Are your drains constantly clogging or draining slowly? You might have tried a plunger, liquid drain cleaner, or even snaking, but the problem keeps coming back. If this sounds familiar, it may be time to try hydro jetting.
Whether you're a homeowner or a business owner, this article will help you understand why plumbers often recommend hydro jetting for tough clogs.
What Is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting is a method of cleaning plumbing pipes using high-pressure water. It blasts water through your drains and pipes at a pressure strong enough to remove even the toughest blockages—like grease, food waste, tree roots, and mineral buildup.
Unlike traditional methods like snaking, which only clears a path through a clog, hydro jetting thoroughly cleans the entire inside of your pipe. This not only removes current blockages but also helps prevent future ones.
How Does Hydro Jetting Work?
The hydro jetting process involves a few key steps. Here’s how professionals typically perform it:
Step 1: Camera Inspection
Before starting, plumbers usually use a video camera inspection to inspect the inside of your pipes. This helps them find the blockage and make sure the pipe is not damaged.
Step 2: Inserting the Hose
A special hose with a 360-degree nozzle is inserted into the pipe. The nozzle sprays water in all directions to scrub the pipe walls clean.
Step 3: Blasting the Water
Water is then blasted into the pipe at very high pressure—anywhere from 1,500 to 4,000 PSI (pounds per square inch). The pressure is strong enough to cut through grease, scale, sludge, and even small tree roots.
Step 4: Final Check
Once the pipe is cleaned, the plumber may perform another camera inspection to ensure everything is clear.
What Can Hydro Jetting Remove?
Hydro jetting is powerful enough to remove a wide range of blockages. Here are some common things it can clear:
- Grease and oil from kitchen drains
- Soap scum and hair from bathroom sinks and tubs
- Mineral deposits in hard water areas
- Tree roots growing into underground sewer lines
- Food waste and sludge from restaurant drains
It’s a versatile tool that can be used for both residential and commercial plumbing problems.
Where Is Hydro Jetting Used?
Hydro jetting isn’t just for homes. It’s also used in many different places where heavy use of plumbing systems occurs:
Residential Use:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry room drains
Commercial & Industrial Use:
- Restaurants and cafes (to clean grease buildup)
- Hotels and motels
- Schools and universities
- Office buildings
- Car washes
- Hospitals
Pros and Cons of Hydro Jetting
Like every method, hydro jetting has its pros and cons.
Pros:
- Thorough cleaning – Clears the entire pipe, not just the blockage
- Eco-friendly – Uses only water, no harmful chemicals
- Prevents future clogs – Leaves pipes cleaner than other methods
- Cost-effective in the long run – Fewer repeat clogs and service calls
Cons:
- Not for damaged pipes – Can worsen cracks or weak areas in old plumbing
- Professional-only – Not safe for DIY use
- Slightly more expensive upfront – But saves money on long-term repairs
When Should You Consider Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting isn’t for every situation, but it’s perfect when:
- You have frequent clogs or backups
- Your drains smell bad due to trapped waste
- A snake or auger didn’t fix the problem
- You want to do preventive maintenance
- Tree roots are growing in your pipes
- You own a business with heavy plumbing usage
If your plumber suggests hydro jetting, it likely means you have buildup too strong for standard drain cleaning.
Tip: Look for plumbers who offer video inspections service before and after hydro jetting. This ensures transparency and trust.
Conclusion
Hydro jetting is one of the best and most powerful ways to clean your plumbing system. It not only removes current blockages but also gives your pipes a fresh start—like cleaning out years of buildup in just one session.
Whether you’re dealing with slow drains, foul odors, or stubborn clogs, hydro jetting might be the solution you need. Just remember—always consult a qualified plumber and request a camera inspection to make sure your pipes are ready for the pressure.
If you're looking for a trusted local expert in Orange County CA, then Cyclone Plumbing is here to help. We specialize in hydro jetting, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, 24*7 emergency plumbing, and more. Our licensed plumbers use advanced tools and techniques to safely restore your plumbing system—fast.