Why prep matters for jetting
A jetting visit involves more equipment than a quick cable clearing: a pump, a long hose, nozzles, often a camera and a water source. Most of the time on a typical visit is spent finding access, moving things out of the way and getting set up.
If you can hand the plumber a clear path to the cleanout, a working outdoor faucet and a short history of the problem, the visit can focus on the pipe itself.
The day before
- Find the outdoor sewer cleanout and clear plants, mulch, pots or stored items around it.
- Check that the nearest outdoor faucet works and is not blocked by hoses or furniture.
- Clear a path from the street or driveway to the cleanout for hoses and equipment.
- Clear under the kitchen sink if the kitchen line may be cleaned.
- Note which toilets or fixtures are closest to the front of the house.
- Gather any past invoices, camera footage or reports.
The day of the visit
- Secure pets indoors or away from the work area.
- Keep children away from the cleanout while equipment runs.
- Avoid running laundry, dishwasher or showers during the work.
- Have your drain symptom log or notes handy.
- Plan to be available to watch the camera footage and ask questions.
What to tell the plumber when they arrive
- Age of the house
- Approximate year built, if known
- Problem fixtures
- Which drains, and in what order
- Past work
- Previous clearings, camera work or repairs
- Chemicals
- Any drain products used recently
- Trees
- Large trees near the likely sewer path
Questions to settle before work starts
- Will you camera the line before jetting?
- Can I keep the footage?
- What is included in the price, and what would change it?
- What is your CSLB license number?
Common questions
Do I need to be home during jetting?
It helps. You can show access points, watch the camera footage and approve any change in scope.
Will the plumber need my water?
Some jetters draw from an outdoor faucet. Ask ahead so you can make sure one is working.
Should I run water to test before they arrive?
If drains are backing up, no. Running water only makes a backup worse.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.