Hydro jetting is a professional drain and sewer cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to completely remove blockages and buildup from inside pipes.
Unlike traditional drain snaking, which only creates a small opening through a clog, hydro jetting cleans the full interior diameter of the pipe, restoring proper flow and reducing future clogs.
We at Rhino Rooter, based in West Haven, provide professional hydro jetting, drain cleaning, and sewer maintenance services for residential and commercial properties.
How Hydro Jetting Works
Hydro jetting uses specialized equipment consisting of a high-pressure hose and directional nozzle. Water is released at controlled pressures to flush debris out of the pipe system, not just break through it.
This process is effective at removing:
- Grease and fat buildup from kitchen drain lines
- Soap residue and sludge inside bathroom pipes
- Mineral scale and hardened deposits
- Food waste and organic debris
- Bacteria and biofilm that cause sewer odors
- Fine to moderate tree root intrusion
Because the water cleans the entire pipe wall, hydro jetting restores flow capacity rather than leaving residue behind.
What Is Drain Snaking?
Drain snaking, also known as augering, uses a rotating metal cable to punch through or hook a blockage. This allows water to pass but does not remove buildup stuck to the pipe walls.
Snaking is typically used for:
- Hair clogs
- Paper-based obstructions
- Small, localized drain blockages
- Initial access to a blocked sewer line
While effective for short-term relief, snaking does not prevent recurring clogs caused by grease, sludge, or scale.
Hydro Jetting vs. Snaking: Key Differences
| Feature | Hydro Jetting | Drain Snaking |
| Cleaning method | High-pressure water | Mechanical cable |
| Cleans pipe walls | Yes | No |
| Removes grease & sludge | Yes | Limited |
| Eliminates bacteria buildup | Yes | No |
| Best for recurring clogs | Yes | No |
| Typical results | Long-term | Temporary |
When You Should Use Hydro Jetting Instead of Snaking
Hydro jetting is recommended when you experience:
- Recurring drain clogs
- Slow drains throughout the home
- Grease-related sewer backups
- Main sewer line blockages
- Tree roots entering sewer pipes
- Commercial kitchen drain issues
- Persistent sewer odors
- Drain problems that return shortly after snaking
In these cases, hydro jetting addresses the underlying cause of the blockage, not just the symptom.
When Drain Snaking May Be Enough
Snaking may still be appropriate if:
- The clog is isolated and minor
- The issue is a first-time blockage
- The obstruction is close to the drain opening
In many professional drain cleaning jobs, snaking is used initially to restore flow, followed by hydro jetting for complete pipe cleaning.
Is Hydro Jetting Safe for Pipes?
Yes — when performed by trained professionals and after a sewer camera inspection.
Hydro jetting is safe for:
- PVC and ABS pipes
- Cast iron pipes in good condition
- Clay sewer lines with controlled pressure
It is not recommended for pipes that are collapsed, severely corroded, or structurally compromised.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises against frequent use of chemical drain cleaners due to pipe damage and environmental risks, making water-based cleaning a safer alternative.
Benefits of Hydro Jetting
- Complete interior pipe cleaning
- Chemical-free and environmentally safe
- Helps prevent future drain blockages
- Improves sewer line performance
- Removes odor-causing bacteria
- Supports accurate sewer camera inspections
- Ideal for preventive maintenance programs
The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) recognizes high-pressure water cleaning as a best practice for heavy buildup and commercial drain systems.
Why Choose Rhino Rooter
Rhino Rooter provides professional sewer and drain services throughout West Haven, UT, using the right method for the situation — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Experienced with hydro jetting and traditional drain cleaning
- Uses camera inspections to evaluate pipe condition first
- Services residential and commercial properties
- Local knowledge of Utah sewer systems and infrastructure
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hydro jetting better than snaking?
Yes, for recurring or severe drain issues. Snaking clears a path through a clog, while hydro jetting cleans the entire pipe interior.
Can hydro jetting remove tree roots?
Hydro jetting can break apart and flush out small to moderate root intrusion, though severe root damage may require additional sewer repair.
How often should hydro jetting be done?
Residential systems typically use hydro jetting as needed for major clogs, while commercial or multi-unit buildings may benefit from scheduled maintenance.
Is hydro jetting safe for older pipes?
It can be, as long as the pipes are structurally sound. A sewer camera inspection is essential before jetting older systems.
Does hydro jetting use chemicals?
No. Hydro jetting relies only on high-pressure water, making it an environmentally friendly drain-cleaning option.
Can hydro jetting help prevent future clogs?
Yes. By removing grease, sludge, and buildup from pipe walls, hydro jetting significantly reduces the likelihood of repeat blockages.
Professional Hydro Jetting in West Haven, UT
Because water pressure must be adjusted based on pipe material and condition, hydro jetting should always be performed by licensed professionals.
Rhino Rooter provides expert hydro jetting, sewer cleaning, and drain services throughout West Haven, UT and surrounding areas.
