How jetting works
A jetter pushes water through a hose to a nozzle with jets pointing backward and sometimes forward. The rear jets pull the hose along the pipe while scouring the walls, so the grease that a cable would only pierce is washed away down the line.
Because it cleans the whole circumference, jetting can return a grease-coated kitchen line closer to its full opening. The tradeoff is that high pressure in old, cracked or heavily corroded pipe can make an existing weakness worse, so the pipe's condition matters.
Jetting or another cable run
| Jetting makes sense when | A cable may be the better call when |
|---|---|
| The line clogs with grease every few months | It is a first-time clog near the trap |
| A cable restores flow but it does not last | The pipe is badly corroded or already cracked |
| There is a suitable access point such as a cleanout | There is no safe access for the jetting hose |
| The pipe looks sound on a camera inspection | A camera has not checked a line with known problems |
What a jetting visit usually involves
Find access
The plumber locates a cleanout or opens the trap arm to feed the hose.
Check the pipe
On older lines, a camera look first helps confirm the pipe can take the pressure.
Protect the kitchen
Cabinets and floors are covered; the sink and dishwasher are kept out of use.
Jet the line
The nozzle is worked down the line and pulled back slowly to scour the walls.
Test the flow
Both basins, the disposal and a dishwasher cycle are run to confirm drainage.
Questions to ask about jetting
- Why is jetting better than a cable for my line?
- Where will you access the line, and will anything need to be opened?
- Will you inspect the pipe with a camera before or after?
- What will you do if the pipe is damaged during the work?
- How do you price the work, and is that in writing before you start?
Common questions
Is hydro jetting safe for all pipes?
Not automatically. Sound pipe usually handles it, but cracked, badly corroded or poorly joined pipe can be harmed. That is why many plumbers want to see the line first.
Will jetting stop kitchen clogs for good?
It removes the buildup that is there, but new grease will start a new coating. Keeping fats, oils and grease out of the drain is what makes the result last.
Can jetting be done from the kitchen sink?
Sometimes through the trap arm, depending on the setup. A cleanout gives better access. The plumber will explain where the hose needs to go.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.