If you're in the plumbing or drain cleaning business, owning a sewer jetting machine isn’t just about clearing the occasional tough clog—it’s about versatility. These machines are some of the most valuable tools you can have on your truck or trailer. From basic residential jobs to heavy-duty commercial cleanouts, jetting machines are built to handle a wide range of tasks.
Let’s break down the top uses for a hydro jetter and why more professionals are making it a core part of their toolkit.
- Clearing Grease and Sludge Buildup
One of the most common (and profitable) uses for a jetter is clearing out grease-laden kitchen lines. Over time, grease hardens and sticks to the inside of pipes—especially in commercial kitchens. A high-pressure jetter blasts it all out, restoring full flow and preventing future backups.
✅ Pro tip: Use a rotating nozzle for maximum cleaning coverage inside grease lines.
- Root Removal from Sewer Lines
Tree roots are notorious for invading older sewer lines through tiny cracks or joints. Jetters equipped with a root-cutting nozzle can cut apart roots and flush them downstream—often without digging or line replacement.
Note: Jetting is ideal as a follow-up after mechanical rodding to flush out loose root debris.
- Flushing Out Sand, Silt, and Debris
In storm drains, catch basins, and larger diameter pipes, sediment and construction debris can reduce flow or cause blockages. Sewer jetters are perfect for flushing these materials, especially when paired with high-flow, large-diameter hoses.
- Preventative Maintenance Programs
More and more businesses and property managers are hiring plumbers to jet lines on a schedule, even when there’s no backup. Why? Preventative jetting reduces the risk of costly emergency calls and extends the life of the plumbing system.
Offering maintenance contracts is a great way to create recurring revenue with your jetter.
- Cleaning Lateral Lines
Jetters are commonly used to clean residential lateral lines running from the house to the main sewer. They're more effective than snakes for removing buildup, and they do a better job of cleaning the pipe walls.
- Municipal and Commercial Sewer Maintenance
Cities, utility companies, and commercial facilities often rely on high-powered trailer jetters to maintain long runs of main lines, parking lot drains, and industrial sewer infrastructure.
With the right pressure and flow, a jetting machine can handle lines from 4" to 24" or more.
- Pre- and Post-Inspection Cleaning
Before sending a sewer camera into a line—or after lining or repairs—jetting ensures the pipe is clear of debris for accurate diagnostics or to protect new infrastructure.
The Bottom Line
A sewer jetting machine is more than just a clog-buster. It’s a revenue-generating, multi-purpose powerhouse that helps plumbers and contractors handle a wide range of jobs quickly, cleanly, and professionally.
Ready to Add or Upgrade Your Jetting Equipment?
We can help you choose the right jetting machine for the kind of work you do—residential, commercial, or municipal.
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