Hydro-jetting has become one of the most talked-about plumbing solutions in recent years, and for good reason. This high-pressure cleaning method blasts away grease, sludge, and other blockages inside your pipes without the need for harsh chemicals. Along with its growing popularity, however, comes a wave of myths and misunderstandings about what hydro-jetting can actually do.
Let’s set the record straight and take a closer look at what hydro-jetting is really capable of, and where its limits lie.
Myth #1: Hydro-Jetting Isn’t Safe for Older Pipes
Reality: Hydro-jetting can be safe for older plumbing, but only after a proper inspection.
One of the most common concerns is that hydro-jetting is too aggressive for aging or fragile pipes. While it’s true that the process uses high-pressure water, often up to 4,000 PSI, a licensed plumber will never begin the job without a thorough inspection. Using video camera equipment, the condition of the plumbing is evaluated to ensure the system can handle the pressure.
If the pipes are severely corroded, brittle, or already compromised, an alternative solution may be recommended. But in many cases, even older systems can safely benefit from hydro-jetting when performed by trained professionals.
Myth #2: Hydro-Jetting Fixes All Plumbing Problems
Reality: Hydro-jetting is a powerful cleaning method, but it’s not a fix for structural damage.
While it's highly effective at removing grease, sludge, and even some tree roots, hydro-jetting cannot repair cracked, collapsed, or misaligned pipes. When structural damage is present, the most it can do is provide temporary relief from symptoms like slow drains or backups.
Inspection is always the first step. If physical damage to the plumbing is found, repair or replacement may be necessary to prevent more serious problems down the line.
Myth #3: Hydro-Jetting Is Too Harsh for Residential Use
Reality: Hydro-jetting is just as suitable for homes as it is for commercial properties.
Although commonly used in restaurants and commercial buildings, hydro-jetting is a smart choice for residential plumbing systems, too. It’s frequently requested by homeowners dealing with recurring kitchen sink clogs, bathroom backups, or main line obstructions.
When done correctly by a licensed plumber, hydro-jetting is both safe and effective for household drains and can even help extend the life of the system by preventing buildup that causes long-term wear.
Myth #4: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Just as Effective
Reality: Chemical cleaners may offer a quick fix, but they don’t clean your pipes and can cause long-term damage.
Store-bought drain cleaners might clear a clog temporarily, but they rarely remove the buildup lining the pipes. They also contain harsh ingredients that can weaken your plumbing over time and harm the environment.
Hydro-jetting, on the other hand, uses nothing but high-pressure water to fully clean the interior of your pipes, without corrosive chemicals or toxic fumes.
What Hydro-Jetting Can and Can’t Do
Now that the myths are cleared up, it’s important to understand what hydro-jetting is truly designed to do and what it cannot. While it’s a powerful and highly effective drain cleaning solution, it isn’t the right answer for every plumbing problem. Knowing both the strengths and limitations of hydro-jetting can help you decide when it’s the right choice for your plumbing system and when other services may be more appropriate.
What Hydro-Jetting Can Do
When used correctly, hydro-jetting offers a range of benefits that go beyond clearing a single clog. It’s especially useful for maintaining a clean and efficient plumbing system over time.
- Clear grease, soap scum, food debris, and mineral buildup
- Remove small tree roots from sewer lines
- Eliminate foul odors caused by organic waste
- Improve drainage and water flow
- Serve as preventive maintenance for long-term plumbing health
What Hydro-Jetting Can’t Do
Despite its many advantages, hydro-jetting does have its limits. It’s important to recognize the kinds of plumbing problems that require repairs or alternative solutions.
- Repair cracked, collapsed, or misaligned pipes
- Replace old or severely damaged plumbing
- Correct issues caused by poor installation
- Work effectively without a proper inspection beforehand
Protect Your Pipes with Hydro-Jetting by Trained Plumbers
Getting the most out of hydro-jetting starts with working with experienced plumbers. At Awesome Home Services, every hydro-jetting service begins with a full camera inspection to assess the condition of your pipes. When your system is a good candidate, we’ll get to work with precision and care, leaving your plumbing clear and flowing smoothly. If another solution is more appropriate, we’ll explain your options clearly and help you choose the best path forward.
Ready to clear stubborn clogs the right way? Contact Awesome Home Services at (719) 350-3917 to schedule a hydro-jetting consultation with our trusted plumbing professionals.
