clog is simple enough but what if multiple drains in your household are backed up? In these situations, normal maintenance is insufficient and you must use more unconventional methods. Of the multiple options to consider when fixing these problems, the two most popular are snaking and hydro jetting.

What is Snaking?

Snaking involves using a plumbing snake to get rid of a clog by pulling, pushing, or destroying the clog entirely to restore waterflow. The snake’s design consists of a long flexible wire with a hook or a blade at the end. Some plumbing snakes are cranked through your pipes by hand, while others are operated with a motor which creates more power. Snaking is usually the first method septic experts will recommend when trying to remove a clog but it is not the best option in every situation. Plumbing snakes are used for a specific clog in a pipe and not for cleaning. When the blockage is found between your home and your septic system, running a snake towards the tank risks damaging the inside of it which can then lead to costly repairs. Plumbing snakes are best suited for when your system has a specific block or clog that can be easily located.

What is Hydro Jetting?

While snaking is best suited for clogs that are easily located, hydrojetting is best for when the clog isn’t fully removed or can’t be found. Hydro jetting uses a high-pressure stream of water that goes through your pipes and drains. Because it can go through your entire plumbing system, it’s a great way to fully clean all of your pipes. It’s also a great way to give your septic system a complete overhaul if it hasn’t been properly maintained. Hydro jetting has multiple advantages. Its main advantages are its power and overall ability to fully erase the hardest clogs like tree roots. Hydro jetting is much more expensive than snaking but it does more than remove clogs. The pressure can blast through any build up along the pipes of your plumbing or septic system. Take care, as this same pressure can also damage your system if not handled carefully.

Snaking and hydro jetting can both be used for clogs in your septic system. While advantages and disadvantages exist with both methods, you need to make sure you’re choosing the right one for your septic system. If you have any questions about snaking or hydro jetting don’t be afraid to contact us. At Maxx’s Products, our experts are more than qualified to assist you!