Drain Jetting: What Is It and When Do You Need It? - FS Drainage

January 13, 2024

When you’re already busy with work and family commitments, the last thing you want is a blocked drain. And it's not just about the inconvenience; blocked drains can lead to a range of issues, including foul odours, expensive maintenance bills, and damage to your home.

This is where drain jetting comes into play: a powerful solution for maintaining clean and functional drainage systems. But what is drain jetting, and how does it work? Let’s take a look.

How Does Drain Jetting Work?

Drain jetting is a sophisticated method used to clean and unblock drains, and involves the use of a high-pressure water stream that’s used to clear out debris, grease, and other obstructions within the drainage system. Drain jetting is highly effective, efficient, and eco-friendly, as it doesn’t not rely on harsh chemicals, only water.

The Process of Drain Jetting

Drain jetting, while seemingly straightforward, is a nuanced process that requires professional expertise. The initial assessment of the drainage system typically involves using CCTV cameras to inspect the drain's interior; this step helps in pinpointing the exact location and nature of the blockage.

Once the assessment is complete, the jetting process begins: the water jet is carefully manoeuvred to ensure it reaches all areas of the drain, providing a thorough clean that not only clears blockages but also prevents future buildup.

Signs Your Drains Might Need Jetting

So, when is drain jetting best used? Here are just a few common problems that water jetting can fix:

Slow Draining Water

One of the first signs that you might need drain jetting is water draining slowly from your sinks, bathtubs, or showers; this usually indicates a buildup within your pipes that is restricting water flow.

Foul Odours

Unpleasant smells emanating from your drains are a clear sign of blockages: this occurs when waste accumulates and starts to decompose, leading to foul odours. Drain jetting can effectively remove these blockages and eliminate odours from your bathroom and your home.

Frequent Clogs

If you find yourself frequently unclogging your drains, it’s usually a sign that there’s a deeper issue within your drainage system. While bringing out the plunger or pouring chemical cleaners down your drains might offer a temporary solution, drain jetting provides a more comprehensive clean, and is also more eco friendly than traditional drain cleaners.

Gurgling Sounds

Another sign that you might need water jetting is strange, gurgling sounds coming from your drains. This noise is often caused by trapped air escaping as water struggles to flow past a blockage, and if you hear these sounds, it’s time to consider professional drain jetting.

Benefits of Drain Jetting

a plumber preparing to do drain jetting

Drain jetting offers numerous benefits over traditional methods of drain cleaning, including:

Efficiency and Effectiveness

The high-pressure water jets can reach deep into the drainage system, effectively clearing out all types of blockages and buildups. This method is far more efficient than manual rodding or chemical treatments, and can even work on stubborn tree roots.

Long-Lasting Results

Unlike other methods that offer temporary fixes, drain jetting thoroughly cleans the pipes, reducing the likelihood of future blockages and ensuring a longer-lasting solution.

Environmental Safety

Since it uses only water, drain jetting in London is the most environmentally friendly option when it comes to getting rid of clogs, so you don’t need to worry about filling your pipes with harmful chemicals that can damage both your pipes as well as the environment.

Preventive Maintenance

Finally, regular drain jetting can serve as one of the most effective methods of preventive maintenance, which will not only help avoid severe blockages but also help you avoid the associated costly repairs. Cha-ching!

When To Call a Drain Jetting Professional

If you think you’re dealing with some deeper problems within your water system, here’s when to call a professional drain jetting expert:

  • Recurring Blockages: If you’re dealing with persistent blockages despite repeated attempts to clear them, it’s usually a sign to call in the professionals.
  • After a Flood or Heavy Rainfall: Excessive water flow can cause sediment and debris to accumulate in your drains: professional jetting can ensure your drainage system is free from blockages after extreme weather.
  • Before and After Major Plumbing Work: If you’re planning significant plumbing renovations, drain jetting can prepare your pipes for the work. Similarly, after any major plumbing work, it’s wise to clear out any debris that may have accumulated. Do make sure that the experts evaluate your pipes beforehand, as drain jets can be too strong for older or frailer pipes.
  • Routine Maintenance: Even if you aren’t experiencing any obvious issues, scheduling routine drain jetting can prevent future problems and maintain the health of your drainage system.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, drain jetting is an efficient, effective, and eco-friendly way to maintain your drains and keep your plumbing running smoothly. Whether you're facing persistent blockages or just looking for a planet-friendly way to maintain your plumbing, professional drain jetting can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle.

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