Q. It happens every holiday season - Thanksgiving, Christmas, whatever - our tenants cook the turkey, pour the grease down the drain, then call me when the grease clogs the line. What drain cleaning tool would you recommend that will clear the line fast so I can get back to my family?

A. The best tool to clear grease clogs quickly and easily is a water jet. Jets use a stream of high-pressure water that cuts the grease off the walls of the pipe and flushes it away. The thrust of the nozzle drives the hose down the line for wall-to-wall cleaning action. Water jets are ideal for clearing grease, as well as flushing sand and melting ice. 

Electric jets typically offer a maximum of 1,500 psi. Trying to get more pressure from an electric motor runs the risk of pulling too many amps and popping breakers. It’s better to use a gas-powered jet. You get twice the pressure and flow rate of electric jets to handle larger and longer lines. Gas jets can also clear indoor drainlines with a portable reel. It lets you use the power of gas jets in buildings and confined spaces where exhaust fumes could be hazardous, while the jet stays safely outside.   

But beware of trying to convert your pressure washer into a water jet. Jets use vibration to overcome the friction in the pipe and help the hose glide around bends and farther down the line. If you don’t have pulse, the hose could get stuck in the pipe. 

For more information, or to ask a question, call the Drain Brains at General at 800/245-6200, email info@drainbrain.com, or visit www.drainbrain.com.