Skip to main content

How Hydro jetting Works

Written by
Superior Plumbing & Drains, LLC Experts
January 27, 2025
How Hydro jetting Works

Just like any other home appliance or amenity, your residential plumbing system requires regular maintenance to function at its best. Specifically, you need to schedule regular drain cleaning service every 18 to 24 months to remove debris and prevent clogs. Hydrojetting may be just what you need.

Backed up pipes are not only frustrating, but they can be quite costly, as well. In fact, they can cause serious water damage to your home, which can cost thousands of dollars to repair. Unfortunately, homeowners insurance may not cover your entire claim, either.

When you’re researching drain cleaning services, you have likely encountered the phrase “hydrojetting.” However, you may be unsure of what this is or why it is beneficial when compared to traditional drain cleaning practices.

To help you choose the best contracting service for your Charlotte home, we’ll detail everything that you need to know about jetters.

What is a Hydrojetter?

Simply put, a hydrojetter is a specialized drain cleaning device. This tool utilizes a pressurized stream of water to blast away debris within your home’s plumbing system. A jetting service can have your pipes working like new in no time, preventing the need for serious repairs or emergency service visits.

During a jetting service, the contractor will insert the hose into your drain and active the equipment. The jetter will begin blasting away debris. The contractor will carefully feed the hose into your pipes until the entire network has been cleaned. They will likely need to reposition the jetter one or two times during the service to address all of the pipes in your home.

Every jetter will need a fuel source and a water supply. Jetters may be powered by electricity, gasoline, natural gas, or even diesel. The most powerful jetters are typically diesel powered, which are suitable for the widest variety of jobs.

Different Types of Drain Jetters

Drain jetters are a unique plumbing tool that comes in various styles and sizes. Smaller, handheld jetters may be suitable for simple drain cleaning. However, large pipes like your home’s main sewer line will require a more powerful jetter. Commercial jetters are the most versatile form of jetter.

Portable Drain Jetter

A portable drain jetter is a small, handheld plumbing tool. These devices are almost always powered by an electric motor. They are beneficial because a contractor can easily transport it inside your home and place it exactly where it is needed. They are also safe to use indoors because they do not create hazardous fumes.

On the other hand, these types of jetters are not strong enough to unclog large pipes or your main sewer line. Most plumbing contractors rely on heavy-duty jetters, as they are capable of cleaning the pipes throughout your entire residence.

General Plumbing Jetter

Plumbing jetters are also available in a mid-sized model. These jetters are typically mounted to a metal frame and look similar to a pressure washer or portable generator. They have wheels so that a contractor can easily transport them to the necessary location. This type of jetter may be powered by electricity or a traditional fuel source, depending on the model.

High-Pressure Jetter

High-pressure or commercial jetters are the most powerful type of jetter. They are either mounted to a trailer or on the back of a flatbed truck. While these jetters may be powered by one of several fuel sources, diesel powered jetters are extremely popular.

Commercial jetters have hose reels mounted to the trailer. These reels contain hundreds of feet of tubing, allowing the contractor to access drains anywhere on your property with ease. They include several different sizes of hose, depending on which drain is being cleaned.

Alternatives to Pressure Jet Drain Cleaners

The common alternative to jetters are plumbing snakes. This type of drain cleaning service has been around for decades and is a great option for removing a localized clog. However, snakes are inefficient for cleaning your entire plumbing system.

Snakes are long metal tools that are fed into your piping system. The contractor must manipulate the snake within your pipe and manually detect any obstructions. Oftentimes, the contractor will detect and remove large blockages, but may overlook smaller debris.

While jetting services cost a bit more than a traditional pipe cleaning, it is also much more effective. When you have your pipes cleaned with a high powered jetter, all of the debris will be removed, which will leave your pipes working like new.

Benefits of Hydrojetting

Hydrojetting is one of the most efficient means of cleaning your home’s plumbing.  It can help you to avoid major repair costs and frustrating plumbing issues. Not only that, but jetting may also extend the life of your plumbing system.

Jetting is not just good for your home; it is also good for the environment. Since jetters only use pressurized water, there is no harmful runoff to drain into the sewer system.

Line Jetter Services Near Me

If you are ready to take advantage of the many benefits of hydrojetting services, then you need to contact Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC. Our professional and friendly team will get your plumbing system working like new in no time. We use a high-powered diesel jetter to ensure that you get the best cleaning service possible.

Customer Reviews

Why you need our superior services


  • Bobby B.
    Thank you to both Scott and Brendon. They did a great job taking care of my issue. In addition, they went the extra mile to ensure things were work as they should and planned a follow up the next day to ensure everything is still good. I’ve been using Superior Plumbing for over 8 years. I would highly recommend Tim and his team because they care about great customer satisfaction as well as the community!!
  • Patricia H.

    When I needed a plumber due to a water issue at my home, Superior was the only company who not only responded with the quickest appointment time but called to let me know that due to a cancellation they were able to come even sooner. I especially appreciated the text message I received prior to the technician arriving, showing me his picture as well as his name. Walker, the technician, was professional, highly knowledgeable, and …Read All Reviews

  • kathy k.
    Thank you Superior for such prompt, reasonable, professional service when we were without water. You are worthy of your name! We will be sharing our experience at Superior with friends that may need plumbing or well services in the future.
  • Kevin L.
    We discovered a slow water line leak in our home that was starting to damage our flooring so we needed help right away. I did not have prior experience with Superior Plumbing & Drains in the past, but reached out to them for help. They were able to schedule an appointment with me quickly. The responding Technician, Walker, was very professional and courteous and took the time to explain the problem and repair to …Read All Reviews
  • Kristin G.

    I had an emergency plumbing situation in my short-term rental & Superior Plumbing went above and beyond to help me out in a time pinch. The staff was KIND, HONEST, & thorough, without price gouging! I would HIGHLY recommend to anyone!

  • Matt L.
    They were able to respond quickly when our water heater quit working. One of their plumbers came to the house, inspected heater, recommended replacement and explained clearly why he was recommending replacement. He then gave options of different prices and types of heaters. Once we made our choice they completed the work the next day. I would recommend this company without a question.
    Flexible Financing

    Budget-friendly financing for your plumbing needs


    At Superior Plumbing and Drains, LLC, we’re committed to making your plumbing projects affordable and stress-free. That’s why we offer multiple flexible financing options (subject to credit approval) to help you tackle any plumbing need with ease. Explore our financing solutions today and discover convenient ways to manage your next plumbing project!