Hydro jetting is a modern rooter service available as preventive sewer line maintenance and as a solution for obstructions and other issues. It involves the use of a hydro jet machine that sends a high-pressure stream of water through the sewer line. The typical hydro jetting service appointment takes one to three hours. Let’s explore the pros and cons to determine if hydro jetting is the right choice for your home. In most cases, plumbers begin with a camera inspection to make sure a sewer line can safely handle the process.
Pro: Highly Effective for All Types of Clogs
Hydro jetting is highly effective at removing all manner of sewer line clogs, including obstructions that can be a challenge for traditional rooter services. With hydro jetting, a plumber can remove invasive tree roots that have been growing for many years, although severe root intrusion may still require pipe repair or replacement. Hydro jetting is also highly effective at removing:
- Mineral scale
- Foreign objects
- Hardened grease
- Soap scum and hair
- Silt, sand, and debris
Pro: Prevents Future Obstructions
Sewer pipes often accumulate scale, scum, and debris on their inner walls over time. That accumulation shrinks the pipe diameter and provides texture for clogs to form. Traditional snaking methods are not very effective at removing that type of buildup. A key benefit of hydro jetting is that it strips the inner pipe walls of all that debris, significantly reducing the chances of new clogs forming in the near future.
Pro: Lower Overall Plumbing Maintenance Costs
While hydro jetting is more expensive initially, it tends to save homeowners money over the long term. If you need to snake your sewer line, chances are you’ll need to snake it and perhaps your drains again in the months ahead. With hydro jetting, you can eliminate those concerns for several years.
Con: Potential Damage to Older Sewer Pipes
While hydro jetting is generally safe for modern sewer plumbing, it can damage older pipes and certain types of pipe materials. Most plumbing experts don’t advise hydro jetting for clay pipes and Orangeburg pipes, which are made from wood pulp and tar. With corroded cast-iron and galvanized steel pipes, hydro jetting can cause ruptures and other damage. Plumbers will typically perform a video inspection first to ensure that hydro jetting is safe. This is why a professional evaluation is critical before choosing hydro jetting for an older system.
Con: Higher Costs Than Sewer Line Snaking
The traditional method for cleaning a sewer line is snaking, which can be either manual or motorized. Hydro jetting can cost several times as much as snaking, especially for larger or more complex sewer lines. Pricing varies depending on location, severity of the clog, and other factors.
If your home’s sewer line is in good condition, hydro jetting can be an effective way to keep it that way. Many plumbers recommend preventive hydro jetting every 24 to 36 months for the average household. However, the best approach is to start with a professional inspection. A licensed plumber can determine whether your pipes are strong enough for hydro jetting and whether it is the right solution for your specific situation. If you have concerns or require hydro jetting services, contact Whipple Service Champions in Salt Lake City, UT.
