Water Jets (Hydro Jet) vs. Cable Machines 

The plumbing industry has evolved significantly over the years and has certainly made some serious advances in its drain cleaning practices. Two of the most commonly used tools for cleaning drains are vacuums and traditional cord machines, but which is better or when should you use which type?

Water Jets (Hydro Jet) vs. Cable Machines Plumbing Materials: Which is Better for Clearing Clogs?

Cable Machines

If your goal is to chop down tree roots or salvage objects, traditional cable machines do a great job. Use a larger gauge cable that has the torque needed to cut through tree roots. To recover debris such as rags, children’s toys, broken cords, etc., first select the size of your drain line to find the right cording machine for the job. From hair, soap and scale in small lines to tree roots, cuts and gravel in large drain lines, a cable machine is still generally required. However, when it comes to greasing plugs, cables struggle and a more powerful tool may be required.

Cable Machines Pros

• Cheaper drain cleaning solution
• Extends the life of your pipes

Cable Machines is the most affordable Drain Cleaning Solution

If budget is your number one priority, Cable Machines will get your plumbing system working again for less than waterjet.

Cable Machines extends the Life of your Pipes

Cable machines, like any form of drain cleaning, extend the life of your pipes by clearing clogs and eliminating the possibility of damage from debris.

Disadvantages of cable machines

• Less effective at cleaning pipes
• Must be performed more frequently than Water Jets

Cable machines are less effective at cleaning pipes

• Less effective at cleaning pipes
• Must be performed more frequently than Water Jets

Cable machines need to be done more often than waterjet

Because cable machines don’t clean your pipes like a Water Jets, drainage problems are more likely to return sooner than if your pipes were Water Jetted.

Water Jets

Water jets are ideal for cleaning grease-clogged pipes, as well as blowing sand out of bloated pipes and melting chunks of ice. These nozzles use a high-pressure jet of water to remove and flush away grease from the pipe walls. Squeezing the nozzle moves the hose along the line for wall-to-wall cleaning.

It is recommended to use a gas nozzle instead of electric nozzles which can blow circuit breakers. You get twice the pressure and flow with gas than with electric jets, and it gives you the power to cut through stubborn clogs and pull hose through longer lines. Gas nozzles can also be used in buildings and confined spaces where exhaust fumes can be dangerous while keeping the nozzles safe outdoors.

Pros of the Water Jet

The Water Jet Clears Everything

• There is really no obstacle that the water jet cannot overcome. It slides easily and removes the most stubborn blockages.

The Water Jet does more than just Punch Holes in the Mud

• There’s nothing wrong with using a coiled tubing on a clogged drain. It’s a proven way to break down barriers. However, a plumber’s snake can only poke holes in the clogs large enough for the sewage to flow again. You cannot clean the inside of your pipes like the hydrojet. The Water jet removes everything. Then your pipes are as clean as sewage pipes can get.

The Water Jet is Non-Invasive

• Water jets are a non-invasive procedure. No digging is required to reach the clogged pipe. Access is easy via cleaning.

Water Jet is Safe

• The water jet unclogs clogs and makes your drains sparkling clean with nothing more than high-pressure water. No chemicals required. No chemicals used.

Water Jet is Environmentally Friendly

• Since it is only pressurized water, the Water jet is a green technology that does not pollute the environment.

Water Jet can Break Small Tree Roots

• Tree roots are one of the main causes of sewer bursts. They work their way in and if not removed while they are small they will continue to grow and eventually destroy the pipe. The jet of water easily breaks the roots of small trees before they can do any serious damage.

Cons of the Water Jet

When it comes to easily breaking through and overcoming obstacles, nothing beats the water jet. However, there are still a few downsides to consider.

Water Jets can Damage Fragile and Older Pipes

• Unfortunately, sewer pipes don’t last forever, and the older they get, the more likely they are to crack and break. This means that pipes of a certain age and condition should not be water jetted as 4000 PSI pressurized water could seriously damage them. When that happens, you have an even bigger problem.
• The only way to determine if a pipe should not be water jetted is to first conduct a CCTV video inspection.

Unlike the snake, the water jet is not a DIY project

• Sorry, that’s a plumbing job you can’t do yourself. Only experienced waterjet professionals have the equipment and training to water blast your pipes without damaging them.
• All professional sewer repair companies conduct CCTV video inspection before wet cleaning. They do this for a number of reasons. First they need to make sure that the pipe is clogged and not collapsed. Second, they need to make sure the pipe is in good condition and strong enough to handle the high pressure water. Never hire a plumber who does not conduct a video inspection in front of the hydrojet.

The Water Jet uses a Lot of Water

• We said earlier that waterjet is a green technology and that is certainly true. It uses no harsh chemicals, just water. The problem is that it uses a lot of water. That means it’s probably not the best solution for clearing clogs during a drought.

When should you use the Water Jet?

• A plunger is usually the first thing you need to reach for when you have a clogged drain. If that doesn’t work, try the snake. It’s generally very effective for removing occasional clogs caused by things like groceries and toilet paper. If that doesn’t work, call a pro and get them out, do a CCTV video inspection, then water jet the line. Water jet works great on stubborn clogs that don’t respond to other methods.

However, you should consider…

Flush your drains regularly with water

• Some landowners are water jetting their sewers as part of a planned maintenance program. This is because while some old pipes have

Choose The Right Tool

If you decide to do the job yourself and compare water purifiers to cord machines, choosing the right option will reduce your maintenance costs from using the wrong tool at the wrong time, making your job easier and saving you money.

However, most people are better off leaving the job to professionals. Giving your local plumbing company the right information will help them choose the right tool for your particular clog. Professional installers can choose the right tool for the job and clear the line faster.

When you need drain cleaning service in the Roanoke, Salem, VA area, Wisler Plumbing & Air has the knowledge and experience to solve all of your plumbing problems.

If you’re visiting Virginia, you’re missing out if Roanoke isn’t on your itinerary. Roanoke, Virginia is a hidden treasure on the banks of the Roanoke River, and there’s no shortage of things to do.

Nestled between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge mountains is the charming town of Roanoke. Its fascinating past and beautiful location right on the Appalachian Trail give it a distinctive blend of rural and urban vibes.

Once a railroad hub, Roanoke is now the perfect place to let off steam. The quaint mountain town has come a long way since it was nicknamed “Big Lick.” The bustling city has enough museums, parks, cultural attractions and restaurants to keep you busy for at least a weekend. – who you take with you on your trip.

Don’t know where to start? Our list of top Roanoke, VA attractions will help you create the perfect itinerary!

Mill Mountain Park

The heart of the city is surrounded by beautiful Virginia countryside thanks to Mill Mountain Park. The mountain that bears the park’s name is surrounded by hundreds of acres of green space, making it the perfect spot for a stroll and picnic.

Climb the Star Trail for a panoramic view of 60 miles of Roanoke Valley and a close-up of the Mill Mountain Star, Roanoke’s most prominent contemporary claim. Measuring over 100 feet of light-embellished steel, the world’s second largest man-made star has a big twinkle!

Take the kids to the Mill Mountain Zoo to learn about the habitats of lynx, porcupines, otters and reptiles. You have to learn something too! The restaurant offers a breakfast buffet with zoo animals every third Saturday of the month.

If you and your partner are alone, stop and smell the roses in the Discovery Center’s wildflower garden.

Virginia Museum of Transportation

The indoor/outdoor Virginia Museum of Transportation, housed in the city’s former railroad depot, lets visitors learn about Roanoke’s coal-fired past.

Roanoke has a rich transportation history, having once been a major railroad hub and train manufacturing center. The Shenandoah Valley Railroad is responsible for most of the city’s expansion based on its connections to the railroad industry.

Explore the nation’s largest collection of diesel, steam, and electric trains at the Virginia Museum of Transportation. One of their greatest successes, the trolleybus, as well as the locally built Norfolk & Western Class A 1218 and J-611 should not be missed.

See buggies and a Jupiter rocket at the various vehicle and aircraft exhibits for people who prefer alternative modes of transportation.

Taubman Museum of Art

You can see at a glance why the Taubman Museum of Art’s strikingly angular construction has sparked such controversy among residents. While some hate the contemporary unsuitability of Randall Stout’s design, others appreciate that it shakes things up.

The interior of the building is as stimulating as its exterior. The Taubman Museum of Art has 11 galleries of contemporary and traditional American art. Admire artworks from the Art Museum’s permanent collection by artists such as Thomas Cowperthwaite Eakins, John Singer Sargent and Purvis Young.

Even the ceiling is a work of art. Don’t forget to look up to see the glass atrium and corrugated ceiling, designed to resemble the Roanoke Star and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Explore Park

Looking for a little outdoor adventure on your travels? Thrill seekers, rejoice! On more than 1,100 acres, Explore Park offers miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, access to the Roanoke River and outdoor recreation. The Blue Ridge Parkway is just a short distance away where you can experience your thrills.

Experience the high life in the treetops at Explore Park’s Treetop Quest, an aerial obstacle course complete with zip lines, Tarzan swings and ropes. Canoe down the creek or try your hand at disc golf.

Have you heard nature’s call? Camp outdoors in a tent, cabin, yurt or whatever takes your fancy at Explore Park.

You can purchase a souvenir made by local artists at the Visitor Center’s gift shop. After your adventures, treat yourself to a craft beer at the on-site Twin Creeks Brewpub.

Read Mountain Reserve

The Read Mountain Preserve offers 243 acres of beautiful nature. This nature reserve is a tranquil place to spend time with Mother Nature as it offers extensive wooded areas and plenty of peace and quiet.

There are eight kilometers of trails to choose from, or you can combine them into a continuous loop using the trail map. While there are courses for all levels, they are best suited to those with a strong heart.

You are welcome to take your dog with you on many of the hiking trails in the Read Mountain Preserve. For a panoramic view of the valley, hurry the two miles across an ancient gorge to Read Mountain, also known as “Buzzards Rock”.

Roanoke City Market

Stay for the ambiance; come cook! The Roanoke City Indoor/Outdoor Market has been in operation since the 19th century and is located right in downtown Star City. It is open all year round.

Stroll through aisles of luscious seasonal fruits, cheeses and freshly baked foods, all from an average distance of just 40 km. You can eat part of your winnings in one of the nine restaurants in the old interior.

And groceries aren’t the only thing you can buy at Roanoke City Market. Take advantage of the free family activities every Saturday during the summer or discover the shops in the neighborhood. You can even put together a bouquet of fresh flowers.

Elmwood Park

 Elmwood Park is more than just a green space. Catch a live music or festival just minutes from downtown Roanoke, home to more than 4,000 residents and visitors at the outdoor amphitheater (although there are many), the most famous concert venues in Southwest Virginia!

Grab a bite to eat at Elmwood Park while admiring the illuminated fountains on calmer days while stopping and sitting on the grassy patio.

Bring swimsuits if you have children with you so they can play in the sprinklers near the stage. At Peter Pan Playground, home to crocodiles, kids can play a tag game for a drier activity. Winter is the perfect time to train your axel or play a little hockey at the local rink.

Explore the boardwalk surrounded by blooming magnolias or admire the sculptures on the scenic Art Walk for a more romantic activity.

Wasena Park

When you need a little break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Roanoke, visit nearby Wasena Park for a comfortable and peaceful retreat. From this easy base, explore the Roanoke Valley Greenway and the nearby Roanoke River.

You can catch a nearby sporting event at Wasena Park or host your own game at the skate park, outdoor basketball court, baseball field or tennis courts. For a small friendly competition you have everything you need: a scoreboard, field lighting and stands. The playground is a good place for kids to burn off energy.

Prepare a quick lunch at one of the park’s two picnic huts, equipped with grills, if the group gets hungry.

St. Andrew’s Catholic Church

You can’t help but be struck by the splendor of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church. Set on a hill, it’s straight out of a fairy tale. The historic Gothic-style building with its twin towers occupies the same site as its smaller 19th-century brick predecessor.

Take a slow walking tour of the exterior and sanctuary of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, stopping to admire the buff-colored brick and sandstone architecture. Step inside to admire Italian white marble and 1940s frescoes.

Browse the 15 intricate stained glass windows imported from Munich. They depict the stories of the saints and include a rose window over the entrance and one of St Andrew which is 30 feet high.

O. Winston Link & History Museum of Western Virginia

Retreat to nearby Wasena Park for a convenient yet quiet respite whenever you need a quick break from downtown Roanoke. Explore the nearby Roanoke River and Roanoke Valley Greenway from this easy base.

Wasena Park has outdoor tennis courts, a baseball field, a basketball court and a skate park where you can catch a local sporting event or host your own game. They have everything you need for a small friendly competition including a scoreboard, field lights and stands. Children can let their energy out on the playground.

Pack a quick lunch if the group gets hungry at one of the park’s two picnic huts, equipped with grills.

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As summer comes to an end and the holidays near, many homeowners will inevitably face complications with their HVAC systems. However, it is important to understand whether or not your system needs to be serviced or replaced.

After being in the HVAC industry for many years, I have learned a lot about the signs that indicate an HVAC system needs to be replaced. Saving you time and money, HVAC replacement indications are simple to understand when you know what to look for.

What Should You Look For?

When HVAC issues arise, it is crucial that the issue is fixed as soon as possible. HVAC problems can cause a lot of discomfort, and can be dangerous in inclement weather situations when heating or cooling are essential. Here are 3 signs that you should be looking for to indicate whether or not your HVAC system needs a replacement.

Frequent Service 

If you find yourself calling the service repair provider more than once a year, or even more than once every couple years, you may want to consider replacement. Like frequently servicing your car, frequent HVAC repairs can cost a substantial amount of time and money. To ensure a more dependable system, as well as to avoid having to repair your system more often than necessary, you might want to replace your HVAC unit.

Run Time

If your HVAC system seems to be running consistently, it may be an indication that something is wrong. Throughout the year, you can expect your HVAC system to run normally 99 percent of the time. Only during extreme weather situations should your unit be running more than average. Similar to frequently servicing your unit, extended run time can result in costly repairs or utility bills. Replacing your HVAC unit may be the best solution to consistent run time.

Rising Utility Bills

As a homeowner, you likely know the average cost of your utility bill. However, if you notice a recent or consistent rise, despite no change in usage, it could be a sign that your HVAC unit needs a replacement. Unfortunately, this is often due to the unit’s life expectancy. On average, once a unit surpasses 10 years, homeowners are met with various problems that may not be fixable.

Due to ever-changing regulations, if you have an older HVAC system, we may not even be able to supply parts, knowledge, or ability to work on them. Thus, if your HVAC unit is over 10 years old and you’ve noticed a recent or consistent utility bill hike, replacement may be your best option.

If you think that your HVAC system needs service or needs to be replaced in the greater Roanoke area, Franklin County, and homes around Smith Mountain Lake, give us a call at (540) 483-9382.

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For those that don’t know, I was a very young child when I first started riding with my dad, performing service calls. I was really only good for watching and annoying him and running back and forth to the truck for parts and tools.

As a very small company, it was just him and a couple other people, so there were a lot of late nights. I can remember him sending me back for a wrench or something, and in the dark outside, it felt like wandering through a bunch of landmines to me. It could’ve been a big dog, or just the fact that it was dark, but I’d always run.

It’s kind of funny that, even as teenagers and young adults, we would still run everywhere on the jobsite. People would look at us and laugh like, what in the world is wrong with you?  Nobody else runs like that to the truck. It was just a habit that we had formed, possibly from being scared of the dark when we were younger.

Being in different homes as a kid introduced me to families and people who were different than me. My dad always taught me that we were simply there to help and serve the client. It shaped me into who I am now.

If you’re looking for an experienced team to service your home in HVAC or plumbing, you can call us at 540-483-9382.