How Plumbers Perform Hydro-Jetting
Before starting your hydro-jetting treatment, your plumber may perform a sewer line camera inspection to assess the integrity of your pipes and look for blockages. Given the exceedingly high pressure used in these treatments, hydro-jetting isn’t always suitable for old pipes or pipes with advanced wear and corrosion. These inspections also allow plumbers to adjust pressure levels accordingly. If you have normal build-ups of grease, soap scum, and hair in your wastewater pipes, your plumber might use 1,500 psi. If you have congealed “flushable” wipes in your plumbing system or other trapped, slow-degrading items, your plumber may use 3,500 psi instead.
Plumbers perform hydro-jetting via plumbing cleanouts or other access points. They insert long, pressurized hoses into wastewater pipes and turn them on. As these hoses slowly move through pipes, they clean off waste and force it toward municipal sewer systems. The entire process takes just 60 to 90 minutes.
Why Is Hydro-Jetting So Effective?
Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water in a relatively small and contained environment. This focuses pressurized jets directly on the pipe walls for maximum effectiveness. Even tough, tacky grime and heavy, hard-water sediment are lifted off and flushed away.
The high-pressure jets used in hydro-jetting are also powerful enough to break through invasive tree roots and weeds. If your sewer line has been encroached upon and roots are inhibiting the movement of wastewater away from your house, hydro-jetting is an excellent solution.
When Should You Schedule Hydro-Jetting?
Annual drain cleaning works best for large, busy households. If you have lots of people cooking, bathing, showering, and using the toilets in your home, your drains and wastewater pipes could develop thick buildups of grease, biofilm, and hair within just months. However, if you have a smaller household and fewer people using your plumbing system, then you may be advised to schedule drain cleaning every 18 to 22 months.
Signs You Need Hydro-Jetting Service Now
Hydro-jetting is an excellent option for general drain and sewer line maintenance. However, it’s also an effective corrective technique for sewer line blockages, tough plumbing clogs, and whole-house backups. Even if you’re up to date with all recommended plumbing maintenance, you may need hydro-jetting service if you have:
- Noisy drains
- A wet, marshy lawn
- Malfunctioning plumbing-connected appliances
- Sewer gas odors in your home or yard
If all the drains in your house start moving slowly or stop moving, hydro-jetting can clear your wastewater pipes and sewer lines completely.
