What drain rodding does
Rodding uses linked flexible rods and an attachment to reach and break up or move a local blockage. It may be considered where there is a straightforward obstruction near an access point and the pipe condition is understood.
Because rods do not clean the whole pipe wall, they may not address every deposit or a problem caused by a pipe defect.
- Often used for simple, accessible blockages
- Method depends on pipe condition and the attachment used
- May not resolve repeat faults or wall deposits
What drain jetting does
Jetting uses pressurised water through a hose and nozzle to move a blockage and clean deposits from a drainage run. The method, pressure and nozzle must be selected with the pipe condition, access and type of material in mind.
Jetting is not automatically appropriate for every pipe. If damage is suspected, a camera inspection can help determine whether clearance should be attempted and how it should be carried out.
- Can remove deposits such as grease, silt and debris
- Works through suitable existing access points
- May be part of planned drainage maintenance
- Can be followed by camera inspection where a defect is suspected
Choosing a method
A drainage professional should explain why a method is proposed and what it can and cannot address. For a recurring blockage, consider asking whether a camera inspection is appropriate after clearance to check for an underlying defect.
Frequently asked questions
Is jetting always better than rodding?
No. The suitable method depends on the blockage, access and pipe condition. The assessment should explain why one method is proposed.
Can rodding damage old pipes?
Any clearance work should take the pipe condition into account. If a pipe is already damaged, a careful assessment or camera inspection may be appropriate.
What if a blockage returns?
A repeat issue can indicate deposits or an underlying defect. Ask whether a camera survey would help identify the accessible condition of the drainage run.