Here’s the truth: having your plumber or drain contractor on speed dial is NOT enough.
Aside from knowing who to call, it’s equally important to understand what services you need. For instance, hydro jetting is arguably the best step forward when dealing with clogged drains.
Hydro jetting uses pressurized water to clear drain clogs. It uses a specialized machine and nozzle that emits water at high pressures. This technique allows for thoroughly cleaning the pipes, not just clearing out a clog. And it works for a variety of pipes and types of blockages, making it an ideal alternative to DIY methods.
“Okay, that’s all well and good, but how much does hydro jetting cost in the US?“
For most homeowners, the price is often the deal breaker when buying products and services. Unfortunately, most plumbers and drain specialists will dodge the “how much does hydro jetting cost” question or give run-around answers.
That ends today.
Stay tuned because, in this article, Drain Magic answers this age-old inquiry.
So, How Much Does Hydro Jetting Cost in the US?
On average, the cost could be as low as $300 for simple drain clogs. It could also spike to about $1100 for more complex hydro jetting projects. But this value can still skyrocket depending on various factors.
For instance, a hydro jetting service is more expensive in commercial than residential homes. Commercial sites usually have larger plumbing systems, increasing the complexity and safety concerns surrounding the project.
Below, we’ll take a look at factors that may increase the cost of hydro jetting:
Factors affecting hydro jet drain cleaning cost
Not all drains are created equal. Some might be quick fixes, but others require more effort from drain experts. Here are the factors to consider:
1. Severity of the clog
Clogs can range from nasty grease deposits to extreme root intrusion. The more severe the drain clog, the higher fees you have to pay.
Drain specialists can clear minor blocks relatively quickly. That means it takes lesser time and labor to complete the service. Meanwhile, stubborn clogs are more labor-intensive and may require increased water pressure to eliminate.
2. Accessibility
If the clog is accessible via an open drain or cleanout, the setup and equipment for hydro jetting are relatively straightforward. Contractors simply perform a sewer camera inspection to locate the clog and then render the service.
However, the absence of an access point contributes to a higher cost.
For example, clogs in hard-to-reach or confined spaces, like underground pipes or within walls, require additional effort. In many situations, our team digs a small hole to gain access to the clog.
This increased complexity and setup affect the cost of hydro jetting.
5. Potential repair costs
While hydro jetting is a tried-and-true solution to drain clogs, some blocks are impossible to remove. Even with the highest water pressure settings, the sewer jetter might not clear them.
A good example is when homeowners deal with extremely busted or dislodged pipes due to gravity and overground pressure. In this scenario, no foreign object is causing the clog.
Pipe bursting is the trenchless, cost-effective and non-invasive approach to deal with this type of damage. Otherwise, pursuing traditional pipe installation practices puts you at a higher risk of spending more.
However, there are also situations when hydro jetting works but leaves the pipes vulnerable to more damage. For instance, while hydro jetting eliminates intrusive roots, it still leaves the roots’ entry points along the pipe walls. These exposed cracks may give rise to future problems in your plumbing system.
We recommend pipe relining to seal off the cracks in cases of heavy root intrusion. This process involves inserting a flexible polymer-based pipe to create a new layer within the existing tubes.
Is hydro jetting really worth it?
All things considered, hydro jetting, is worth it. Hydro jetting is the next best option after trying all DIY clog removal solutions in the playbook.
It’s important to note that good plumbers or drain contractors will not perform hydro jetting immediately. They will inspect your pipelines first to see if a hydro jet service is applicable.
Our pros at Drain Magic use remote robotics to examine plumbing systems. This allows us to check sewer lines without any property damage to community disturbance.
Is Hydro Jetting Safe for All Types of Pipes?
Hydro jetting is generally safe for all types of pipe, provided they are in good condition. Whether you have PVC, cast iron, copper or concrete pipes, hydro jetting is a viable solution to blockages.
However, it’s vital to consider their structural integrity before spraying your way through clogs.
The high-pressure water may worsen the issue if your pipes are old, weakened, cracked or damaged. We advise homeowners to seek a professional’s help before proceeding with hydro jetting.
A good drain specialist can assess the condition of your pipe. They are also equipped to gauge the correct pressure settings and implement proper techniques for the service.
At Drain Magic, we make sure our clients get the best service possible. We only proceed with spraying pressurized liquid in the drains after professional inspection. On the off chance that hydro jetting is not possible, our team presents other viable options to the client.
For residential homeowners in South Central Pennsylvania that need hydro jetting services, we can help. If you live in the area, feel free to book an appointment.
