Clogged drains are a hassle, but the thought of damaging your old pipes while fixing them might seem even worse. So, can hydro jetting damage old pipes?
Hydro jetting is the preferred method for clearing blocked drains because it effectively removes clogs without damaging old pipes. By using high-pressure water, it can clear out debris, grease and even tree roots without harming the integrity of your plumbing. However, it still depends on the overall condition of your pipe. Old, corroded and brittle pipes may be more susceptible to getting damaged by high pressure hydro jetting.
Want to know more about how hydro jetting works and why it’s a safe choice? Let’s dive in.
Can Hydro Jetting Damage Old Pipes? A Short Answer
Hydro jetting is the preferred method for clearing blocked drains because it effectively removes clogs without damaging old pipes. However, pipes that have deteriorated over time or are made from less durable materials might not withstand the high-pressure water. This can lead to cracks, leaks or even bursts. That’s why it’s important to assess the condition of your pipes before hydro jetting and adjust the pressure levels accordingly. With proper care, hydro jetting can remain a safe and effective solution without causing further plumbing issues.
Experience Sydney’s Premier Hydro Jetting Service
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When Should You Be Cautious with Hydro Jetting Old Pipes?
Hydro jetting is an effective and safe method for clearing blocked drains, even in most older plumbing systems. However, if your pipes have significantly deteriorated or are made from weaker materials, it’s important to assess their condition first.
In some cases, these pipes may not handle the high-pressure water as well. Adjusting the pressure and evaluating your plumbing beforehand ensures that hydro jetting can still be a reliable and safe solution. Here are signs hydro jetting might cause damage to your old pipe:
Pre-existing Damage
Old pipes often suffer from corrosion, cracks or previous repairs, which may not withstand the intense pressure of hydro jetting. The forceful water can worsen existing weaknesses, leading to leaks or complete pipe failure.
Severe Blockages
Dense or solid blockages, like tree roots or hardened scale, can cause the water pressure to build up in one section. This increases stress on the pipe. This pressure can be particularly damaging to old or brittle pipes, risking rupture.
Incorrect Pressure Settings
Using hydro jetting equipment with improperly calibrated pressure settings can lead to pipe damage. Older pipes generally require lower pressure to prevent stress on the material. Therefore, it is best to let professionals handle the hydro jetting.
Brittle Materials
Certain materials age and lose their structural integrity. Hydro jetting can be too harsh for such materials. This can lead to cracks or breaks during the cleaning process.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Pipes that have not been regularly maintained may have weakened over time due to accumulated wear and tear. Hydro jetting these pipes might introduce too much stress, causing them to fail.
Different Pipe Types and Their Reaction to Hydro Jetting
Understanding how different materials react to hydro jetting is crucial for preventing damage and ensuring the longevity of your plumbing system.
Copper
Smelly Drains Plumbers emphasize the benefits of copper pipes due to their durability and resistance to microbial growth. They also advise that hydro jetting is safe for well-maintained copper plumbing, provided the pipes are not compromised by corrosion or thinning, which could result in leaks or bursts under high pressure
Cast Iron
Cast iron pipes are common in older homes. They are naturally durable but prone to corrosion and rust. When using hydro jetting, it’s important to adjust the water pressure, as high pressure can worsen weak joints and corroded areas.
PVC
PVC pipes are lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties, and can handle moderate levels of pressure. However, their flexibility means they are more prone to deformation under the intense force of hydro jetting if not carefully monitored. Adjusting the water pressure to suit the condition and age of PVC Sewer pipes is essential to prevent damage.
ABS
ABS pipes share many characteristics with PVC but are generally more rigid, making them slightly more robust under pressure. Despite this, they are still prone to cracking if hydro jetting is not performed correctly. Ensuring that the water pressure is properly adjusted and that the pipes are inspected for any pre-existing issues is crucial for a safe cleaning process.
Clay
Clay pipes are particularly vulnerable to physical stresses due to their older design and material properties. They are brittle and porous, making them prone to cracking or breaking under the high-pressure streams used in hydro jetting. Special care should be taken to assess their structural integrity beforehand to avoid issues like a Burst Water Pipe, potentially opting for less invasive methods when feasible.
How to Use Hydro Jetting Safely on Old Pipes
Taking proper precautions can reduce the risks of hydro jetting on old pipes. To ensure a safe cleaning process, consider the following steps:
Conduct Thorough Inspections Before Hydro Jetting
Regular inspections by a qualified plumber can identify weak spots, corrosion, or existing damage that might be worsened by hydro jetting. For services like Pool Skimmer Box Replacement, understanding the condition of your pipes helps tailor the process to minimise risk.
Use Customised Pressure Settings
Adjust the pressure settings of the hydro jetting equipment to suit the specific needs of your pipes. Older or more fragile pipes may require lower pressure to avoid damage, so professional input here is crucial.
Employ Experienced Professionals
Always use experienced and knowledgeable professionals for hydro jetting. Their expertise enables them to assess and adjust their approach to care for old plumbing systems effectively and safely.
Incorporate Preventative Maintenance
Engage in regular maintenance beyond hydro jetting to keep your plumbing in optimal condition. This includes routine checks and cleaning that can prevent the severe buildup that necessitates intense hydro jetting pressures.
Opt for Gradual Cleaning Sessions
Instead of a single, intense cleaning session, consider scheduling gradual, less intensive cleanings. This approach can help avoid the sudden stress that hydro jetting might place on old pipes, reducing the chance of damage.
Summing Up
Hydro jetting is a highly effective and safe method for clearing blocked drains, even in older pipes, when done carefully. Assessing the condition of your pipes and adjusting the water pressure ensures a thorough clean without risking damage. With proper precautions, hydro jetting remains a reliable solution for maintaining your plumbing.
