What are the benefits of using high-pressure water jetting for drain cleaning?

What is high-pressure water jetting?

High-pressure water jetting – also known as drain jetting – involves inserting a heavy power jet hose into your pipes to clean or unblock them. The power of the jet hose will unblock any debris, foliage, or dirt that has accumulated in your pipes over time, leaving them clean, clear, and optimally functional. 

What are the benefits of high-pressure water jetting?

So, why opt for high-pressure water jetting over other drain cleaning methods, such as liquid drain cleaners or drain rodding? Here are five reasons to choose water jetting:

Environmentally-friendly drain cleaning

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to keep your drains and pipes clear all year round, drain jetting is probably your best option. Not only does this method keep your drains unblocked and clear for at least a year, but there’s no need to involve chemical cleaners or cleaning agents to dislodge any stubborn debris. 

Can dislodge tree roots

Having tree roots get stuck in pipes is one of the peskiest problems for homeowners – particularly because they can be incredibly difficult to get out once lodged. The heavy power of the jet hose will usually be able to dislodge them with ease, so you won’t have to deal with blocked sinks, toilets, or overflowing drains for long.

Rapid and efficient

Unlike drain rodding – which can be a timely process – hydro jetting is simple and quick, and usually doesn’t require the use of a drain camera beforehand. This is because drain jetting isn’t exclusively used for drain blockages; it can also be a cost-effective, preventative way to keep your plumbing healthy and avoid other – more costly – forms of intervention later on.

Safe

For most plumbing systems, high-pressure water jetting is completely safe, and you won’t need to worry about the lingering residue of toxic chemical cleaners in your plumbing system. The only point to note here is that older or damaged pipes may not be able to support the impact of a high-pressure jet, but we’ll discuss more on that further on in this guide.

Removes odours

Blocked plumbing has a nasty, distinct sulphur smell that can make it unbearable for those in your home to use your property’s plumbing system, and many drain clearing methods (such as drain rodding) won’t be much use in tackling this.

However, thanks to its ability to remove almost all residue and build-up from the inside of your pipes, high-pressure water jetting can end up clearing away any foul odours.

Read More: How Does Drain Jetting Work?

Is high pressure water jetting safe?

For healthy pipes, high-pressure water jetting is absolutely safe, and is actually less invasive than other drain cleaning methods; drain snaking can end up perforating weaker pipes, while taking apart your drains can weaken the structure (while also being a timely and expensive process). 

However, it’s important to note that not all pipes are safe for water jetting. Old pipes, damaged pipes or frail pipes should first be inspected by a plumbing professional before you proceed with water jetting. You should also let your plumber know if you’ve experienced any recent leaks, noises, or groaning in your pipes – this can indicate wear and tear that could worsen if the pipes are then subject to hydro-jetting.

Can I use a drain jet myself?