- HEP Plumbing
- Hydro-jetting Stubborn Blockages

Hydro-jetting Stubborn Blockages
Hydro-jetting Stubborn Blockages | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Knoxville
When a slow drain suddenly turns into standing water and foul odors, you need more than a plunger—you need HEP’s hydro-jetting power. Our certified Knoxville technicians blast away years of grease, roots, and mineral buildup with a high-pressure stream that scours pipe walls clean without harsh chemicals. Hydro-jetting restores full flow, reduces future clogs, and keeps wastewater where it belongs, making it the gold standard for tough main line issues.
Skip the guesswork and get your pipes back to peak performance today. One call brings a fully equipped HEP crew to your door, ready to inspect, jet, and verify every inch of your main line. You’ll feel the difference in every sink, shower, and toilet—backed by the trustworthy service Knoxville homeowners have counted on for decades. Schedule your hydro-jetting appointment now and say goodbye to stubborn blockages for good!
FAQs
What is hydro-jetting and how does it clear stubborn main-line blockages?
Hydro-jetting is a drain-cleaning technique that uses a specialized nozzle to blast highly pressurized water—typically 3,000–4,000 PSI—through your sewer or main drain line. The water stream scours the full internal diameter of the pipe, cutting through tree roots, hardened grease, mineral scale, soap buildup, and other debris that a conventional cable snake often leaves behind. The force not only removes the clog but also flushes the loosened residue all the way to the city sewer connection, restoring full flow capacity.
How can I tell if my Knoxville home’s main sewer line needs hydro-jetting?
Common signs include frequent or simultaneous backups in multiple fixtures (toilets gurgling when the washer drains, shower water rising when you flush, etc.), slow drains throughout the house, foul sewer odors in the yard or basement, and recurring clogs that come back soon after snaking. A video camera inspection—standard with our service—confirms whether a solid obstruction, heavy grease layer, or root intrusion is present and if hydro-jetting is the recommended solution.
Is hydro-jetting safe for older clay, cast-iron, or PVC pipes?
Yes—when performed by a licensed Knoxville plumber who adjusts the pressure and nozzle type to the pipe material and condition. Before jetting, we run a camera to check for collapsed or severely cracked sections that could be worsened by high pressure. If the line is structurally sound, we can dial down the PSI for brittle clay or aging cast iron, or use a rotational root-cutting nozzle for PVC. This customized approach cleans effectively without damaging the pipe walls.
What does the hydro-jetting process involve and how long does it take?
1. On-site assessment and camera inspection (15–30 minutes). 2. Selection of the proper jetting nozzle and PSI based on pipe size and material. 3. Insertion of the hose through the clean-out or pulled toilet. The jetter works both upstream and downstream until the camera shows a debris-free, glistening interior (30–90 minutes depending on blockage severity and line length). 4. Final camera inspection and written report so you can see the before-and-after results. Most residential jobs are completed in under two hours and you can immediately resume normal water use.
How does hydro-jetting compare to traditional drain snaking or chemical cleaners?
• Effectiveness: A snake only bores a small hole through the clog; hydro-jetting cleans the entire circumference of the pipe. • Longevity: Because it removes all residue, hydro-jetted lines stay open much longer, reducing repeat service calls. • Environmental safety: Only water is used—no harsh acids or caustic chemicals that can corrode pipes or harm Knoxville’s waterways. • Cost efficiency: The upfront price is higher than snaking, but the extended clog-free period and reduced emergency visits often make it the most economical option in the long run.
How much does hydro-jetting cost in Knoxville and do you offer emergency service?
For most residential main lines (up to 100 ft), prices range from $350–$600, which includes the pre- and post-jet camera inspection. Factors such as severe root intrusion, lack of an accessible clean-out, or lines longer than 100 ft can affect the final quote. We provide upfront, flat-rate pricing before any work begins. 24/7 emergency hydro-jetting is available across Knox County with no additional after-hours fee for Priority Club members, and most urgent calls are handled within 90 minutes.