Although the two are commonly seen as synonymous, drain clearing and drain cleaning have two distinct meanings in the plumbing world.
Drain Clearing
- Quick fix for minor clog
- Only cleans the immediate clogged area
- Leaves remnants of clogs
- Uses tool called “snake”. Other common household tools like plungers and drain cleaner liquids actually fall under drain clearing
- Both clearing and cleaning should be performed by professionals. Using a plunger incorrectly can damage pipes and drain cleaner products can corrode and hurt your plumbing more than help.
Drain Cleaning
- Long term, more rigorous solution for major clogs
- Uses professional drain machine, or a highly pressurized water jetter if drain machine isn’t enough to clean the affected area
- Prevents future buildup and extends the lifespan of your plumbing system
Clearing should only be seen as a quick fix in preparation for longer term solutions like an annual cleaning, repair, or jetting. And remember – more money up front will likely pay off in the end by preventing more expensive emergencies down the road.