Chemical drain cleaners promise a quick fix, but they come with tradeoffs that hydro jetting doesn't.
How Chemical Cleaners Work
Most store-bought drain cleaners use caustic or acidic chemicals to dissolve organic buildup like hair and grease. They can work on minor, fresh clogs but often fail on more established blockages.
The Downsides
Repeated use of chemical cleaners can corrode older pipes over time, and they pose a safety risk if mishandled. They also don't remove solid buildup like scale, roots, or scale-hardened grease.
How Hydro Jetting Compares
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water alone — no chemicals — to physically scour the inside of the pipe clean. It's effective on grease, scale, and debris that chemicals can't fully dissolve, and it's safe for most modern pipe materials.
When to Skip the Chemicals
If a clog hasn't cleared after one attempt with a store-bought product, stop — repeated chemical treatments risk pipe damage without solving the underlying buildup.
Call AAA Sewer & Plumbing Clean Out at 718-594-3918 for a safer, more thorough fix.