What is Hydro Jetting and When is it Necessary?

When stubborn drain clogs or sewer backups strike, traditional methods like plungers and drain snakes often fall short. That’s where hydro jetting steps in — a high-powered, professional solution that not only clears blockages but gives your plumbing system a deep clean.

In this article, we’ll break down what hydro jetting is, when it’s needed, and why it might be the right solution for your home or business.

What is Hydro Jetting?

Hydro jetting is a method of cleaning and unclogging drains and sewer lines using high-pressure streams of water. The equipment used includes a specialized hose and nozzle attached to a water tank capable of producing up to 4,000 PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure.

This high-powered stream of water blasts away:

• Grease and oil buildup
• Soap scum and residue
• Food particles
• Hair clogs
• Tree roots
• Mineral deposits and scale

Unlike traditional drain cleaning that only pokes a hole through the blockage, hydro jetting cleans the entire interior of the pipe, restoring it almost to its original condition.

When is Hydro Jetting Necessary?

Hydro jetting isn’t just for emergencies — it’s an incredibly effective maintenance tool. Here are common signs or situations where hydro jetting is necessary:

1. Recurring or Persistent Clogs

If you’re frequently dealing with slow drains or backups, chances are the problem is deeper within your plumbing. Hydro jetting clears out the entire pipe, not just the area of immediate blockage.

2. Slow Draining Fixtures

When sinks, tubs, or toilets drain sluggishly, it often indicates a buildup of debris within the lines. A high-pressure water jet can break apart and flush away that buildup effectively.

3. Sewer Odors

Foul smells from your drains or around your home could be caused by accumulated organic matter. Hydro jetting cleans away that gunk and gets rid of odors at the source.

4. Grease Buildup

Especially common in commercial kitchens, grease can line the walls of pipes and cause long-term damage. Hydro jetting is one of the few methods strong enough to safely and thoroughly remove hardened grease.

5. Tree Root Intrusions

Roots can grow into sewer lines and create serious blockages. Hydro jetting can cut through and clear small root invasions, although severe cases may require additional repair.

Benefits of Hydro Jetting

✔️ Thorough Cleaning – It scrubs the entire pipe interior, not just pokes a hole.
✔️ Environmentally Friendly – Uses only water — no harsh chemicals.
✔️ Non-Invasive – No need for digging or removing walls or flooring.
✔️ Long-Term Solution – Prevents future clogs and buildup.
✔️ Cost Effective – Avoids expensive emergency repairs by stopping problems early.

Is Hydro Jetting Safe for All Pipes?

While hydro jetting is powerful and effective, it may not be suitable for older or fragile plumbing systems. That’s why a video camera inspection is often performed beforehand to assess the condition of your pipes and ensure they can withstand the pressure.

Professional Hydro Jetting with AAA Sewer & Drain

At AAA Sewer & Drain, our hydro jetting services are performed by trained technicians using state-of-the-art equipment. Whether you’re dealing with a tough clog or just want to ensure your pipes are clean and problem-free, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today to schedule your hydro jetting service or to get a free assessment.