How much does it cost to jet a sewer line?

Author: Forrest Stehr IV  |  Last update: Monday, June 9, 2025

The average cost of hydro jetting a main sewer line in 2022 is $700-1,100 (Forbes).

Is sewer jetting worth it?

Regular sewer jetting can eliminate clogs before they become full on blockages. We also recommend that you jet the sewers when you move into a new home, as you never know what condition the sewer line was left in by the previous owner.

Is water jetting expensive?

You'll pay around $475 on average for hydro jetting costs, but it can cost as little as $100 or as much as $2,000.

How much does it cost to have a sewer line jetted?

Average cost of hydro jetting

“In California, expect to pay a flat rate of $500 to hydro jet a kitchen or bathroom sink, or $1,000 for a sewer or toilet,” says Rave.

Can sewer jetting damage pipes?

Remember, hydro jetting can damage pipes, but only if they're already weakened or damaged. A professional plumber will be able to identify any potential risks before the procedure.

How Much Does Sewer Line Maintenance and Repair Cost?

What are the dangers of hydro jetting?

Common hazards and risks include the water jet piercing the skin, being hit by flying debris and exposure to noise. Other hazards associated with high pressure water jetting include working in confined spaces, fall hazards, respiratory and eye hazards, electric shock and potential exposure to hazardous chemicals.

How much does Roto Rooter charge for hydro jetting?

A sewer camera inspection costs $125 to $500 if you hire a local plumber or $295 to $350 from Roto-Rooter. Cleaning a main sewer line costs $150 to $500 for snaking or $250 to $800 for hydro jetting, depending on the individual plumber's rates.

Why does hydro jetting cost so much?

That's because hydro jetting a commercial property requires the use of more sophisticated equipment. Hydro jetting services also require a camera inspection prior to the service to examine what condition the pipes are in. Sewer camera services can cost $300-400, but in certain situations, the service may be provided.

How much does it cost to clean out a main sewer line?

Clearing a clogged sewer line costs $250 to $800, depending on where the clog is located, what causes it, and the necessary cleaning. A clogged sewer line is typically an indication of a much larger problem. The main sewer line is much larger and can typically handle more volume than the average drain in your home.

Is hydro jetting better than snaking?

Typically, professional plumbers will start with a snake, since most clogs are relatively minor. But hydro jetting may be the best option for clogs in multiple drains or severe clogs that continue to recur.

How much does water jets cost?

Pricing for small waterjet cutting systems can start around $60k and complete custom systems can reach into the millions. It all depends on your application. You should also factor delivery and disposal costs into your cost for abrasive.

How often should you hydro jet your sewer line?

How Often Do You Need To Use Hydrojetting For Your Pipes? Whether your drainage system gets clogged easily or not, hydrojetting is recommended every 18 to 22 months to prevent clogs.

Why is sewer pipe so expensive?

Wondering why is sewer line replacement so expensive? It boils down to skilled labor costs, quality materials, extensive excavation, and stringent regulations.

What is the difference between hydro jetting and Roto Rooter?

While rooters scrape the sides of a pipe, the hydro jetter will blast off all debris in the pipe and wash it out. In addition to being 30-50% more efficient, the hydro nozzles spraying pressurized water can be as aggressive or gentle as they need to be – which makes a huge difference in the quality of the work.

How often should you flush your sewer line?

Expert Recommendations for Sewer Line Cleaning

We recommend homeowners schedule sewer line cleaning every 18 to 24 months to prevent buildup and clogs. Regular cleanings help avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your plumbing system.

Can I jet my own drains?

It is not recommended that you attempt to hydro jet your own drain. Hydro jetting is a powerful procedure that can be dangerous if it is not done correctly. If you are not trained in how to use a hydro jetter, you could damage your pipes or injure yourself.

How much does it cost to unblock a sewage drain?

The cost of rodding a drain typically ranges from £80 to £150. This price includes the service of using specialised rods to manually break up and remove the blockage. The final cost may vary based on factors such as the severity of the blockage, the length of the drain, and the accessibility of the problem area.

How long does it take to jet a drain?

How Long Does Hydro Jetting Take? The average time to perform hydro jetting is about 60 minutes. If you have a lot of cleaning, you can expect about 90 minutes.

How much does it cost to Hydrojet a sewer line?

How much does it cost to Hydrojet old pipes? On average, hydro jetting old pipes can cost between $350 and $600, though in more severe cases it could be up to $1,000 or higher. The same pricing goes for descaling sewer pipe cost.

Can hydro jetting damage pipes?

Given the amount of force used, hydro jetting can damage frail, aging pipes. Older sewer pipes that are more susceptible to cracks and breaks shouldn't be treated using hydro jetting. In scenarios when pipe age is a concern, traditional cleaning methods should be utilized instead.

How much pressure do you need for a sewer jetter?

Experience has shown that a 3,500 to 4,000 psi jetter with 6 or more gpm and the right nozzle or tool will cut out root masses, chop up hard grease, and carve out hard settled dirt. We've shipped dozens of jetters that do 9 gpm/4,000 psi for cutting out this kind of crud from 3- to 8-inch drains and sewers.

Is Roto-Rooter cheaper than a plumber?

Unlike many plumbing services, Roto-Rooter charges a flat rate instead of by the hour. This could make Roto-Rooter a more affordable plumbing solution in many cases, as you won't get stuck with a higher bill if the job takes longer to complete.

Will a sewer jetter cut roots?

Will a Sewer Jetter Cut Roots? Hydro jetting a sewer line involves using highly pressurized water to break apart and cut the tree roots so they can then be flushed out of the pipes. Many hydro jets have around 4,000 per square inch (psi). Hydro jets are recommended for severe sewer line tree root blockage.

How to unclog main sewer line?

Your step-by-step guide: How to clear a main sewer line clog
  1. Step 1: Loosen the cap on the drain pipe. ...
  2. Step 2: Open the cap and let the buildup drain out. ...
  3. Step 3: Feed the auger cable into the drain pipe. ...
  4. Step 4: Run the auger until the clog is clear—and beyond. ...
  5. Step 5: Hose down the pipe and auger cable.

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