If you have a clogged drain, the first thing you might consider doing is flushing hot water down the drain. However, other DIY measures you may think of include using a plunger or flushing over-the-counter chemicals through the drains. You should consider hydro jetting if all these measures fail to unclog your drains. Here is a guideline of what hydro jetting is all about.
What Does Hydro Jetting Involve?
Hydro jetting involves the use of special equipment called a jetter. This equipment consists of a hose, tank of water, nozzle, and a device that pressurizes water. The nozzle comes in different shapes depending on the drain's size and the clog's composition. For example, a chisel-type nozzle cuts through hard blockages like ice, roots, and solid buildup.
What Are the Hydro Jetting Procedures?
First, before the plumber starts hydro jetting, they must inspect the drains. The plumber will insert a camera in the drains to check the condition of the piping.
This inspection allows the plumber to calibrate the hydro jetting system for water flow, pressure, and spray pattern depending on the deterioration of the pipes and the buildup being removed. The plumbers will also use their analysis to choose the most efficient point of accessing the affected area. For example, the technician may choose the roof vent or clean-out.
The final step involves dropping the hoses into the access points and activating the jetting equipment. The equipment can pressurize the water up to 35,000 psi. However, the pressure needs to be adjusted based on the clog and the condition of the drains to avoid extensive damage.
The water will run through the plumbing system freeing the pipes of heavy clogs and buildup. Finally, the hydro jet will dislodge the debris from the walls of the pipes and lead it out of the plumbing system.
Is Hydro Jetting a DIY Project?
Hydro jetting costs are between $350 and $600, depending on the severity of the clog. In an attempt to avoid the high costs of hydro jetting, some homeowners attempt to perform hydro jetting on their own.
Professionals who engage in hydro jetting wear special gear to protect them during the procedure. Furthermore, it takes skill to determine how to calibrate the equipment and how much pressure to use.
Hydro jetting on your own may lead to unexpected complications. For example, a tree branch can interfere with the unclogging process. This is why professionals use state-of-art cameras to view the condition of drains and pipes before engaging in hydro jetting.
If you have more questions about hydro jetting, contact a local plumbing service.