Did you know that over 40% of homes in the U.S. were built before 1970? That means millions of homeowners are relying on plumbing systems that are more than 50 years old—and likely overdue for attention. When drains slow down or back up, many wonder: Is modern hydro jetting service safe for aging plumbing? Or could it make things worse?
If you’ve got old pipes and clogs, this blog will answer what you’re really asking: “Will hydro jetting clear the problem—or create a bigger one?” Let’s break it down and explain when this method is safe and when it’s not.
What Is Hydro Jetting?
Hydro jetting service is a method of clearing clogged pipes using highly pressurized water, sometimes up to 4,000 PSI. Unlike snaking, which only punches through part of a blockage, hydro jetting scours the full pipe interior, blasting away:
- Grease and food sludge
- Soap scum and mineral scale
- Tree roots
- Sediment and debris
It’s fast, thorough, and doesn’t use harsh chemicals, which makes it a go-to eco-friendly plumbing solution.
The Problem With Older Pipes
Here’s the catch: not all pipes can take that kind of pressure, especially those that are decades old. Common materials in older homes include:
- Galvanized steel– rusts and corrodes over time
- Cast iron– prone to scale buildup and cracking
- Clay– brittle and vulnerable to root intrusion
If your pipes fall into these categories, they may already be weakened. Applying high-pressure water could cause fractures, collapse, or full-on failure.
When Is Hydro Jetting Service Safe for Aging Plumbing?
Hydro jetting can be safe for old pipes—if done properly. A responsible plumbing contractor won’t jump in without first inspecting the line. Here’s how it’s handled correctly:
- Camera inspection: Before anything is cleaned, the plumber sends a camera through the line to check for cracks, corrosion, or collapse.
- Pressure adjustments: For older systems, the plumber uses a lower PSI setting to protect the pipe walls.
- Material check: Certain pipe types (like ABS or PVC) hold up better than others.
If the camera shows your pipes are stable, just clogged—hydro jetting may actually extend their lifespan by removing destructive buildup.
When Hydro Jetting Isn’t Recommended
If your pipe is heavily corroded or already compromised, hydro jetting may cause more harm than good. In that case, your plumbing contractor might suggest:
- Snaking– for soft blockages and smaller clogs
- Pipe relining– repairing from the inside without digging
- Pipe replacement– the safest route if the system is in bad shape
Yes, pipe replacement costs more upfront, but it can prevent water damage that could cost thousands later.
The Upside of Hydro Jetting (When Conditions Are Right)
If your aging plumbing passes inspection, hydro jetting service is often the best cleaning method available. It:
- Clears blockages completely
- Prevents recurring clogs
- Avoids chemical drain cleaners
- Works fast and supports better flow
- It is a great option for affordable plumbing repairs
Moreover, since it only uses water, it’s ideal for households that care about eco-friendly plumbing solutions.
Expert Plumbing Services For Aging Plumbing By J&B Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Service
At J&B Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Service, we treat aging plumbing systems with care and precision. Every hydro jetting service starts with a professional inspection, and we adjust pressure to match your pipe’s condition.
- Fully licensed and insured
- Fast, on-time service
- Clear pricing and no upsells
- Eco-friendly plumbing solutionsare available
Whether you need hydro jetting service, pipe replacement, or other affordable plumbing repairs, our team of skilled plumbing contractors is ready to help.
Contact us now to schedule your inspection and keep your plumbing working like it should, without risking damage.