Plumbing insights
Hydro-Jetting vs. Snaking: Which Drain Cleaning Method Works Best?
Clogged drains in Montreal behave differently depending on where you live or work. Grease buildup in Old Montreal restaurants, tree roots in the West Island, and condo kitchen backups each demand the right clearing method. Deboucherie Montreal Plumbing relies on both mechanical snaking and hydro-jetting because each tool shines in specific situations.
Quick comparison at a glance
| Scenario | Snaking | Hydro-jetting |
|---|---|---|
| Slow sink or tub drain | Recommended for localized clogs | Often unnecessary |
| Heavy grease buildup | Creates temporary relief | Best choice; scours the entire line |
| Root intrusion in outdoor lines | Re-establishes flow after cutting roots | Follow-up rinse after cabling |
| Preventive maintenance plans | Limited long-term benefit | Keeps high-use drains performing |
When a drain snake wins the day
- Tight spaces: The cable navigates hair traps, p-traps, and condo stacks where large equipment cannot reach.
- Budget-friendly fixes: Quick to deploy and perfect for resolving an isolated clog during a service call.
- Minimal water usage: Ideal in buildings where water access is restricted or closely metered.
Plumber tip: After a successful snaking service, run hot water mixed with a degreasing agent to flush loosened debris before it settles again.
Why hydro-jetting delivers a deeper clean
Hydro-jetting sends a high-pressure water stream through the entire line, stripping away grease, mineral scale, and biofilm rather than just punching a hole. It is our go-to solution for:
- Commercial kitchens that see daily grease discharge.
- Long horizontal runs in multiplexes where buildup happens far from access points.
- Recurring clogs that return within weeks of traditional cabling.
Because hydro-jetting polishes the interior of the pipe, drains stay clear longer and odors disappear.
Combine both for long-term flow
Complex jobs often call for a hybrid approach:
- Snake first to re-establish flow and identify obstructions.
- Hydro-jet next to remove whatever the cable left behind.
- Finish with a camera inspection so you know the exact condition of the line and have documentation for insurance adjusters or condo boards.
When to call us
- You have a drain that slows down again within a few weeks.
- Kitchen prep areas are critical to your business and downtime is costly.
- You want a proactive maintenance plan before the busy season.
Book a visit and we will match the right method to your building. Request a drain assessment and we will provide a tailored recommendation in English or French.