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(Update 2025): When homeowners need a solution for significant clogs, including whole-house clogs, the best bet is often to hire a hydro jetting service. The cost for hydro jetting varies depending on the scope and severity of the clog, with the typical price usually running somewhere between $850 and $1,300. For commercial hydro jetting needs, the cost can be anywhere from $850 to $2,500, again depending on scope and severity. A local plumber can provide a more specific quote. *Prices vary based on the complexity of the circumstances.
Sometimes, you have clogs or plumbing backups so significant that plungers and even drain snakes prove ineffective. One of the most powerful and effective ways to clean out your pipes and prevent future buildups is with the use of pressurized water. This process is known as hydro jetting.
Before hiring a hydro jetting service, however, you may have some practical questions and concerns. For instance, homeowners will naturally want to know more about the typical cost of hydro jetting.
The short answer: It depends on a range of factors, including the severity of the clog, the specific hydro jetting service you hire, and more. In this article, we’ll provide some general guidelines from Lisa Carter, who heads Carter’s My Plumber in Indianapolis, IN. Carter’s My Plumber is one of the top choices for hydro jetting in the Indianapolis area.
Choosing the Right Drain Cleaning Services
First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge that not every professional plumber will be able to supply you with a hydro jetting process. As such, it’s important to confirm that the plumber in question has access to high-pressure water jets, even before you get into issues of price.
“The main thing is having the proper equipment,” says Carter, noting that this isn’t something homeowners can take for granted. “Not every plumbing company is going to have hydro jetting equipment. In fact, only a select few will have it. This equipment is expensive and it is important to have the right skill and knowledge to operate the equipment.” For Indianapolis residents, Carter notes that her company has its own “jetter” truck, along with a high level of skill and experience implementing it to address stubborn clogs.
Indeed, finding the right company to clean drain pipes means ensuring the right gear, but also a high level of training. Carter explains how the process works: “Hydro jetting utilizes high water pressure to dislodge and push articles that are clogging pipes on down the line, or causes them to dissipate by breaking them apart. The water pressure can reach up to 4000 PSI, which is very forceful. Normal water pressure in a home is between 40 and 60 PSI.”
All of that’s just to say that there are potential risks involved with hydro jetting, especially when done by an inexperienced plumber. In considering cost, homeowners should keep in mind that equipment and expertise are both incredibly valuable.
What’s the Average Cost for Hydro Jetting?
As for a specific price point, Carter offers some basic guidelines.
“Cost for hydro jetting can vary between $850 to $1,300 for a residential application, and $500 to $2500 for commercial,” she notes. “Obviously it depends on the severity of the clog to determine pricing. We do offer free estimates for difficult clogs, including whole house clogs.”
Carter goes on to say that, when dealing with a clogged drain or clogged sewer lines, hydro jetting is ultimately the most effective and lasting solution. “It is fascinating technology and it will get the job done to make sure the clog is relieved and removed. If a customer wants to ensure their problem is removed, jetting is the way to go.”
Homeowners should note that hydro jetting is in a different category from basic drain cleaning, e.g. with a plumbing snake. “There is a huge difference between drain cleaning and jetting,” Carter confirms. “Jetting is based on water pressure whereas a drain cleaning is a line being inserted into a pipe to chop up the clog.”
Ultimately, the best way for homeowners to assess the cost of hydro jetting for their home is to call a local plumbing company to request more information, and to see if free estimates are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hydro jetting worth it?
Because it can address significant clogs, including issues with tree roots, and because it can help prevent future build-ups, hydro jetting can absolutely be worth it.
How much should hydro jetting cost?
For residential hydro jetting, the cost may be anywhere from $600 to $1,300, just depending on the type and severity of the clog.
Is hydro jetting better than snaking?
Hydro jetting is much more thorough and effective than snaking, though using a drain snake may be perfectly fine for more modest clogs.
Why is hydro jetting so expensive?
Hydro jetting is usually pricier than other options, including snaking and chemical drain cleaners. This is because there is expensive technology, plus a very advanced level of skill required. Additionally, it offers a more thorough and long-lasting result, and can help unclog drains and sewer pipes that other methods cannot address.
Can hydro jetting damage old pipes?
A reputable plumber will always begin with a video inspection, assessing your pipes and letting you know if there are any serious risks or dangers. In some cases, your plumber may recommend a method other than hydro jetting, just to ensure the integrity of your pipes and sewer lines.
Can I hydro jet myself?
DIY hydro jetting is hard to do, both because the equipment is hard to come by and because it requires a lot of training, skill, and experience. It’s best to leave it to experienced plumbers, who can help you address issues with clogs and tree roots without damaging your plumbing lines.
