Drain Rodding vs. High Pressure Jetting

A blocked drain is one of the biggest inconveniences for homeowners. While a blocked toilet may just need a little elbow grease and a plunger, sometimes a deeper look down your drain reveals a more serious underlying problem.

A build-up of grease, food waste, hair, and organic material may be one of the many reasons you’re dealing with a blocked drainage system. A drainage engineer can quickly identify the root cause and recommend the most effective solution.

Drain rodding and high-pressure water jetting are just two of the drain unblocking methods you'll come across — but how do they work?

What is drain rodding?

Drain rodding is a non-invasive technique that uses state-of-the-art equipment to navigate your pipes. By pushing, twisting, or breaking apart the blockage, a drainage engineer can dislodge any clogs, restoring your drains to optimal functionality.

This is a convenient technique when: 

• CCTV cameras cannot reach the blockage

• The clog is smaller or more localised

• The clog is closer to the access point; 

• Or when water jetting isn’t necessary 

Unfortunately, this method is ineffective when roots block your pipes, and it does have a limited range. However, your local drainage engineer will have the expertise to make the relevant call.

What is high pressure drain jetting? 

Drain jetting utilises a high-pressure stream of water to remove dirt, clogs, and even tree roots from your drainage pipes. At Clearpath Drainage, we use our  4000psi high-pressure jetting units to dislodge any blockage in a matter of minutes. This is a great technique if the problem has already been identified through CCTV surveys, and provides the necessary power to break down blockages or organic debris. 

Unlike drain rodding, which only removes the blockage, drain jetting can actually give your pipes a thorough cleaning, ensuring any accumulated grime is removed. 

Here’s why a drainage engineer may opt for high-pressure drain jetting: 

• It offers long-lasting results

• Periodic drain jetting can prevent minor blockages 

• An eco-friendly solution as it does not use chemical drain cleaners 

This can be a cost-effective method that allows you to save time, money, and save you from blocked drain headaches. 

Signs you need a drainage engineer

Who needs warning signs when the most obvious one is that your kitchen sink is blocked, right? However, drainage issues can develop slowly and overtime, with your plumbing system giving you a few warning signs that you should never ignore. 

Understanding these warning signs can help you protect your property and lower costs: 

Foul Smelling Odours: 

Whether it’s foul smells coming from your kitchen drain or around your home, it could signal it’s time to call your local drainage engineer. When grease, fats, oils, and food waste get stuck in your pipes, it can start to decompose. This can cause the foul smells you're noticing and indicate a blockage that needs professional attention. 

Recurring Blockages:

If you find yourself grabbing the plunger every few days, it may be time to have a professional assess the situation. Repeated clogs may indicate that a root system has invaded your pipes, there’s a blockage further down your system, or that there may be a cracked or misaligned pipe. Recurring blockages can put strain on your plumbing system and could cost you more in the long run. The best option is to avoid temporary fixes and speak to a professional. 

Slow Draining Water: 

Slow draining water can be frustrating, but it can actually be an early warning sign that you may be dealing with a blockage. Grease, soap scum, food waste, hair and other debris can gradually build up inside your pipes, restricting water flow. Ignoring the problem may lead to more serious issues down the line, so it's important to pay attention to slow-draining water and address the problem as soon as possible.

The takeaway 

While DIY unblocking methods are a good start, sometimes you need something with a little more oomph. If you’re struggling with a blocked drain, high-pressure drain jetting or drain rodding can be great solutions to remove stubborn blockages and restore proper water flow. 

At Clearpath Drainage, we use only the best quality methods and equipment to ensure your pipes are flowing again. Whether you’re struggling with a blocked toilet or multiple blocked drains, we work with you to find a solution that suits your needs. 

Struggling with a blocked drain in Southampton? Get in touch with us today.