Hydro-jetting Stubborn Grease
Hydro-jetting Stubborn Grease | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Andersonville
When Andersonville kitchens grind to a halt because of stubborn grease, HEP fires up high-pressure hydro-jetting that obliterates blockages instead of just poking holes through them. Our technicians snake a hose that blasts water up to 4,000 PSI, scouring every inch of pipe so food particles, fats, and soap scum have nowhere to hide. The result is a drain line restored to its original diameter, free-flowing and odor-free—often in less time than a lunch rush break. From bustling restaurants on Clark Street to busy apartment complexes, we deliver the muscle and precision that ordinary augers can’t touch.
Behind the power washer is a team that understands commercial plumbing inside and out. We schedule service around your peak hours, arrive with floor mats and cleanup gear, and offer video inspections to prove the job’s done right. Call HEP today and turn that ticking grease bomb back into a smooth, reliable drain system that keeps your staff cooking and your customers happy.
FAQs
What is hydro-jetting and how does it remove stubborn grease in commercial plumbing systems?
Hydro-jetting is a non-invasive pipe-cleaning method that propels water at pressures up to 4,000 PSI through a specialized nozzle. The high-velocity stream scours the interior walls of the drain line, cutting through layers of congealed grease, food sludge, and soap residue that traditional cabling or snaking tools can only poke holes through. Because the jetting nozzle is pulled slowly back through the line, it flushes debris down into the main sewer, leaving the full pipe diameter restored and minimizing future grease buildup.
Is hydro-jetting safe for older cast-iron or PVC pipes in my Andersonville facility?
Yes—when performed by a licensed commercial plumber who gauges pipe integrity first. We begin every service with a video camera inspection to verify line material, thickness, and existing damage. Pressure is then adjusted accordingly: lower settings (1,500–2,000 PSI) for fragile or PVC lines and higher settings for sturdy cast iron or schedule-80 PVC. Because hydro-jetting relies only on water, it avoids the corrosive effects of chemical degreasers, making it safer for aging infrastructure than many alternative methods.
How often should Andersonville restaurants or commercial kitchens schedule hydro-jetting to prevent grease clogs?
Frequency depends on the volume of grease your operation generates. For most restaurants, cafeterias, and bakeries in Andersonville, semi-annual jetting (every 6 months) keeps lines clear and compliant with City of Chicago FOG (Fats, Oils & Grease) regulations. High-volume fry kitchens or food-processing plants may need quarterly service, while offices with small breakrooms can usually jet annually. After an initial cleaning, we provide a video report and maintenance calendar tailored to your usage patterns.
Does hydro-jetting comply with Chicago plumbing codes and local grease-trap ordinances?
Absolutely. Hydro-jetting is an approved maintenance procedure under the Illinois Plumbing Code and the City of Chicago Department of Water Management’s FOG Control Program. By keeping lateral lines free of grease, the service helps your establishment meet discharge limits (100 mg/L of oil & grease) and avoid fines or mandatory pumping orders. We provide post-service documentation—camera footage, PSI logs, and a written report—that you can show to health inspectors or insurance carriers.
Will hydro-jetting disrupt my business operations or require shutting down the kitchen?
Disruption is minimal. For most 2- to 4-inch commercial lines, hydro-jetting takes 60–90 minutes start to finish. We schedule service during off-peak hours—early morning, late night, or between meal shifts—to keep your kitchen running. Because the process is chemical-free, there’s no curing time: once we flush and test-run fixtures, you can reopen drains immediately. Large facilities with multiple lines may opt for phased cleaning so only one section is offline at a time.
How much does commercial hydro-jetting cost in Andersonville and what factors influence the price?
Pricing typically ranges from $450 to $1,200 per line. Key factors include: 1) Pipe diameter and length—the longer or wider the pipe, the more time and water required; 2) Severity of grease buildup—a completely blocked line may need multiple passes; 3) Accessibility—rooftop vents or underground clean-outs increase labor; 4) Off-hours or emergency calls (nights, weekends) carry premium rates; and 5) Add-ons such as video inspection or preventative enzyme treatments. We provide a flat upfront estimate after the initial camera survey, with no hidden disposal or environmental fees.