Why we use water jets and not cable machines to clear drains

Why water jet machines are the best way to clear your drain

The plumbing industry has come a long way in the past 10 years and drain technology has been leading the pack in terms of new tools and devices to help clear drains and also keep them cleared once the drain is open. In the olden days, the only real tool for cleaning drains was a cable drain machine (electric drain eel). These would come in various sizes and brands but the main one most plumbers would use would be a K1500 made by Rigid. They were a robust, relatively inexpensive, and reliable go-to tool for clearing and removing blockages from domestic and commercial drains.

Although lots of plumbers these days still use the K1500, Water jet machines are increasing in popularity due to the ease of use and versatility but there are other reason to use a jet machine that few plumbers know about.

1. They are less likely to get jammed and stuck. Using any drain equipment comes with its risks and one of the biggest risk is getting the machine you are using stuck inside the drain. This can happen many ways but usually comes down to experience. We often see many DIY'ers hiring equipment from a hire shop then attempting the drain clear themselves. While this can be a cheaper way to go, if things go wrong it can mean big trouble in terms of retrieving the equipment and also drain repairs which can be expensive. Jet machines (When used by an experienced operator) have a much less likely chance of getting stuck in the drain.
2. They can be used inside. Most plumbers these days will encounter a situation where they will need to bring their drain clearing equipment inside. Most modern new homes that are built on concrete foundations have limited access to the drain laid beneath them and in some cases they don't allow access at all. Bringing an electric eel cable machine inside is a drain cleaners worst nightmare for several reasons but the most is they are so destructive that the insides of a customers house can be very badly damaged. Damages and scratched skiting boards, damaged flooring, Holes in plaster are only a few of the troubles plumbers can encounter even if they prepare the area with drop sheets. Water jet machines however connect with flexible non damaging hoses that don't move around when in use plus they stay clean and are much easier and more hygienic to use.
3. They can be used with CCTV camera systems. Now most plumbers who use cable machines would argue that you can use a camera with a cable machine, however what they won't tell you is that you cannot use them at the same time. So if you want to save money and don't want your drain job to take all day, water jet systems are the best way to go. You can use the CCTV camera system at the same time which means the plumber can inspect the drain as its being cleaned with saves time and it also gives you a much better job and a cleaner drain.

As you can see High Pressure Water Jet systems are far superior to their mechanical counter parts. They do however require a substantial upfront investment, regular maintenance and the right training, but when used correctly, can ensure your drains are cleaned and cleared to the highest standard which will ensure they will stay clear for longer and save you money.

When looking for a plumber to clear your blocked drain, insist they use a high pressure water jet machine and that they are trained in the right drain clearing techniques. Clearing drains is an art as well as a science. Your plumber should have a thorough working knowledge of how drains have been run in the past on older homes as well as the newer techniques used so they can choose the right water jetting equipment to be used with your drain. Things your plumber should be aware of when they arrive at your home are

• How old your home is
• Where the connection point to the main is
• Where any inspection openings are located on your property
• What fixtures are blocked
• Any past work you have had done on your drains - including any unblocking service you may have had
• How long you have had the problem for
• How often your drain blocks up or if this is the first time

Your plumber should do a very thorough analysis of your whole drain system and ask you lots of questions to get as much information from you as possible before they recommend what they will do. Check out any plumbing reviews first before you select a plumber and you should be in safe hands