Pros and Cons of Pipe Cleaning by Hydro Jetting
Dealing with recurring clogs and slow drains can be extremely frustrating for homeowners. This is a common plumbing related problem that not only leads to sewer backups, but may also contaminate the water source for your household. One of the best ways to counter this problem is pipe cleaning by hydro jetting. This non-invasive plumbing solution makes use of high pressure water jets to remove clogs, debris, and build-up. Utilising pressurised water up 4000 PSI, these systems can clear away almost all types of obstructions.
Hydro Jetting Explained
Hydro jetting systems typically comprise of a nozzle, hose, and a machine capable of creating the water pressure. Most importantly the systems don’t use any chemicals, but a lot of water. Also, before deciding to use this cleaning technique, you must carry out a CCTV inspection to ensure that the pipe is in good condition. This is important because older pipelines may get damaged or even break due to the impact of water under high pressure. Also, please be mindful of the fact that hydro jetting will not fix a collapsed drainage pipe. If you have a collapsed pipe, it needs to be replaced.
The assessment of the pipe is done before hydro jetting by something commonly referred to as cleanout. It uses a section of pipe with a cap, providing easy access to the drainage system. The hose and nozzle are inserted via the cleanout into the pipe. Whenever an obstruction is encountered by the nozzle, pressurised water is shoot at it until it breaks-up and gets washed away. Experienced hydro jetting contractors can accurately determine the water pressure required to eliminate obstructions without causing any harm to the pipeline structure. This is why you should only engage experienced contractors to hydro jet your pipes.
Pros and Cons:
Hydro jetting is extremely popular for its many benefits.
- It can handle all types of obstructions including the most stubborn blockages.
- Traditional plumbing snakes can only create holes in obstructions, but can’t clear the pipe interior completely. However, hydro jetting removes everything and leaves the pipes squeaky clean.
- This non-invasive procedure requires no digging.
- This procedure is safe and environment-friendly because no chemicals are used.
- Capable of eliminating tree roots easily before they can cause any serious damage.
Though hydro jetting is extremely effective, it still has some drawbacks.
- Frail and older pipes should not be hydro jetted because pressurised water can damage them severely.
- Unlike snaking, hydro jetting is not a DIY project and it should only be performed by trained professionals.
- Though hydro jetting is a green technology, it does use loads of water. Therefore, it may not be the most appropriate cleaning alternative in areas that have a shortage of water.
When to Use Hydro Jetting?
When we have a clogged drain, the first thing we reach for is usually a plunger. If it doesn’t work, most of us give snaking a try. Hydro jetting is used for the removal of stubborn blockages that can’t be removed by other methods. However, it is a good idea to jet your pipes on a regular basis, particularly if your drainage system handles lots of grease, oil, fat, tree roots, etc.
To find out more about hydro jetting, please contact us at Austeck. Our high pressure jetters are suitable for manholes, sewer pipes, drains, and laterals.