Recurring clogs and slow drains are very frustrating. Not only does such a situation lead to sewer backups, but it may also potentially contaminate the home’s water source. If you experience constant problems with this, it’s a good idea to talk to your landlord and check some smart solutions for cleaning the pipes. Such a solution is hydro jetting. Here’s what you should know about it.
What is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro Jetting is a non-invasive plumbing solution that clears pipes by removing blockages effectively. It involves the use of high-pressure water jets, which can remove debris, clogs, and buildup from the plumbing system. In the past, rodding was the only solution through which plumbers powered a hole through the accumulation. However, hydro jetting is more prevalent among plumbers now.
Before the process starts, you will need to share your details with a professional company. They will inspect your plumbing system and evaluate the drain issues to understand if hydro jetting is required.
After the inspection, all the plumber has to do is find the ideal spot to insert a hose and begin pumping the water. Since the hose is highly durable, it will be able to shoot about 20 gallons of water a minute or 5,000 psi. This high water pressure will force the material blocking the pipes to flow down the sewer system. Regardless of whether the pipe has grease or mineral build-up, hydro jetting will take care of it.
Other alternatives include using tools like plungers and plumbing snakes, which are not as safe as hydro jetting. These tools don’t prevent blockages in the future but only temporarily release clogs. They push the waste deeper into the plumbing lines, making the issue even worse.
When Is It Needed?
Plumbers prefer hydro jetting when the water system is impaired with severe clogs that keep recurring. The interior of pipes often scales up with debris, grease, and mineral buildup, which causes clogging and slow draining. When this issue escalates, it can result in sewer backups. So if the plumbing system blocks up, dirty water may make its way into your home.
Hydro jetting solves such drain issues by pumping high-pressure water in the pipes. The jet works with gravity and forces the pipes to clear up.
An indicator that you may need hydro jetting includes a smelly kitchen sink that repetitively clogs up. A plumber can help eradicate the obstructions in your pipes and allow you to live peacefully. However, you may need to talk to your landlord and discuss the possibility of an inspection, which should tell you if hydro jetting can be a solution.
Risks of Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting is not for an amateur plumber. Moreover, it may not be effective at all, depending on the situation of the pipes. Rushing into a hydro jetting solution may make the situation worse if it wasn’t needed in the first place, so be careful before you opt for it.
The process of hydro jetting involves the flow of a lot of water in high pressure. High risk is associated with this process, which is why landlords should only hire an experienced plumber. After all, the last thing you want is someone to experiment with your plumbing system and enhance the damage.
If the pipes are damaged due to the root infestation, hydro jetting is a bad idea. The high pressure of the water will only further damage the pipes. Apart from that, hydro jetting will also not work if the pipe’s waterproof coating is compromised.
Before you embark on a hydro jetting journey, ensure that the plumber thoroughly inspects the pipes. A visual inspection of the plumbing system using video camera equipment is essential. This will help you make the best choice and prevent further damage to the plumbing system.
The Final Thoughts
Whenever you face a severe issue with clogging and slow drains, a proper inspection of the plumbing system is necessary.
The depositing of debris, grease, and buildup in the interior of pipes is problematic. Hydro jetting is a remedy that removes these materials through the combination of high water pressure and gravity.
A knowledgeable plumbing specialist will evaluate your needs and provide you with the right solution to clear the pipes. Hydro jetting will typically cost anywhere between $350 and $360.