Electric mini jetters can handle many blockages in smaller residential and light commercial lines when paired with the correct nozzle, but they tend to lack the GPM/PSI power to clear hard blockages, and fail miserably at clearing roots. The higher GPM-flow and pressure of a gas-powered jetter is much more suited to clear larger commercial lines and severe blockages.

Forward-facing rotating nozzles, like the Reaper or Rotodrill are excellent penetrating nozzles, thus are most effective for the initial breakthrough to restore pipe flow. By contrast, typical rear-facing rotating nozzles are designed to remove buildup from the pipe-walls after flow has been restored. Many plumbers use both types during the same job to maximize overall cleaning results.

Difficulty clearing blockages are often caused by insufficient water-jet flow, incorrect nozzle selection, or buildup that is too dense for the current setup. In many cases, changing nozzle style or increasing jetter GPM-flow improves penetration and cleaning efficiency.

Penetrating and aggressive cutting nozzles are commonly used for hard blockages because they focus water power directly at the obstruction. These nozzles are often used for roots, packed wipes, sludge, hardened grease, and other dense stoppages.

Hard blockages usually include compacted debris that restricts or completely stops flow. Common examples include root masses, wipes, hardened grease, heavy sludge, scale buildup, and frozen material inside the pipe.