What is hydro jetting?

Hydro jetting pushes water at high pressure through drain pipes to clear obstructions and buildup that accumulate inside the line. The force of the water jet scours the interior pipe walls and breaks apart grease, soap deposits, mineral scale, and debris that restrict flow or cause backups.

Unlike cable or snake cleaning, which punctures or breaks through a single blockage point, hydro jetting cleans the entire interior surface of the pipe from end to end. This makes it particularly effective for homes with chronic recurring clogs, commercial kitchens dealing with grease buildup, or older pipes with mineral scale from hard water.

The process requires specialized equipment: a high-pressure pump unit, a water tank, and a hose fitted with a jetting nozzle designed to direct water jets forward and backward along the pipe interior. Plumbers use different nozzle types depending on the problem (grease removal, scale dissolution, or general debris clearing) and the pipe diameter.

Hydro jetting is typically more expensive than snaking but addresses root causes of recurring drainage problems rather than simply punching through immediate blockages. It can also prevent future backups by restoring the pipe's full diameter. However, it is not suitable for pipes with cracks or deteriorated sections, since the high pressure can worsen existing damage. A video inspection of the line before jetting helps plumbers confirm the pipe is sound enough to handle the treatment.

Find drain and sewer cleaning providers equipped for hydro jetting in your area.