Your septic system is responsible for processing all the wastewater from the home, helping to remove all the toxins so that the water that returns to the environment has been fully filtered and is safe. Normally, your septic system operates without you needing to think much about it, but that does not mean it does not require maintenance or need occasional repairs.
If your septic system is experiencing problems, one of the septic services that may need to be recommended is called hydro jetting.
What Is Hydro jetting?
Hydro jetting is a technique that uses high-pressure water jets to clean and unclog pipes and sewer lines. This method can be used to clear out stubborn buildups of debris, grease, or sludge in your septic system. It is an effective way to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently, and it can also extend the life of your septic tank and the rest of the septic system.
If you are experiencing any issues with your septic system, such as slow drainage or backups, it is important to seek professional help right away. A qualified septic contractor will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action for cleaning and maintaining your system.
Signs You Need Hydro Jetting
There are several signs that you may need hydro jetting services for your septic system. These signs include slow drainage, backups or gurgling noises in your pipes, foul odors coming from drains or toilets, and wet spots in the yard near your drain field. If you notice any of these issues, it is important to contact a professional right away for an assessment and to determine if hydro jetting is the best solution for your situation.
How Does Hydro Jetting Work?
Hydro jetting is much more complex than just sticking a hose down the drain and blasting the water. Here are the steps that are typically involved:
- The septic professional will do a video inspection to identify areas where there are blockages or excessive buildup. They will also assess whether the pipes are strong enough to withstand the high water pressure from hydro jetting.
- The technician will put the hydro jetting hoses into your pipes and begin the cleaning process. They will typically adjust the pressure as they go to find the right level that removes debris without risking damage.
- The dislodged debris gets flushed through the system along with the water, and your septic system should be operating properly once again.
Benefits of Hydro Jetting
There are many benefits to hydro jetting your septic system, including:
- Improved drainage and flow so that your septic system is operating at peak efficiency.
- Reduced buildup of sludge, grease, and debris that can form in drain pipes over time.
- Extended life of the septic tank and piping by minimizing the physical stresses and need for more intensive repairs.
- Reduced risk of backups and flooding by keeping the. pathways for the wastewater open.
- Improved overall efficiency of the entire septic system.
- Does not use harsh chemicals, so there is no impact on the vital bacteria in the septic tank or to the environment.
- Can sometimes even be used to blast away tree roots that are a common cause of clogs.
Another procedure that is sometimes used for clearing clogs out of septic pipes is often referred to as “snaking.” This involves a drain auger, which is a tool similar to the smaller version used to clear blockages inside the home. The snake is inserted into the pipe and cranked through in an effort to break through any blockages.
While both snaking and hydro jetting can break up basic clogs, hydro jetting can completely remove the buildup rather than just break through it. Hydro jetting also has the added benefit of reducing the normal build-up of materials that attach themselves to the interior of the pipes over time, in effect “scrubbing” them clean.
Can Hydro Jetting Damage Old Pipes?
Homeowners may have some concern that hydro jetting could damage old or fragile pipes, but this depends on a number of factors. In general, modern pipes can withstand high-pressure water jets without issue, but older or more fragile piping may require a gentler approach.
If you have concerns about whether hydro jetting may damage your system, it is best to consult with a professional for advice.
It is important to note that hydro jet drain cleaning is not a DIY project. It should always be done by a licensed septic company who knows how to remove clogs without causing damage.
Minimize the Need for Hydro jetting Through Proper Septic System Care
For most residential septic systems, hydro jetting will not be a necessary part of ongoing maintenance, but rather a solution to a problem that has arisen. Typically, that problem is so form of clog or blockage that other remedies have not been able to resolve.
The best way to avoid needing hydrojet plumbing services is to simply follow standard guidelines for preventing clogs:
- Do not flush anything other than water and human waste. This includes even items like so-called “flushable” wipes as well as hygiene products, cigarette butts, condoms, and cat litter.
- Do not use or at least minimize the use of a garbage disposal, since too many food items in the pipes can cause clogs, even if they are ground up.
- Try to avoid flushing fats, oils, and grease. Because they are lighter than water, these items can float to the surface and form blockages.
Of course, even the most diligent homeowner may at some time have the unpleasant experience of a clogged septic system. The key in all cases is to get the problems assessed and resolved quickly, before they become bigger issues.
Septic and Drainfield Services in Lakeland
Septic and Drainfield Depot offers residential and commercial septic services throughout Central Florida. From septic inspections and pumping to installations, drainfields, and lift stations, our experienced professionals are committed to providing fast, reliable, and affordable service to all our customers.
If you need help with your septic system, contact us today.
