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Glossary

Sewer Jetting

What is Sewer Jetting?

Sewer jetting is using high-pressure water through a hose and nozzle to blast away grease, roots, and debris inside sewer and storm lines; combination trucks jet the line and vacuum the loosened material back out.

Sewer jetting (hydro jetting) sends a high-pressure water stream down a pipe through a nozzle whose rear jets propel the hose forward and scour the pipe walls clean. It clears blockages, grease, sediment, and roots to restore full flow in sanitary and storm sewers.

On a combination (combo) truck, jetting is paired with vacuum recovery so the dislodged sludge is suctioned into the debris body, often with a water recycling system reusing recovered water. Rent combo trucks and jetting equipment through a free Vac4Rent request; rental companies reply directly.

Renting equipment for this job? Combination Trucks for Sewer & Storm Drain Cleaning

Guides that cover Sewer Jetting

Related terms

Combination (Combo) TruckWater Recycling SystemCatch BasinWet Well

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Sewer Jetting: common questions

What is Sewer Jetting?+

Sewer jetting is using high-pressure water through a hose and nozzle to blast away grease, roots, and debris inside sewer and storm lines; combination trucks jet the line and vacuum the loosened material back out.

What is the difference between sewer jetting and sewer rodding?+

Sewer rodding, also called snaking or cabling, pushes a rotating mechanical cable or cutter through a line to break up a blockage. Sewer jetting uses high-pressure water to scour the inside of the pipe and flush debris toward a manhole where it can be vacuumed out. Rodding can punch through a clog but often leaves grease and sediment on the pipe walls, while jetting generally cleans more thoroughly. Many crews use both, depending on pipe condition, roots, and access.

What nozzle types are used for sewer jetting?+

Jetting nozzles vary by job. Penetrating nozzles aim more water forward to open blockages. Flushing or cleaning nozzles direct most of the water backward to scour pipe walls and pull debris toward the vacuum point. Rotating nozzles help remove grease, and root cutters or chain nozzles deal with root intrusion and hardened buildup. When renting a combo truck, ask which nozzles come with the unit and whether they suit the pipe sizes and materials on your job.

Is sewer jetting safe for older pipes?+

Jetting is widely used on older sewers, but cracked, offset, or deteriorated pipe, including some clay and Orangeburg pipe, can be damaged by too much pressure or the wrong nozzle. Many contractors run a camera inspection first to check condition, then adjust pressure and nozzle choice. Work in municipal systems may also need permits or owner approval, and OSHA confined space rules apply if anyone enters a manhole. Check local and state requirements before starting.