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Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting cleans an accessible sewer or drain line with pressurized water. A hose and nozzle move through the line, loosen buildup, and flush it out. It is a cleaning method, not a repair, and it works best when someone has looked at the line first.

  • Cleaning for accessible residential sewer and drain lines
  • Camera inspection before or after cleaning, when included
  • Line locating, when in scope
  • Clear findings, with no repair sales

This service is designed for accessible residential sewer and drain lines. Equipment selection and available service depend on the entry point, pipe size, line condition, and scope of work. We provide cleaning, camera diagnostics, and line locating only. We do not provide sewer repair, replacement, lining, excavation, or pipe installation.

What is hydro jetting?

Hydro jetting is a way to clean a sewer or drain line using a pump, a hose, and a nozzle that sends pressurized water through the pipe. The hose moves forward through buildup, then scours the pipe wall and flushes debris out as it is pulled back.

It is one of the methods used in sewer cleaning.

Whether jetting is the right method on a given visit depends on the line and the technician’s assessment.

Hydro jetting hose and equipment staged at an exterior sewer cleanout

When might a line need cleaning?

Common signs include:

  1. Slow drains in more than one fixture

  2. Gurgling from a toilet or tub when another fixture drains

  3. Sewage smell near a drain or cleanout

  4. Water backing up in a floor drain, tub, or lowest fixture

  5. A drain that clears and then slows again

These signs point to a restriction somewhere, but they do not prove what or where it is. A single slow sink is often a drain cleaning question. Several slow drains, or a backup that returns, is worth looking at in the main line. If it keeps coming back, see recurring sewer backup diagnosis.

What can cleaning address, and what can it not?

Cleaning may help with

  • Grease and soap buildup
  • Debris and wipes caught in the line
  • Roots that are loose or accessible
  • General buildup on the pipe wall

Cleaning does not correct

  • A cracked or broken pipe
  • An offset or separated joint
  • A collapsed section
  • A belly or low spot that holds water

If a line is cleaned and the problem returns, the cause may be something cleaning cannot remove. That is the reason to see the inside of the pipe.

How does a hydro jetting visit work?

  1. Step 1: Review the access point

    We look at where the line can be reached. A cleanout is the common entry point.

  2. Step 2: Look at the line, when included

    A camera shows the pipe’s interior and helps pick the method. Pipe material, size, length, and visible defects all matter.

  3. Step 3: Choose nozzle and settings

    These depend on what the line looks like and what is in it. Our equipment includes the Mongoose 184LT trailer-mounted sewer jetter.

  4. Step 4: Jet the line

    Water moves through the hose and nozzle. More water is not automatically better, and extra water can add to a backup, so the work is paced to the line.

  5. Step 5: Check the result, when included

    A second look shows what was removed and what remains.

Hydro jetting equipment beside an accessible exterior cleanout

Preparing for the visit

  • Clear the area around the cleanout and tell us about recent backups.
  • Ask us what else to do for your property.

Camera first, or cleaning first?

A camera inspection answers "what is in the line." Cleaning answers "can this be removed." Each is useful on its own, and they work well together.

If what we see goes beyond cleaning, we will say so plainly. Further evaluation may be appropriate outside our cleaning and diagnostic scope.

What a camera cannot show

It sees the interior of the pipe above the waterline. It cannot show wall thickness, structural strength, soil support, the outside of the pipe, or voids. Debris and tight bends can stop it from traveling, and standing water can hide what is behind a blockage. Findings apply only to the length that was surveyed.

Where to start

  • If the line is slow or backing up and you want it cleared, cleaning may be the first step, with a camera used to guide it.
  • If the cause is unknown or the problem keeps returning, start with a sewer camera inspection.
  • If you want both in one visit, ask about cleaning with camera inspection.

Independent by design

We clean, inspect, and locate. We do not repair or replace sewer lines, so nothing we find is tied to a repair job. If you have been told a line needs major work and want clear evidence first, see independent sewer inspection.

Hydro jetting vs. cable cleaning

Hydro jetting compared with cable cleaning
Compared onHydro jettingCable cleaning
How it works (this page)Pressurized water through a hose and nozzleA rotating cable with a cutting head
Tool category (this page)Water-basedMechanical
Typical use (this page)Buildup along the pipe wall, loose debrisClearing a blockage in the line

These are different tools for different conditions, and neither is “better” in every case. The right choice depends on the line and what is in it. For the full comparison, see hydro jetting vs. snaking.

What to ask for and keep

Ask what is included before you book, and keep a record of it:

  1. When a camera is used, you receive the inspection video. Is it before or after cleaning?

  2. Written findings are included. Do they note any part of the line that could not be viewed?

  3. What was removed, and what remained?

  4. What was seen that cleaning cannot address?

Who this page is for

  • Homeowners

    With slow drains, backups, or a line that keeps clogging.

  • Landlords and small property owners

    Who want a line cleaned and documented.

  • Home buyers and sellers

    Cleaning is not an inspection. Start with a pre-purchase sewer inspection.

  • Agents and home inspectors

    Who want a clear next step when a line is questionable.

Where we provide hydro jetting

This page covers hydro jetting for all three markets we serve. These are service areas, not office locations. Each market has its own page with local details.

Map of the St. Louis metropolitan area

St. Louis, MO

Local details for the St. Louis area.

Map of San Diego County and the surrounding coast

San Diego, CA

Local details for the San Diego area.

Map of the Las Vegas valley

Las Vegas, NV

Local details for the Las Vegas area.

What our customers say

4.9 out of 5from 595 Google reviews · as of

  • Brenna Race

    Google · 6 years ago

    Very punctual and professional, and gave me a great explanation of exactly what we were seeing on the scope. As a first time homebuyer, I really appreciated this! The fact that they don't do repairs themselves, so they're obviously not out there making up problems to get more money, is an added bonus for me. Will definitely be calling them if I ever need them again!
    View on Google, review by Brenna Race
  • Laura Ribeiro

    Google · a year ago

    Rated 5 out of 5 on Google

    When working with Steven of Sewer Pros, I felt like he actually cared about our sewer situation and making sure that issues were resolved and prevented in the future. He also discouraged me from doing unnecessary, costly procedures and provided money-saving advice for maintaining our sewer. I would highly recommend!
    View on Google, review by Laura Ribeiro
  • Janet Rhodes

    Google · 5 years ago

    Wow, thank goodness for The Sewer Pros. I was recommended by two others for a second opinion. Thank goodness I did. Andrew was able to work his magic to find the source of the problem under the house and freed it up and then additionally found further blockage caused by tree roots in the back yard. This saved us considerable costs and aggravation. He was most pleasant, patient and professional and went beyond my expectations. In addition, the company itself took us step by step through possible causes and were very informative. If you are looking for sewer "pros" look no further than The Sewer Pros! They are the best. Thank you so much.
    View on Google, review by Janet Rhodes
  • Nadine Risman

    Google · 3 years ago

    They showed up and performed the service as requested. The pictures and video were great and I didn't know I would be getting such an extensive report. They also didn't try to up sell me on the services they offer.
    View on Google, review by Nadine Risman
  • Christy Christensen-Walls

    Google · 6 years ago

    Mark is a great inspector that provides very informative feedback and his videos as excellent. I am a real estate agent and your company with Mark attached to it is always recommended to my clients for superior work and customer service. Everyone at the office is always helpful when I need contact information for plumbing companies for my clients to seek out to bid work that needs to be done beyond sewer pros scope of work and for this I am grateful. Keep doing what you are doing and I will continue to be a customer and recommend your company to my clients.
    View on Google, review by Christy Christensen-Walls
  • Yu Ma

    Google · 3 months ago

    Rated 5 out of 5 on Google

    Our house has a history of basement sewer line clogs caused by kitchen backups. Since 2019, we have had to snake the sewer line at least once a year. This time, we decided to hire Sewer Pros to perform both a sewer line cleaning and a camera inspection. Steve ran a cable with a camera from the kitchen stack approximately 40 feet through the line with a chain cutter, and successfully removed a large amount of hardened grease and debris. After the cleaning, the sewer line was clear and flowing freely. Throughout the entire process, Steve was very professional and took the time to explain in detail how everything worked. To my surprise, I was charged only for the cleaning service, and the price was even lower than what we paid back in 2019. I cannot thank Steve enough for his excellent work and honesty. I highly recommend this company.
    View on Google, review by Yu Ma
  • Jason and Kris Handy-KrausLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    Rated 5 out of 5 on Google

    I wanted to let you know that you have a great employee and good human in Steve. Not only did he complete the job quickly and professionally, he allowed me to see my lines were clear, helped give me sound advice on future needs, and saved us a ridiculous amount of money. Your company will always be our first call in the future and you will be highly recommended to all of my family and friends
    View on Google, review by Jason and Kris Handy-Kraus
  • Sean DePass

    Google · a year ago

    Rated 5 out of 5 on Google

    Working with Steven was great! He is super knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything to me. He had a bunch of great recommendations on how to avoid issues in the future. They are a professional company that is wonderful to work with.
    View on Google, review by Sean DePass
  • Katya R

    Google · a year ago

    Rated 5 out of 5 on Google

    Clayton conducted the sewer lateral inspection on a home for me. He arrived on time and did a thorough inspection. He explained everything in detail and had the report available in a timely manner. Excellent experience with Sewer Pros.
    View on Google, review by Katya R
  • Leslie MedranoLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    Great company! Fast and reliable service. Helped us figure out an issue and reinspected pipe to make sure there was no underlying damage. Highly recommend!
    View on Google, review by Leslie Medrano
  • lisa schmalz

    Google · a year ago

    Sunday evening I had sewage start backing up in my basement. I contacted The Sewer Pros knowing they could check for a blockage and clear the blockage if one was found. I've learned the hard way previously that not all sewer companies can accommodate both the finding the problem and clearing it. They worked me into their schedule for Monday and were in and out in a timely manner after locating a blockage and clearing it. The price was reasonable, the service was excellent and we are back in action at home, which is all I can hope following a backup!
    View on Google, review by lisa schmalz
  • MollyLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    I worked with this company while trying to buy a house. I have been under contract on 2 houses, and while the first didn’t work out, the guys I worked with from the Sewer pros were professional, prompt, knowledgeable, and efficient both times. Can’t recommend enough!
    View on Google, review by Molly
  • Kayla CurranLocal Guide

    Google · Edited a year ago

    I have used them multiple times to do cabling. Making an appointment is quick. Service is also quick and the customer service is great. Every person who has come out to do the cabling is polite and explains in detail everything they are doing and what they find. Highly recommend using them!
    View on Google, review by Kayla Curran
  • Ines KimLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    As a STL-MO residential realtor for the past 7 years, I first came across Sewer Pros through Evergreen Inspections. I really liked their service and I recommend this company whenever my clients need their services!
    View on Google, review by Ines Kim
  • Michael Vernaci

    Google · a year ago

    The Sewer Pros recently inspected the sewer drains of my latest investment property. The team showed up, professional, thorough, and timely. I highly recommend them.
    View on Google, review by Michael Vernaci
  • Coby Rickey

    Google · a year ago

    Very polite and knowledgeable Inspector. Explained things well and gave recommended corrective actions for noted discrepancies. Pictures and videos of everything was an awesome addition.
    View on Google, review by Coby Rickey
  • Grant ParksLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    Highly recommend! Efficient, professional and flexible. Report was sent right away. No complaints at all!
    View on Google, review by Grant Parks
  • Karin RansdenLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    They did a great job,were very professional, and found the issue quickly.
    View on Google, review by Karin Ransden
  • Ben WolfLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    Professional and knowledgeable, friendly service techs. Would call again for sewer work.
    View on Google, review by Ben Wolf
  • Ian Jackson

    Google · a year ago

    Very friendly, considerate, and informative folks! They do good business, thank you for all the help guys!
    View on Google, review by Ian Jackson
  • Kathleen Schmitz

    Google · a year ago

    Reasonable prices for professional, excellent service. Great and personable service techs!
    View on Google, review by Kathleen Schmitz
  • Kara Hamilton

    Google · a year ago

    The pictures are clear, stated the exact problems and are great service to me!
    View on Google, review by Kara Hamilton
  • Allen DavisLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    Easy to schedule & reasonable prices on the services you need.
    View on Google, review by Allen Davis
  • Kathleen HalbauerLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    Happy with The Sewer Pros. Very prompt and professional.
    View on Google, review by Kathleen Halbauer
  • Cody Nadler

    Google · a year ago

    Very informative and friendly, would recc9mend to everyone 🙏🏽
    View on Google, review by Cody Nadler
  • Ursula Smith

    Google · a year ago

    Friendly, thorough, cleaned up every thing
    View on Google, review by Ursula Smith
  • Jimmy Hennessey

    Google · a year ago

    they did a great job!
    View on Google, review by Jimmy Hennessey
  • Lisa Kuehler

    Google · a year ago

    Highest marks for Sewer Pro's
    View on Google, review by Lisa Kuehler
  • patty verganoLocal Guide

    Google · Edited a year ago

    Fast, knowledgeable and efficient, every time!
    View on Google, review by patty vergano
  • Drew F

    Google · a year ago

    Very informative and helpful info
    View on Google, review by Drew F
  • Robin ColeLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    EEase of scheduling an appointment, on time, professional
    View on Google, review by Robin Cole
  • MelissaLocal Guide

    Google · a year ago

    Friendly, fast, knowledgeable.
    View on Google, review by Melissa
  • Alvia Carroll

    Google · a year ago

    Professional!
    View on Google, review by Alvia Carroll
  • Yolo. G.

    Google · a year ago

    Reasonable price
    View on Google, review by Yolo. G.
  • Venkata Simhadri

    Google · 2 years ago

    Rated 5 out of 5 on Google

    I recently had the pleasure of working with Sewer Pros Company, and I couldn't be happier with their service. From start to finish, their team was professional, efficient, and extremely knowledgeable. Not only did they resolve the problem swiftly, but they also took the time to explain the entire process to me. Their commitment to customer satisfaction was evident throughout. I highly recommend Sewer Pros Company for any sewer-related needs. Thank you for a job well done!"
    View on Google, review by Venkata Simhadri
  • Nick Sontheimer

    Google · 2 years ago

    I've used Sewer Pros twice for inspections. They are very knowledgeable and professional. Steven was exceptionally courteous and helpful with recommendations on repairs. As the cherry on top, their pricing was very competitive.
    View on Google, review by Nick Sontheimer
  • Hulon Mike WillisLocal Guide

    Google · 2 years ago

    An amazing inspetor. He provided great insight and explained it so well that a novice new homeowner could understand. I am appreciative for this inspection as it is going to save me in the long run. Great company and will refer others.
    View on Google, review by Hulon Mike Willis
  • Thomas McGuirk

    Google · 2 years ago

    They were quick, friendly and very efficient. They cleaned up after themselves; it is the little things that make the difference. The price was about what I expected. Since we have a lot of trees in our yard and old pipes we need them once a year to keep the sewer water from backing up into the basement.
    View on Google, review by Thomas McGuirk
  • Cameron GilmoreLocal Guide

    Google · 2 years ago

    I'm really pleased with the service provided. The work was fairly priced. The technician walked me through everything he was going to do. He saved us from having to tear into our walls.
    View on Google, review by Cameron Gilmore
  • Laura BassLocal Guide

    Google · 2 years ago

    I am very happy with the service I received from Sewer Pros. They did my sewer lateral inspection and were thorough, professional and delivered detailed results including a video. I will be calling them again for routine sewer servicing!
    View on Google, review by Laura Bass
  • Champ Bell

    Google · 2 years ago

    Super quick yet thorough job doing our home inspection, gave us advice and next steps on a few things, and most importantly explained everything in a way that helped us understand items that we as new home buyers may not have otherwise understood.
    View on Google, review by Champ Bell
  • Robin MickaelLocal Guide

    Google · 2 years ago

    Had a mild sewer backup into my basement and they got out in 3 days. Guy was super quick and made sure to explain the cause of the issue and our options as far as fixing it.
    View on Google, review by Robin Mickael
  • Mary LuchanLocal Guide

    Google · 2 years ago

    Thank you for the clean bill of health on my sewer inspection. Great job and explained everything very thoroughly. I highly recommend the Sewer Pros!
    View on Google, review by Mary Luchan
  • Jorge Martinez

    Google · 2 years ago

    Very professional service. Always ready to answer any questions. The documents provided from the inspection is very clear and organized. Highly recommend!
    View on Google, review by Jorge Martinez
  • Josue VazquezLocal Guide

    Google · 2 years ago

    Very detailed inspection, and the workers were very professional. Highly recommended to any investors looking for a sewer inspection on any propert/project.
    View on Google, review by Josue Vazquez
  • Alex SeligsohnLocal Guide

    Google · 2 years ago

    Sewer Pros is excellent to work with. They are very reliable and provide quality work. Highly recommended!
    View on Google, review by Alex Seligsohn
  • T Gregory

    Google · 2 years ago

    Timely, truthful, empathetic and very willing to discuss & share inside viewpoints. Critical when one is contemplating buying an older home. … More
    View on Google, review by T Gregory
  • Eric WatersLocal Guide

    Google · 2 years ago

    Very easy to work with. Excellent communication and timely service at a competitive price. … More
    View on Google, review by Eric Waters
  • Jim HennessyLocal Guide

    Google · 2 years ago

    Great experience, professional and experienced, knew what to and explained all work done.
    View on Google, review by Jim Hennessy
  • kenny williamson

    Google · 2 years ago

    Professional, courteous, prompt, knowledgeable, personable, thorough, & affordable. Checked all boxes for me!
    View on Google, review by kenny williamson

Questions

Hydro jetting FAQ

The basics

What is hydro jetting?

Hydro jetting cleans an accessible sewer or drain line with pressurized water sent through a hose and nozzle. It loosens buildup and flushes it out of the line.

How does hydro jetting work?

A pump sends water through a hose to a nozzle. The hose advances through the line, then scours the pipe wall and moves debris along as it is withdrawn.

Can hydro jetting clear roots, grease, and debris?

It can remove buildup that is accessible and cleanable, including grease and loose debris. Roots depend on how they have grown into the line. Cleaning removes what is in the pipe. It does not repair the opening the roots came through.

Does it fix a cracked, offset, or collapsed pipe?

No. Cleaning removes buildup. It does not repair structural defects. If a camera shows one, further evaluation may be appropriate outside our cleaning and diagnostic scope.

Safety and limits

Is hydro jetting safe for old pipes?

It depends on the pipe’s condition and material. That is why a camera look is useful first when included. Visible structural defects call for a closer evaluation before cleaning.

Can hydro jetting cause a backup?

Added water can contribute to a backup if the line cannot carry it away. This is one reason the method and settings are matched to the line.

What can a camera not show?

It sees the interior of the pipe above the waterline. It cannot show wall thickness, structural strength, soil support, exterior condition, or voids. Findings apply only to the surveyed length.

Symptoms

Why are several drains slow at once?

Several slow fixtures can point to a restriction in a shared line rather than in one drain. It does not prove where. See drain cleaning and sewer camera inspection.

Does a smell or gurgling mean the main line is clogged?

It can, but it does not prove it. Gurgling and odors can have other causes. A camera inspection can show what is in the line.

Are flushable wipes safe, and can hot water or additives dissolve grease?

Wipes labeled flushable often do not break down the way toilet paper does, and many utilities ask residents not to flush them. Hot water and soap can move grease along the line, where it may cool and settle again. We make no claim that additives remove buildup.

Planning

What should I ask for and keep?

When a camera is used, you receive the inspection video, and written findings are included. Ask what was removed and what remains. Keep that record.

Do you offer same-day hydro jetting?

Same-day appointments can be arranged when scheduling permits, Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm. Not available on weekends. We do not offer 24/7 or emergency service. Ask about a free estimate before scheduling.

How long does hydro jetting take?

It depends on the entry point, the length and condition of the line, and what is in it. We do not quote a standard time. Ask when you request service.

How much does it cost?

Pricing depends on the scope of work, so we do not publish a standard price. Ask about a free estimate before scheduling.

How often should a line be jetted?

There is no single interval that fits every property. If a line needs repeated cleaning, a camera inspection can help find out why. See recurring sewer backup diagnosis.

Do I need to prepare anything?

Clear access to the cleanout and tell us about recent symptoms. Ask what else applies to your property.

Will I get video or written findings?

When a camera is used, you receive the inspection video. Written findings are included.

Is hydro jetting better than snaking?

They are different tools for different conditions. We do not rank one above the other. See hydro jetting vs. snaking.

Should I get my line cleaned before buying or selling a home?

Cleaning is not an inspection. If you are buying, a pre-purchase sewer inspection shows the condition of the line.

Can the line be located?

Line locating is a separate service, offered when in scope. Locate readings are approximate, not survey-grade. See sewer line locating.

Can I jet my line myself?

We do not recommend a do-it-yourself approach to sewer-line jetting. Pressurized equipment can damage a pipe or add water to a line that cannot carry it. If you are unsure, ask us.
  • Sewer cleaning equipment connected to an open cleanout at a driveway

    Sewer Cleaning

    Remove buildup and obstructions from sewer lines when cleaning is appropriate. A camera inspection can help document line conditions before or after cleaning.

  • Camera monitor showing the inside of a line, beside an open cleanout

    Sewer Camera Inspection

    A camera inspection of the accessible sewer line, documenting what is visible. It can help identify observed conditions and support an informed next-step decision.

  • Drain cleaning machine feeding a cable into a floor drain

    Drain Cleaning

    Address buildup or blockages in drains serving sinks, tubs, and other fixtures. The service focuses on the affected drain and the reported symptoms.

  • Locating transmitter and receiver equipment beside an open access point

    Sewer Line Locating

    Help identify the route of an accessible sewer line and locate a specific area when conditions allow. Useful when planning further evaluation or work.

Request service

Request hydro jetting

Tell us what is happening with your line.

Describe the symptoms, how long they have been going on, and whether you have had the line cleaned before. We will tell you what we can do and what is included. Ask about a free estimate before scheduling. Same-day appointments can be arranged when scheduling permits, Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm. Not available on weekends.

We provide cleaning, camera diagnostics, and line locating only. We do not provide sewer repair, replacement, lining, excavation, or pipe installation.

Contact The Sewer Pros

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