Electric Eel vs Water Jetter – What’s Better for Clearing Drains?

Trying to decide between an electric eel and a water jetter for your blocked drain? Learn how each tool works, their pros and cons, and what Aussie plumbers really think.

It’s one of those age-old tradie debates: What’s better for clearing a blocked drain – the electric eel or the water jetter?

Plumbers across Australia have weighed in around job sites, over smoko, and even on the tools. Customers are curious too, especially when they see us rock up with one or the other. And while the jury might still be out, most licensed plumbers will tell you this: both tools get the job done — but it depends on the job.

Whether your plumber brings along an electric eel or a water jetter, rest assured: they’re not here to muck around. These machines are some of the hardest-working tools in any plumber’s kit. Still, each one has its strengths and weak spots — and after years on the job, I’ve developed a strong preference (I’ll tell you why in a bit).

Electric Eel for Drain Cleaning

What Is an Electric Eel?

Despite the name, there’s nothing slippery or fishy about it. An electric eel is a mechanical drain-clearing machine with a long steel cable that rotates to cut through blockages. It’s powered by a motor and is great for cutting through solid obstructions like grease, food waste, and some roots.

Pros of the Electric Eel:

  • ✅ Great in tight spaces and indoor areas
  • ✅ Doesn’t flood the place (handy for indoor blockages)
  • ✅ Gets through some stubborn blockages

Cons of the Electric Eel:

  • ❌ Doesn’t clean the pipe – just pokes a hole through the blockage
  • ❌ Can push blockages further down the line
  • ❌ Hard yakka – heavy gear to lug around
  • ❌ Not ideal for serious root invasions

Watch our video to see how an Electric Eel clears blocked drains

Water Jetter for Drain Cleaning

What Is a Water Jetter?

A water jetter uses high-pressure water to blast away blockages. It’s incredibly effective at cutting through tree roots, grease build-up, and just about anything clogging your pipes. It also cleans the pipe, not just clears it.

Pros of the Water Jetter:

  • ✅ Clears and cleans the drain
  • ✅ Excellent for tree roots and tough blockages
  • ✅ Quicker and more efficient
  • ✅ Gentler on the plumber’s back – lighter and easier to work with

Cons of the Water Jetter:

  • ❌ Needs water access and a bit of space to work
  • ❌ Risk of overspray – not ideal for indoor blockages
  • ❌ Requires maintenance and know-how
  • ❌ Can damage old pipes if not used properly

Watch our video to see how a Water Jetter clears blocked drains

My Preference: Why I Rate the Water Jetter Higher

Having used both for years, here’s why I lean toward the water jetter — especially for outdoor and stubborn drain jobs:

  1. It’s faster – Less time on the job means less disruption for you.
  2. It’s cleaner – It doesn’t just punch through the blockage, it flushes it all out.
  3. It’s efficient – It gets the job done right the first time.
  4. It saves my back – Hauling around an eel all day isn’t exactly easy work.

But hey, it’s not always the right tool. In tight indoor spaces or areas where water can’t be used (like under your kitchen sink or near electrical gear), the electric eel still has its place. It’s all about using the right tool for the right job.

So, What Should You Choose?

Honestly? That’s our job as plumbers – to assess the situation and bring the tool that’s best suited. If you’re tackling a small clog yourself and only have access to basic equipment, you might lean toward an electric eel. But if it’s a stubborn or recurring blockage, calling in a pro with a water jetter is usually the smarter move.

Blocked drains can be a real pain – but with the right gear and an experienced plumber, you’ll have water flowing in no time.

Bonus Tip:

Next time your plumber turns up to sort out a blockage, ask them:
“Mate, do you reckon the jetter or the eel is better?”
You’ll likely spark a passionate response – and maybe even learn a thing or two.

Conclusion

Both tools have their place. The electric eel is a reliable workhorse, especially in older homes or tight indoor spots. The water jetter, on the other hand, is powerful, precise, and gets the job done with less mess and more speed.

The real key? Hiring a plumber who knows when to use what. At The Plumbing & Electrical Doctor, we’ve got both in the van and decades of experience under the belt. No matter the blockage, we’ll clear it the right way.

Got a blocked drain or just want some advice?
📞 Call The Plumbing & Electrical Doctor at 13 10 91
Proudly servicing Newcastle, Canberra, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley, Central Coast, and Port Stephens.

THE DOCTOR GETS IT DONE

General Plumbing & Electrical | Hot Water Systems | Blocked Drains | Gas Fitting
Call Now! 13 10 91