What is a water jetter?

A water jetter or hydro jetter is a machine that produces water under pressure, allowing it to be used to effectively clean and clear inside pipework such as drain and sewer lines.

A water jetter should not be confused with a water blaster or pressure washer. While water blasters or pressure washers are designed to apply high pressure water to clean a variety of surfaces, water jetters are specifically designed to clear pipework. Their design includes nozzles that simultaneously push water forwards and backwards, and long, flexible hoses to reach into the pipes they are clearing.

Master Water Jetter being used to clear a pipe that’s clogged up with silt and sediment.

How does a water jetter work?

A water jetter works by combining the power of a pump with a flexible hose system that makes it possible to direct pressurised water exactly where you need it. The hose system is fitted with a special nozzle that directs water both forwards and backwards making it an effective tool to clean inside pipes and confined spaces.

Silt and sediment being cleared out of a drain by a water jetter.

What are the main types of tasks for a water jetter?

The main tasks that a water jetter is used for are pipe and drain clearing tasks. Usually the need for a water jetter is identified because pipes start running slowly or drains are blocking frequently. Closer inspection may identify a partial blockage of the pipework that needs to be blasted clear with high pressure water. Water jetters are particularly effective at clearing partially blocked pipes where build up of fat or sediment has reduced the flow capacity.

Pipe that’s clogged up with silt and sediment.

Does water jetting damage drainage pipes?

Water jetting is only suitable for pipes that are strong enough to withstand the water pressure. Inserting a drainage camera into your pipes first could help you to check there is no existing weakness or damage. Water jetting is strong enough to remove small roots and build ups of fat and debris.

Water jetter hose is inserted into a pipe to remove the silt and sediment.

How much PSI is needed to jet a drain?

The recommended PSI for a water jetter varies depending on the size of the pipe you’re clearing. The wider the pipe, the higher the PSI and water flow rate you will need from your water jetter. Because a water jetter operates at a high water pressure, it’s important to be confident that your pipes can withstand the pressure before beginning work. Caution should be exercised with old pipework or pipework where there may be extensive damage that’s weakened the structure of the pipe.

Are there any special safety instructions for operating a Water Jetter?

The way that a water jetter directs water at high pressure means it can be a very dangerous tool if safety instructions are not properly followed. Special care should be taken when placing the water jetter into the pipe and removing it – especially to ensure that there is protection between you and the nozzle when the jetter is engaged and while the hose is in the drain/pipe.

If you’re hiring a water jetter from Allways Hire, our team can talk you through the safety requirements. We’ve also got information on our website that can help you to stay safe when you’re hiring this equipment.

Where can I hire a Water Jetter in Hawke’s Bay?

You can hire the Master Water Jetter from Allways Hire in Hastings. The Master Water Jetter is ideal for cleaning drains or clearing culverts. It has 3500 psi and a flow rate of up to 30 litres per minute.

The Water Jetter’s tank comes on a skid frame so it’s easy to transport on a trailer or the back of your truck. The Water Jetter’s hose can be fitted with either a water blaster wand or drain cleaning nozzles and is 15m long, giving you plenty of length to work down and clear your drainage pipes.

Hire a Water Jetter from Allways Hire today.