How Much Does Hydro Jetting Cost
- Jayant Upadhyay
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Clogged drains and sewer lines can quickly turn from a minor annoyance into a costly disaster. While traditional snaking methods may temporarily solve the problem, they often don't get to the root of the issue. That's where hydro jetting comes in—a high-pressure, deep-cleaning solution designed to thoroughly clear your pipes. But how much does hydro jetting cost?
In this in-depth blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about hydro jetting prices, including the factors that influence cost, what’s included in the service, how it compares to alternatives, and how to determine if it’s the right solution for your plumbing needs.
What Is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting is a plumbing technique that uses high-pressure water (typically 3,000 to 8,000 PSI) to clean and unclog pipes. A specialized nozzle blasts water through your plumbing system to break up grease, debris, tree roots, and mineral buildup.
Unlike traditional snaking, which merely punches a hole through blockages, hydro jetting cleans the entire diameter of the pipe, restoring full flow and preventing future clogs.
How Much Does Hydro Jetting Cost?
On average, hydro jetting services cost between $300 and $900. However, the final price can vary depending on several factors such as the severity of the clog, pipe accessibility, the length of the plumbing lines, and your geographic location.
🔍 Average Cost Breakdown:
Type of Hydro Jetting | Average Cost |
Light residential job (short line, minor clog) | $300 – $500 |
Medium complexity job (kitchen or bathroom lines) | $500 – $700 |
Sewer line hydro jetting (full cleaning, heavier clog) | $700 – $1,000+ |
Commercial hydro jetting (restaurants, large buildings) | $1,000 – $2,500+ |
Key Factors That Affect Hydro Jetting Cost
1. Severity and Type of Clog
Grease and soap buildup is easier and cheaper to remove.
Tree root intrusion or hardened mineral deposits can significantly increase the complexity and cost.
2. Pipe Length and Accessibility
Longer pipes require more time and water pressure.
Hard-to-access pipes (e.g., underground sewer lines) often need video inspection before jetting, adding to the cost.
3. Inspection Requirements
Most reputable plumbers will perform a camera inspection before hydro jetting, which can add $100–$400 to your bill if not included.
4. Geographic Location
Hydro jetting costs can vary based on local labor rates, demand for plumbing services, and regional plumbing regulations.
Urban areas like Los Angeles or New York may have higher rates.
Smaller towns or rural areas may be more affordable.
5. Emergency or After-Hours Service
Expect to pay up to 50% more for emergency hydro jetting services or night/weekend appointments.
What’s Included in a Hydro Jetting Service?
A typical professional hydro jetting service includes:
Initial diagnostic inspection (sometimes with a camera).
Setup of high-pressure hose and nozzle.
Full line cleaning, from the fixture to the main sewer.
Post-cleaning inspection to ensure the clog is fully cleared.
Optional maintenance tips or suggestions for future prevention.
When Should You Use Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting is ideal for:
Recurring clogs in kitchen or bathroom drains
Sewer line blockages
Slow drains throughout your home
Preventive maintenance for restaurants or commercial kitchens
Severe root intrusion in old plumbing systems
It’s not suitable for very old or fragile pipes, as the high pressure could damage them. In those cases, a plumber may recommend alternative methods.
Hydro Jetting vs Snaking: Which One Should You Choose?
Feature | Hydro Jetting | Snaking |
Cost | $300–$900 | $100–$300 |
Cleaning Effectiveness | Thorough (removes all buildup) | Partial (only breaks through blockage) |
Duration of Effect | Long-term | Short-term |
Suitable For | Grease, sludge, roots | Simple clogs |
Pipe Safety | Risk for old pipes | Generally safe |
Verdict: If you're dealing with recurring or severe clogs, hydro jetting offers a more comprehensive and long-term solution than snaking.
Is Hydro Jetting Worth the Cost?
Yes—hydro jetting offers excellent value for homeowners and businesses looking for a long-term plumbing solution. Here’s why:
Complete cleaning: Removes all buildup inside pipes.
Prevents future issues: Regular jetting can prevent emergency backups.
Environmentally friendly: No harsh chemicals—just water.
Fast and efficient: Often completed in under 2 hours.
For commercial kitchens or older homes with clay or cast iron pipes, it can actually save money over time by avoiding costly repairs from burst pipes or major blockages.
How Often Should You Schedule Hydro Jetting?
Homes: Every 1 to 2 years, especially if you have large trees near your sewer line.
Restaurants/Commercial: Every 3 to 6 months due to frequent grease and food waste buildup.
DIY Hydro Jetting – Is It Possible?
While you can rent a hydro jetting machine from some hardware stores (costing $100–$300/day), DIY hydro jetting is not recommended due to:
Risk of injury from high-pressure water
Potential damage to pipes
Lack of camera inspection and expert knowledge
Hiring a licensed plumber ensures safety and proper diagnosis of your plumbing issues.
How to Save Money on Hydro Jetting
Here are some tips to reduce the cost of hydro jetting:
1. Get Multiple Quotes
Always compare prices from 2–3 licensed plumbers in your area.
2. Ask About Package Deals
Some companies offer hydro jetting as part of a preventive maintenance package that includes camera inspections and snaking.
3. Schedule During Regular Hours
Avoid emergency callouts by addressing minor clogs early.
4. Combine Services
If you need other plumbing work done, bundle it with hydro jetting to save on service charges.
5. Check for Local Promotions
Seasonal deals or coupons on plumbing company websites can help lower costs.
Real-Life Hydro Jetting Cost Examples
Kitchen Drain Clog in Los Angeles
Camera inspection: $150
Hydro jetting: $400
Total: $550
Sewer Line in Dallas
Video inspection included
Jetting 60 ft of line with root intrusion
Total: $750
Commercial Restaurant in Chicago
Quarterly hydro jetting contract
$1,800/year or $450 per visit
Common FAQs About Hydro Jetting
Q1: Can hydro jetting damage my pipes?
Answer: If your pipes are old or fragile (especially clay or corroded cast iron), hydro jetting could cause damage. Plumbers usually conduct a camera inspection to assess pipe condition beforehand.
Q2: How long does hydro jetting take?
Answer: Most residential jobs take 1–2 hours depending on clog severity and pipe length.
Q3: Does hydro jetting remove tree roots?
Answer: Yes, hydro jetting is very effective at cutting through small to medium-sized tree roots. For large roots, it may need to be combined with other tools like
root saws.
Q4: Is hydro jetting safe for septic systems?
Answer: Yes, but it must be done carefully to avoid disturbing the septic tank or leach field. Always consult a plumber with septic experience.
Q5: Will hydro jetting stop clogs from coming back?
Answer: Hydro jetting offers long-lasting results, but buildup can return over time. Regular maintenance can keep pipes clear year-round.
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