Clogged drains are a nasty problem to deal with. If your drains haven’t cleared up even after snaking them, hydro jetting is your next best step.
Not only is it effective, it’s fast, too. Most residential jobs take just 60 to 90 minutes; the most severe clogs, and commercial jobs, take between two and four hours.
| Type of Job | Typical Usage | Pressure Level | Recommended for | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential | Home plumbing, drain cleaning | Medium (2,000 to 4,000 PSI) | Clearing household drains, sewer lines | Smaller pipes, debris buildup |
| Commercial | Restaurants, businesses, large buildings | High (4,000 to 6,000 PSI) | Maintaining clean pipelines in high-traffic areas | Heavy usage, grease, debris buildup |
| Grease | Kitchen drain lines, restaurants | High (4,000 to 6,000 PSI) | Clearing out thick grease deposits from pipes | Hardened, built-up grease |
| Severe roots | Tree root intrusion in sewer lines | Very high (5,000+ PSI) | Breaking up and flushing out invasive roots in sewer systems | Thick roots |
What is Hydro Jetting and Why is it Used?
Hydro jetting, sometimes called water jetting, is a way to clean clogged drains and sewer lines that are resistant to snaking and other attempts to clear them out. Our punctual plumbers use this high-pressure scouring methods to remove grease, scale, tree roots, sludge, and more.
How do you know if you need hydro jetting? Watch out for these common signs:
- Slow drains
- Gurgling from the drain
- Recurring, resistant clogs
- Foul odors
Factors That Affect How Long Hydro Jetting Takes
Severity and Type of Clog
Severe clogs, such as dense roots and compacted debris, require more attention and time to clear out compared to lighter clogs. Similarly, older homes have more delicate pipes that require care.
Length and Layout of Your Plumbing System
Multi-family homes and apartment complexes have more pipes, and commercial properties may have especially complicated pipe networks.
Pipe Size and Material
Narrow PVC pipes are more durable and can withstand higher jetting pressures, whereas older pipes made of materials like cast iron are susceptible to corrosion.
Need for Camera Inspection
Video inspections allow us to accurately diagnose the cause and severity of the problem without compromising the safety of the pipes. On average, this only adds 15 to 30 minutes to the job.
Accessibility of Clean-Out Point
The harder it is to reach the plumbing, the longer it takes to finish.
Is Hydro Jetting a Same-Day Service?
Yes! Our punctual plumbers can be in and out of your home in under two hours for most residential jobs.
In some cases, like with major root intrusion or broken and corroded pipes, hydro jetting takes longer, in which case we will schedule service on a different day to get started early.
Rarely, the most severe clogs take more than one day of hydro jetting. Regular drain cleaning, proper waste disposal, and avoiding chemical cleaners can help avoid this scenario.
How Long Will It Last Afterward?
In most cases, hydro jetting keeps your pipes clog free for 12 to 18 months (or more!). Jetting lasts longer than snaking because it actually clears them out in full.
That said, it’s just as important for property owners to do their part to keep the plumbing running at peak condition. That means:
- No pouring grease down the drains
- Scheduling annual inspections
- Choosing enzyme cleaners over harsh chemicals
Hydro Jetting Time Vs. Other Drain Cleaning Methods
Snaking
Snaking is the fastest way to clear out a minor clog, but if it’s too far down or compacted, it won’t get the job done.
Time-to-Effectiveness Rating: 3/10
Chemical drain cleaners
Chemical cleaners can take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on how severe the clog is. The pipe material may also not be able to withstand the corrosion.
Time-to-Effectiveness Rating: 1/10
Hydro jetting
On average, it takes up to two hours to set up, inspect, and clean the pipes. It takes the longest amount of time, but it’s the most thorough.
Time-to-Effectiveness Rating: 9/10
Can Hydro Jetting damage Pipes If It Takes Too Long?
Because of its high pressure, hydro jetting can damage pipes if it’s done for too long. That’s why it’s important to hire a professional, licensed plumber to get the job done.
With a hydro jetting service, most of the time spent is on accurately diagnosing and pinpointing the source of the problem, minimizing the risk involved with scouring water through the system.
FAQs About Hydro Jetting Time
Does hydro jetting take longer for restaurants?
Sometimes. It depends on the complexity of the pipe network and whether or not grease has been poured down the drains.
How fast is the water pressure?
Depending on the nature of the clog, hydro jetting can spray at a rate of 2,000 to 5,000 PSI or more.
What causes a jetting job to take longer than expected?
Severe clogs, compacted debris, fragile pipes, and complicated piping networks.
When to Call a Pro and What to Expect
If you experience any of the symptoms described above, don’t hesitate to call a professional right away. Clear a path to any access points and be clear about any past plumbing issues.
Upon arrival, our technician will inspect the pipes, explain what is needed, and clean the pipes with your consent. In most cases, our punctual plumbers are finished in under two hours from arrival to departure!
Final Thoughts
Hydro jetting is a fast and effective way to ensure your pipes are as clean as they can be. Most jobs take 60 to 90 minutes, and choosing an experienced plumber ensures faster and safer service.
Need a fast, professional hydro jetting service in Tampa, FL? Contact us today—clogs are gone in under 2 hours! We also offer emergency same-day service and free camera inspection.