You've had the same drain professionally snaked three times in two years and it keeps clogging. Sound familiar? If so, you may need hydro jetting — the gold standard for removing years of accumulated grease, scale, and root intrusions that a snake simply can't reach.
What Is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting is a pipe-cleaning method that uses a specialized machine to push water at pressures up to 4,000 PSI through your pipes via a multi-directional nozzle. This high-pressure stream doesn't just push a clog through — it scours the entire interior pipe wall clean, leaving it as clear as it was the day it was installed.
What Hydro Jetting Removes
- Grease and fat buildup: The leading cause of kitchen drain clogs — layers that drain snakes can't fully clear
- Mineral scale: Hard water deposits (calcium and magnesium) that narrow your pipe diameter over time
- Tree root intrusions: Small root masses that have grown into the pipe joints
- Sediment and debris: Sand, dirt, and organic material in main sewer lines
- Soap scum and hair: Bathroom drain buildup that creates sticky blockages
Hydro Jetting vs. Drain Snaking: Which Do You Need?
Use a Drain Snake When:
- You have a single, localized clog (e.g., hair in one shower drain)
- The blockage is close to the drain opening
- The pipe is older and may be fragile — a camera inspection comes first
Use Hydro Jetting When:
- Snaking hasn't resolved the problem long-term
- You have grease buildup in kitchen lines (restaurants, busy home kitchens)
- Multiple drains are slow — main line buildup is the likely cause
- You've had recurring clogs in the same drain more than twice a year
- You're buying a home and want the sewer lines professionally cleaned before move-in
Is Hydro Jetting Safe for My Pipes?
For PVC, ABS, and well-maintained copper or cast iron pipes, hydro jetting is completely safe when performed by a licensed plumber who conducts a camera inspection first. We would not recommend it for severely corroded or cracked pipes where the water pressure could cause further damage — in those cases, we'll recommend a repair or repipe first.
How Long Does It Last?
A professional hydro jet cleaning typically keeps main sewer lines clear for 1–3 years, depending on usage and what caused the buildup. Many homeowners schedule it annually as preventive maintenance — it's far cheaper than emergency service calls.
Tired of recurring drain problems? Call Prestige Plumbing Services at (818) 688-1595 for professional hydro jetting in Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, and the surrounding San Fernando Valley. We'll camera-inspect your lines first and give you an honest assessment.
