Hydro jetting is a powerful way to clean clogged pipes, but how long does it last? The short answer is that hydro jetting can keep pipes clear for anywhere from six months to two years, depending on various factors. Many homeowners and business owners opt to have their pipes hydro jetted annually to prevent major clogs from forming. Think of it as giving your plumbing a fresh start every year.
If you’ve dealt with recurring clogged drains, hydro jetting might be the long-term solution you’re looking for. This method uses high-pressure water to blast away debris, grease, and tree roots, leaving your pipes clean and flowing freely.
Let’s explore how hydro jetting works, how long the results can last, and how it compares to other de-clogging methods.
Key Takeaways:
- Hydro jetting keeps pipes clear for six months to two years, depending on usage and pipe condition.
- Annual hydro jetting is recommended for preventative maintenance.
- It’s more thorough and long-lasting than snaking or using chemical cleaners.
- Several factors can impact the longevity of hydro jetting, including the type of waste, pipe condition, and frequency of use.
- Proper maintenance and being mindful of what goes down the drain can extend the benefits of hydro jetting.
What is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting is like power-washing the inside of your pipes. It uses high pressure water jets that blasts water at around 5,000 PSI through your sewer lines. That’s about 20 gallons of water per minute rushing through the pipes, cutting through grease, sludge, mineral buildup, and other debris.
Imagine the toughest clog you’ve had, and then imagine a firehose of water demolishing it. That’s essentially what hydro jetting does.
Unlike traditional methods like snaking, which only breaks up clogs, hydro jetting cleans your pipes thoroughly. It creates a clear path for water to flow freely. Hydro jetting can solve problems like grease, sediment, and tree roots. It helps keep your plumbing flowing smoothly for a long time.
How Long Does Hydro Jetting Last?
The effectiveness of hydro jetting can last from six months to several years, depending on your specific situation. While there’s no hard-and-fast rule for how long it lasts, many plumbers recommend annual hydro jetting as a preventative measure.
If you’ve got a home where the pipes get regular use like your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, hydro jetting once a year can keep those clogs from coming back. For commercial properties with heavier usage, more frequent sessions might be needed.
One of the reasons hydro jetting is so effective is that it doesn’t just punch a hole in the blockage. It clears the entire pipe, ensuring that water flows freely and prevents debris from building up again too quickly.
But that doesn’t mean your pipes will stay perfect forever—so let’s look at the factors that can affect how long hydro jetting lasts.
Factors That Affect the Longevity of Hydro Jetting
Frequency of Usage
How often you use your plumbing plays a big role in how long hydro jetting lasts. If your household uses a lot of water and disposes of things like food scraps, grease, or soap through the drains, clogs are going to form faster. Homes with frequent usage, like those with big families or commercial properties, may need more frequent hydro jetting sessions.
On the other hand, if you’re mindful about what goes down the drain, you might go a couple of years between sessions.
Types of Waste
What you send down your drains has a huge impact. Grease, oils, and heavy debris like food scraps can clog pipes quickly, reducing the time between hydro jetting. Kitchen drains are notorious for grease buildup, while bathrooms might deal more with hair and soap scum.
In commercial or industrial settings, especially where grease or heavy debris is common, hydro jetting may be needed more frequently. The harder the clog, the sooner you may need another session.
Pipe Condition
The condition of your pipes matters too. Newer pipes that are in good shape will stay cleaner longer after hydro jetting. Older, corroded pipes may not hold up as well.
Over time, pipe material and design can contribute to how quickly buildup forms. If your pipes are older or made from materials that corrode easily, like cast iron, hydro jetting might be more of a regular requirement.
Regular Maintenance
Regular plumbing maintenance can extend the lifespan of your hydro jetting. Having your pipes inspected, addressing minor clogs early, and performing routine cleanings can help you avoid frequent hydro jetting. It’s much better to handle small issues before they turn into major clogs that require professional help.
How Can I Extend the Results of My Hydro Jetting?
There are some simple steps you can take to make your hydro jetting results last longer:
- Be kind to your kitchen drains: Avoid dumping food, coffee grounds, oils, or grease down the drain. These materials harden and stick to the pipes, causing buildup.
- Don’t rely too much on the garbage disposal: Use a compost bin for food waste when you can. Garbage disposals can only do so much before they contribute to clogged pipes.
- Use hair catchers in the bathroom: Hair and soap scum are common culprits in bathroom clogs. Using strainers in your sinks and shower can stop this debris from entering the pipes in the first place.
- Clean your drains regularly: Pour a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down the drain every couple of months. After it bubbles for a few minutes, flush the drain with hot water to help keep things flowing smoothly.
- Keep a drain snake handy: For minor clogs, using a drain snake can prevent the need for professional hydro jetting.
How Does Hydro Jetting Compare to Other Drain Cleaning Solutions?
There are a few alternatives to hydro jetting, but they don’t offer the same thorough results.
Boiling Water or Plunging
For minor, one-time clogs in the kitchen or bathroom, boiling water or plunging can be helpful. But they don’t tackle the root cause of the problem. These methods are good for temporary relief, but they don’t provide a long-term solution for recurring blockages.
Drain Snakes
A drain snake can be useful for clearing out a specific blockage, but it’s a bit like putting a band-aid on a bigger problem. Snakes punch a hole through the clog, but they don’t remove the debris entirely. That means the blockage can build up again over time, leading to another clog in a few months.
Chemical Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners are widely available, but they come with serious downsides. Over time, the chemicals can erode your pipes, leading to expensive repairs.
While they might solve the immediate clog, they’re likely to cause bigger problems down the road. Plus, they aren’t effective for tougher blockages like grease or tree roots.
Benefits of Hydro Jetting
- Thorough cleaning: Hydro jetting completely clears pipes of debris, making it more effective than other methods.
- Less frequent clogs: Since it removes more of the buildup, hydro jetting reduces the frequency of future clogs.
- Safe for pipes: Hydro jetting doesn’t involve harsh chemicals, which can damage your pipes over time.
- Versatile: It works on all types of pipes and blockages, from grease to tree roots, making it a versatile solution for various plumbing issues.
Signs You Need Hydro Jetting Services
Even if you’re careful with what goes down your drains, some clogs are inevitable.
Here are a few signs that it’s time to call in a professional plumber for hydro jetting:
- Tree roots: If you’ve got trees in your yard, their roots can infiltrate your sewer lines and cause blockages.
- Recurring clogs: If you’re dealing with frequent clogs, hydro jetting can offer a long-term solution.
- Slow drainage: Slow drains are often a sign of buildup, and hydro jetting can get things flowing again.
Make sure you hire an experienced plumbing company to perform the hydro jetting. The high-pressure water needs to be handled carefully to avoid damaging your pipes.
Trust Clog Wizards For Hydro Jetting Services
If you’re in Wilmington, DE, or the surrounding area, Clog Wizards is here to help with expert hydro jetting services. Their team uses the latest equipment to assess your pipes and recommend the best course of action. Whether it’s a stubborn clog or regular maintenance, they’ve got you covered – clearing drains like magic!
FAQs
How long does hydro jetting last?
The effects of hydro jetting can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on factors like pipe usage, the type of waste, and the condition of the pipes.
Is hydro jetting safe for old pipes?
Yes, hydro jetting is generally safe for older pipes, but it’s important to have a professional assess the condition of your pipes before performing the procedure.
Can I hydro jet my pipes myself?
Hydro jetting requires specialized equipment and training, so it’s best to leave this job to the professionals. Attempting it yourself could damage your pipes or cause injury.
How much does hydro jetting cost?
The cost of hydro jetting depends on the severity of the clog and the length of the pipes, but it’s typically more expensive than snaking. However, the results last longer, making it a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts
Hydro jetting is a powerful solution for stubborn, recurring clogs. It thoroughly cleans your pipes and offers long-lasting results that other methods can’t match. If you’re tired of dealing with clogged drains, it might be time to schedule a hydro jetting service. Your pipes will thank you later.