What is Hydro Jetting, and How Does it Remove Clogs?
Hydro jetting is a powerful and effective drain cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to remove blockages and buildup from pipes. This process involves a specialized machine that pumps water through a hose and into the affected drain or sewer line at extremely high pressure, up to 3500 pounds per inch (psi). Depending on the obstruction will determine what nozzle your plumbing professional will use. They will equip the jetter with a nozzle that can direct the stream in multiple directions, ensuring thorough cleaning while removing obstruction.
Beware Homeowners: Not all Hydro Jetters are the same!
Hydro jetters are versatile and powerful tools for drain and sewer cleaning, providing effective solutions to various plumbing challenges. These devices come in a range of shapes, sizes, and power configurations to cater to different needs and requirements. In this article, we will explore the diversity of hydro jetters, discussing how they vary in terms of their design, size, and the power they deliver.
So, it’s important to ask your plumbing company the right questions concerning hydro jetting. Sometimes, a plumbing company may show up at your home with a machine resembling a pressure washer. For clogged drains that are difficult to remove, you need a powerful hydro jetter that will do the job.
Truck-Mounted Hydro Jetters
Truck-mounted hydro jetters are larger and more powerful units installed on service trucks. Plumbers use these powerful jetters to clear the most difficult residential and commercial drains. They provide the highest water pressure to eliminate clogs without resistance. The truck-mounted design allows for greater mobility and extended reach, making them ideal for tackling extensive sewer lines and municipal projects.
Trailer-Mounted Hydro Jetters
Trailer-mounted hydro jetters are a middle-ground option between portable and truck-mounted units. They are mounted on trailers and towed to job sites. These jetters offer a balance between power and mobility, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, including medium-sized commercial and municipal projects.
The Size of the Jetter is Determined by its Tank Capacity and the Power of its Pump
Hydro jetters come in different sizes to match the specific needs of various applications. The size of a hydro jetter is often determined by its tank capacity and the power of its pump. Here are some size categories:
Compact Hydro Jetters
Compact hydro jetters are smaller units designed for residential and light commercial use. They typically have a lower tank capacity and less powerful pumps. These jetters are suitable for clearing minor drain clogs and maintaining small-scale plumbing systems.
Medium-Sized Hydro Jetters
Medium-sized hydro jetters strike a balance between power and portability. They are often used by plumbers and contractors for various tasks, including clearing main sewer lines, removing tree roots, and tackling stubborn blockages in commercial settings. These units offer higher tank capacity and pump power than compact jetters.
Large Hydro Jetters
Large hydro jetters are heavy-duty machines designed for industrial and municipal applications. They have significant tank capacity and powerful pumps capable of delivering high water pressure and flow rates. Plumbers use large jetters to clear extensive sewer lines, maintain municipal infrastructure, and do heavy industrial cleaning. These jetters can also clear heavily blocked residential drains as well.
The Benefits of Hydro-Jetting
Thorough Cleaning
One of the primary advantages of hydro-jetting is its ability to thoroughly and completely clean your drains. The high-pressure water stream can dislodge and remove even the most stubborn blockages, including tree roots and mineral deposits. Unlike traditional methods that may only clear a small opening through the obstruction, hydro-jetting can completely eliminate the problem, allowing for better water flow and preventing future clogs.
Power Options of Hydro Jetters
The jetters pump will determine the power, which generates the high-pressure water stream needed for effective cleaning. Hydro jetters come with various power options to suit different requirements:
Electric Hydro Jetters
Electrically powered hydro jetters are commonly used for residential and light commercial applications. They are relatively quieter and emit no exhaust fumes, making them suitable for indoor use. While they may have slightly lower power compared to their gas-powered counterparts, electric jetters are efficient for many drain-cleaning tasks.
Gas-Powered Hydro Jetters
Gas-powered hydro jetters use gasoline to power their engines. These jetters offer higher mobility and are designed for outdoor settings where access to electricity may be limited. Often favored for heavy-duty applications, such as clearing large sewer lines and tackling stubborn blockages.
Diesel-Powered Hydro Jetters
Diesel-powered hydro jetters are known for their robust performance and durability. While commonly used in industrial and municipal applications due to their ability to generate high water pressure flow rates. Diesel jetters are suitable for handling demanding tasks, such as cleaning municipal sewers and maintaining large-scale industrial facilities.
Environmentally Friendly
Unlike chemical drain cleaners that contain harsh and potentially harmful chemicals, hydro-jetting is an environmentally friendly option. It relies solely on the power of pressurized water to clean your drains, making it a safe and sustainable choice. No toxic fumes or chemicals are being released into the environment, making it a responsible choice for homeowners and businesses concerned about their ecological footprint.
Long-Lasting Results
When you choose hydro-jetting for drain cleaning, you can expect long-lasting results. Since it effectively removes all blockages and buildup from your pipes, it reduces the likelihood of future clogs. This means fewer instances of slow drains and backups, saving you both time and money in the long run. While traditional methods may offer temporary relief, hydro-jetting provides a more permanent solution to your drainage problems.
Safe for Your Pipes
Unlike snaking, which can sometimes damage your pipes or push debris further down the line, hydro-jetting is a safe method for your plumbing system. The high-pressure water stream is powerful enough to clear obstructions but gentle on your pipes. It won’t cause any damage or create weak points in your plumbing, ensuring the integrity of your system remains intact.
Improved Drainage
Hydro-jetting not only removes existing blockages but also cleans the inner walls of your pipes. This results in improved drainage and better water flow throughout your plumbing system. As a result, you will notice faster-draining sinks, showers, and toilets. Improved drainage can also reduce the risk of water damage to your home or property, as water will flow away from fixtures more efficiently.
Healthier Plumbing
Regular hydro-jetting can contribute to the overall health of your plumbing system. By keeping your pipes clean and debris-free, you can extend their lifespan and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements. This proactive approach to maintenance can save you significant money in the long term by preventing major plumbing issues.
Odor Control
Blocked drains often lead to unpleasant odors in your home or business. Hydro-jetting clears the blockages causing these odors and washes away any lingering bacteria or organic matter. This results in a fresher and more pleasant-smelling environment, improving the overall comfort of your space.
Versatility
Hydro-jetting is a versatile method used for both residential and commercial drain cleaning. Whether you have a small clog in your kitchen sink or need to clear a sewer line in a commercial building, hydro-jetting can handle the job. Its adaptability and effectiveness make it a preferred choice for many property owners and plumbing professionals.
Hydro Jetting Benefits Make it a Valuable Investment for Homeowners
Hydro-jetting is a powerful and environmentally friendly solution for drains and sewer line issues. Its ability to provide thorough cleaning, long-lasting results, and improved drainage makes it a top choice for maintaining healthy plumbing systems. Additionally, its safety for pipes, versatility, and odor control benefits make it a valuable investment for homeowners and businesses alike.
If you’re experiencing frequent drain problems or want to proactively maintain your plumbing system, consider the benefits of hydro-jetting. By choosing this method, you can ensure that your drains remain blockage-free and your plumbing system functions efficiently for many years. Say goodbye to clogged drains and hello to the many advantages of hydro-jetting.
