What Is Sewer Jetting?

Sewer jetting is a professional pipe-cleaning process. A technician feeds a flexible hose and specialized nozzle into the sewer line. The nozzle releases high-pressure water that breaks apart obstructions and flushes them away. The jet also scours the inner pipe walls, removing residue so flow returns to normal.

How Sewer Jetting Works

1. Access: The hose enters through a cleanout, toilet access, rooftop vent, or crawl space access point.
2. Jet Action: Water exits the nozzle in forward and rear jets to cut, lift, and carry debris downstream.
3. Scouring: The high-pressure stream scrubs grease, sludge, roots, and mineral buildup off the pipe walls.
4. Rinse and Verify: Lines are flushed. A follow-up camera inspection often confirms results.

Cast Iron Descaling

Older cast iron pipes often develop heavy scale—rust and mineral deposits that reduce the pipe’s diameter and cause slow drains. Hydro jetting is a key method for descaling cast iron. It breaks apart hardened buildup and helps restore capacity. The result is smoother interior walls, better flow, and less risk of new clogs.

Sewer Rooting

Tree roots seek moisture and can enter pipe joints and cracks. This intrusion blocks flow and may damage the line. With specialized cutting nozzles, jetting can remove roots and flush them from the system. For severe cases, a mechanical rooter may be used before or after jetting to fully clear the obstruction.

Key Benefits of Sewer Jetting

• Thorough cleaning: Removes grease, sludge, scale, and roots—not just the immediate clog.
• Prevention: Regular maintenance reduces backups, water damage, and emergency calls.
• Eco-friendly: Uses water only; no harsh chemicals are needed.
• Effective on tough blockages: Handles grease, heavy scaling, and intrusive roots.
• Cost-smart: Replacing a sewer line can cost $4,000–$25,000. Maintenance helps avoid major repairs.

Common Applications

• Clearing kitchen and main lines with heavy grease buildup
• Maintenance for restaurants, apartments, and industrial facilities
• Descaling cast iron to improve drainage efficiency
• Removing tree roots that compromise underground sewer systems

Inspections First: Know the Condition of Your Line

Before or after jetting, a sewer camera inspection shows the true condition of the pipe. It documents cracks, offsets, bellies, roots, and corrosion so you can choose the right next step.

Safe Investment Home Inspections does inspections only. We do not perform sewer cleaning or any type of repairs to avoid conflicts of interest.

Frequently Asked Questions