If you’ve ever asked, “What is hydro jetting?”, the answer is simple. It’s a high-powered cleaning method that uses pressurized water to clear out stubborn clogs, grease buildup, and even invasive tree roots.
When traditional tools like plungers and snakes only scratch the surface, hydro jetting gets deep into your pipes and flushes out years of buildup, restoring full flow and preventing future blockages.
What Is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting’s process involves inserting a hose with a specialized nozzle into the plumbing system and blasting water, often at pressures up to 4,000 PSI, to scrub the interior walls of the pipes.
Here’s a step-by-step look at how hydro jetting works:
- Inspection: A plumber uses a video camera to inspect the pipes and locate the blockage or buildup.
- Setup: A high-pressure hose connected to a water tank is inserted into the pipe.
- Jetting: Water is blasted through the nozzle, breaking apart grease, sludge, tree roots, and debris.
- Post-Inspection: The plumber may re-inspect the pipe to ensure the clog is fully cleared.
When Is Hydro Jetting Needed?
Some clogs can be fixed with a plunger or a quick snaking, but not all. Hydro jetting is the go-to solution for severe or recurring clogs that just won’t quit.
You might need hydro jetting if:
- Your drains clog frequently, even after being cleared.
- You notice slow drainage throughout the home.
- There are foul odors coming from the drains.
- A sewer line camera inspection shows significant buildup or tree root intrusion.
Tree roots are one of the biggest culprits behind serious sewer line clogs. They can infiltrate tiny cracks in your pipes and grow into massive blockages. What is hydro jetting good for in this case? Cutting through those roots and flushing them out completely.
Benefits of Hydro Jetting
So, why choose hydro jetting over other methods?
- Chemical-free: No harsh or corrosive drain cleaners needed.
- 360° Cleaning: The high-pressure stream scrubs the entire inner diameter of your pipe, not just the center.
- Prevents Future Clogs: By fully clearing out grease and debris, it reduces the likelihood of another clog forming soon after.
- Safe (when done right): Professional hydro jetting is tailored to your pipe’s condition and material.
How Hydro Jetting Compares to Other Methods
Snaking
Snaking is quick, affordable, and works well for smaller clogs. But it only punches a hole through the blockage, leaving residue behind that can lead to recurring issues.
Chemical Cleaners
These off-the-shelf solutions seem convenient, but they’re harsh on your plumbing. Over time, they can corrode your pipes—and they’re not exactly eco-friendly.
Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting clears the entire pipe using high-pressure water. It’s powerful, chemical-free, and long-lasting, but it does require a trained professional to perform safely and effectively.
Is It Safe for Your Pipes?
A common misconception is that hydro jetting is too aggressive for older plumbing. In reality, professional plumbers assess your pipes before starting the process. If your plumbing is too fragile, they’ll recommend a safer alternative.
Hydro jetting is safe for:
- PVC pipes
- Cast iron pipes (in good condition)
- Modern sewer systems
It might not be suitable for extremely corroded or damaged pipes, but that’s why an inspection is always done first.
Why It’s Best Left to Pros
Knowing what hydro jetting is doesn’t mean you should try it yourself. This is not a DIY tool, it requires specialized equipment, experience, and the ability to choose the right pressure based on your pipe material.
We also use video camera inspections to verify the issue before and after cleaning. That way, you know it’s actually fixed, not just pushed further down the line.
Is Hydro Jetting Right for You?
If you’re dealing with constant backups, strange odors, or sluggish drains, it may be time for a more thorough solution. Hydro jetting clears the toughest clogs, restores full flow, and helps keep future problems at bay.
Rapid Plumbing offers expert hydro jetting services across Southern California. Our team uses cutting-edge tools and decades of experience to keep your pipes in peak condition. Ready for a deep clean? Get in touch today for a free estimate and same-day service.