Let’s talk about clogged sewage lines. Slow drainage, overflowing sinks, and sewer backups are all signs of serious buildup in your pipes. The EPA estimates that there are between 23,000 and 75,000 sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) each year in the U.S. This number does not include sewage backups inside buildings.
If you’ve ever dealt with a stubborn clog, you know that traditional methods like plunging and snaking don’t always cut it. That’s where hydro jetting comes in. This professional plumbing technique uses high-pressure water to clear out blockages, including the buildup of grease, sludge, and even tree roots.
Hydro jetting is different from snaking. While snaking makes a hole through clogs, hydro jetting cleans the whole pipe. This method is very effective for restoring proper drainage.
In this guide, we’ll cover what hydro jetting is and how it works, how it compares to traditional drain snaking, the benefits it offers, why it’s an excellent solution for tough drain blockages, and when you should consider calling a professional high pressure water jetting.
Key Takeaways
- Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water (up to 4,000 psi) to remove stubborn blockages.
- It’s more effective than traditional snaking because it cleans the entire pipe rather than just punching through a clog.
- Hydro jetting is safe for most pipes but may not be suitable for older, fragile plumbing.
- Professional plumbers perform a video inspection before hydro jetting to check for pipe damage.
- This method is chemical-free and environmentally friendly.
What Is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting is a high-pressure cleaning technique used to clear clogs and buildup in pipes. It involves blasting water through the sewer line at pressures reaching 4,000 pounds per square inche (psi) , which is strong enough to break apart grease, sludge, food particles, and even tree roots.
This method is different from traditional drain snaking, which uses a rotating metal auger to break up blockages. While snaking can push through debris, it doesn’t remove buildup from pipe walls, which means clogs can return quickly. Hydro jetting, on the other hand, scours the entire pipe clean, making it a more effective long-term solution.
How Hydro Jetting Works
Hydro jetting is a multi-step process that ensures pipes are thoroughly cleaned without causing damage. Before blasting high-pressure water through your sewer line, professional plumbers take key precautions to assess the condition of your plumbing system.
Video Inspection
Before hydro jetting, plumbers perform a video camera inspection to locate blockages and check the condition of the pipes. This ensures there are no cracks, breaks, or weak spots that could be damaged by high-pressure water.
Process Explained
Once the inspection is complete, the plumber inserts a nozzle into the sewer cleanout.
- The jet releases high-pressure water (up to 4,000 psi) into the pipe.
- The force of the water breaks up debris, grease, and other buildup.
- The water scours the pipe walls, flushing out any remaining residue.
Hydro jetting is highly effective, but it’s not suitable for every situation. If a pipe is severely corroded or damaged, jetting can make things worse. That’s why a professional video inspection is always required before starting the process.
Hydro Jetting vs. Traditional Snaking
When dealing with a clogged drain, hydro jetting and snaking are the two most common methods used. Both can remove blockages, but they work in different ways. One may be better for your situation than the other.
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clear blockages. It is great for removing grease, sludge, and other buildup from pipes. Unlike traditional drain snaking, which only punches through a clog, jetting cleans the entire pipe, preventing future blockages.
Drain snaking, on the other hand, relies on a mechanical auger to break apart debris. While it can clear a path through a clog, it doesn’t remove buildup from the pipe walls. Snaking is often a better choice for older pipes or fragile plumbing systems that may not withstand high-pressure water.
While snaking is useful for minor clogs, jetting is the superior choice for preventative maintenance and recurring drain issues.
Why You Need Hydro Jetting
You might need a jetting if you’re dealing with:
- Frequent clogs that keep coming back.
- Slow drains throughout your home or business.
- Overflowing sinks or toilets despite previous drain cleaning.
- Grease, sludge, fatbergs and food buildup in kitchen drains.
- Tree root intrusion causing sewer blockages.
- Heavy sediment or sand accumulation in sewer lines.
Ignoring these issues can lead to bigger plumbing problems, including pipe damage and costly repairs.
Benefits of Hydro Jetting
Jetting is one of the most thorough drain cleaning solutions available.
Here’s why:
- Effectiveness: Removes nearly all debris, including grease, sludge, and roots.
- Thoroughness: Cleans the entire pipe diameter, not just a small opening.
- Eco-Friendliness: Uses only water, avoiding harsh chemicals.
- Safety: No toxic substances involved, making it safe for homes and businesses.
How Is Hydro Jetting Used?
Jetting is versatile and works for both residential and commercial properties.
- Scouring pipe walls to remove accumulated debris.
- Flushing out stagnant wastewater from slow-moving systems.
- Breaking down grease and oil in restaurant kitchens.
- Clearing sludge and debris from commercial sewer lines.
- Removing tree roots before they cause severe damage.
- Blasting away calcified scale from hard water buildup.
- Melting ice blockages in frozen pipes.
- Washing out sand and sediment in municipal sewer systems.
Does Hydro Jetting Work on Tree Roots?
Yes, hydro jetting can cut through minor tree root intrusions. However, if the roots have caused serious damage, hydro jetting can actually make things worse.
That’s why a video inspection is essential before treatment. If the roots have compromised the pipe structure, additional repairs—like pipe relining or replacement—may be required.
Need Hydro Jetting in Wilmington, DE? Call Clog Wizards!
DIY jetting is a bad idea. The high-pressure water can damage weak or aging pipes, and improper use can lead to costly plumbing repairs.
That’s why it’s best to call licensed professionals like Clog Wizards. Our team specializes in residential and commercial hydro jetting and ensures your pipes are cleaned safely and effectively.
Serving Wilmington, DE, and surrounding areas, we handle:
✔ Tough clogs
✔ Grease and sludge buildup
✔ Commercial drain cleaning
Trust Clog Wizards for a comprehensive cleaning because we’re always clearing drains like MAGIC!
FAQs
Is hydro jetting safe for all pipes?
Hydro jetting is safe for most pipes, but older or fragile plumbing may not withstand the pressure. A professional inspection is required before treatment.
How often should hydro jetting be done?
For routine maintenance, hydro jetting should be performed every 1–2 years. If you experience frequent clogs, your plumber may recommend it sooner.
Does hydro jetting use chemicals?
No, hydro jetting is completely chemical-free. It relies only on high-pressure water, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Can hydro jetting replace snaking?
Not always. Hydro jetting is best for serious clogs and buildup, while snaking is better for minor blockages in older pipes.
Final Thoughts
Hydro jetting is one of the best drain cleaning methods available. It removes stubborn blockages, cleans pipe walls, and prevents future clogs—all without harsh chemicals.
If you’re dealing with slow drains, grease buildup, or sewer backups, Clog Wizards has the expertise to get your plumbing back in shape.