Cleaning Versus Clearing Pipes: What’s The Difference?

In plumbing, “cleaning” and “clearing” pipes can sound interchangeable. But these terms refer to two distinct approaches. Both are essential maintenance tasks and their difference lies in the results needed. Both are results of professional drain cleaning in Rockaway, NJ, to restore the function of pipes in different ways.

Cleaning And Clearing Pipes

A plumbing system experiencing persistent slow drains or backups is often due to a buildup rather than a full blockage. In such cases, drain cleaning services focus on restoring the pipe interior to its original state.

Cleaning is a more thorough maintenance-focused task, often used in maintenance. It scrubs and washes pipe walls clean of grease, soap, and other residues.

In contrast, a clogged drain with obstructions requires clearing, not cleaning. Clearing is about re-establishing flow through the pipe. It often uses mechanical tools to push or break up the blockage and restore function in emergencies.

A specialist drain cleaning company uses both cleaning and clearing, whichever is the better option needed for the job. For example, pipes with recurring buildup have remaining residue that needs thorough cleaning. A major blockage that causes non-drainage, stalling, or backups has a single, isolated blockage that needs immediate clearing.

Different Methods In Cleaning And Clearing

For deep cleaning, hydro jetting is the most effective tool. It uses high-pressure water to scour the pipe walls, removing years of grime and buildup.

When clearing is the goal, drain snaking is the go-to technique. A flexible auger physically breaks apart or retrieves the clog. This quickly restores function and flow and doesn’t need to clean the whole pipe interior.

More invasive clogs require rooter services to clear the blockage. Thick, heavy tree roots or hardened combination debris stuck to pipes need this heavy-duty equipment. Rooters use rotating blades to cut through roots and debris, a method useful for older properties.

These methods often use drain inspection cameras for a complete overview of the pipe and its status. They are both for maintenance, detection, and guidance for a more precise job.

When you need professional cleaning and clearing of pipes, call RDH Plumbing, Sewer & Drain Specialist, the most reliable local plumbing authority.