What is Drain Jetting and How Does It Work?

Many of us know the standard ways to clear a blocked drain, with either a drain snake or chemical cleaners. There is another method that is significantly more effective − drain jetting. Using pressurised water, hydro jet draining not only unblocks your drains but also cleans them.

In this article, we will teach you all you need to know about drain jetting; what it is, how it works, when you should use it and if it’s safe for your plumbing.

Whether your blockage is big or small, understanding drain jetting can help you resolve it.

What is Drain Jetting?

Drain jetting, or hydro jet drain cleaning, is the process of using high-pressure water to clean and unblock drainage pipes. It uses a specialised machine that pumps water at an extremely high pressure through a hose connected to a nozzle.

The water comes out at such a high pressure that it is capable of breaking up blockages in the drainage system.

Hydro-jetting isn’t the only way to clear stubborn drain blockages, but it does have some key differences from other methods:

• Efficiency: Drain jetting provides a more thorough and effective cleaning than traditional drain snakes or chemical cleaners.
• Versatility: Hydro drain jetting will work in a large variety of drains and pipes, regardless of their size.

Hydro jet drain cleaning ensures that your pipes are not just unclogged, but thoroughly cleaned.

How Does Drain Jetting Work?

Drain jetting equipment consists of a specialised pump that pressurises water to a level strong enough to blast away any drain clogs. The water pressure created by the system can range from 1500 to 4000 psi (pounds per square inch).

This water is then sent through a hose connected to a nozzle that will further focus the water into powerful jets. The nozzle can send the jets of water in multiple directions, creating a 360° spray of water that fully scrubs the walls of the pipes. This way, the pipes are fully cleaned, helping to prevent future clogs.

When Should You Consider Drain Jetting?

Drain jetting is a powerful method for clearing out blockages, but it’s not always the first solution you need. Here are some scenarios where you should consider using drain jetting:

• Recurring blockages: If you’re dealing with frequent clogs in your drains, it’s a sign that something deeper is causing the issue. Drain jetting can clear out stubborn build-ups that other methods might miss.
• Slow draining water: If your sinks, tubs, or showers are draining slowly, it could be due to a significant blockage further down the pipe. Jetting can effectively remove this build-up and restore proper flow.
• Unpleasant odours: Bad smells coming from your drains often indicate a build-up of waste or grease. Drain jetting can clean out these deposits, leaving your pipes fresh and odour-free.
• Before a major plumbing project: If you’re planning renovations or major plumbing work, it’s a good idea to start with clean pipes. Jetting ensures your system is in top shape before any changes are made.
• Preventative maintenance: Regular drain jetting can prevent future blockages, keeping your plumbing system running smoothly.

Is Drain Jetting Safe for All Pipes?

Drain jetting is a safe and effective method of clearing blocked drains in almost every plumbing system.

However, there are a few types of pipes to give more consideration to before blasting away with a jet stream.

• Safe pipes: Drain jetting is safe for use on PVC and other modern materials commonly found in residential plumbing. These pipes are designed to withstand the high pressures used in the jetting process without risk of damage.
• Unsafe pipes: While high-pressure drain jetting is also effective for older metal pipes, caution is needed if the pipes are corroded or weakened. In such cases, a lower-pressure setting may be recommended to avoid causing further damage.

If you are unsure whether your pipes are safe for drain jetting, don’t hesitate to call in a professional drain jetting service. A professional can determine the appropriate pressure levels and ensure that the process is safe for your plumbing system.

Keep Your Water Flowing

Drain jetting is one of the most optimal ways for you to keep your drains clean and clear. By using the high-pressure water of the drain jet, you can not only remove stubborn blockages from your pipes but also clean them, preventing future clogs and issues.

Whether you’re dealing with slow drains, foul odours or simply looking to perform preventative maintenance, drain jetting is a reliable and environmentally friendly solution.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.