If you’ve encountered clogging issues in your drain, many homeowners need to hire a professional sewer cleaner who’ll charge considerably for this job. These cleaners often use a sewer jetter to dislodge these deposits and clean the drain. Fortunately, this need for a professional sewer jetter can be avoided if you own a pressure washer.
Use a pressure washer as a sewer jetter.
A pressure washer can be used as a sewer jetter. However, professional plumbers advise exercising caution in this regard. The reason is that the pressure washing system should use the proper nozzles and hoses essential for drain cleaning. Furthermore, pipes that are already too flimsy shouldn’t be exposed to a high-pressure water jet.
Although some professionals do not recommend using a pressure washer as a sewer jetter, it can easily be converted to be used as one. Let’s discuss how to convert a pressure washer into a sewer jetter with some easy steps. But first, I will explain why some experts are reluctant to use a pressure washer as a sewer jetter.
Contents
- 1 Reasons for Not Using a Pressure Washer as a Drain Cleaner
- 2 Converting Pressure Washer to a Sewer Jetter
- 3 How Do You Unclog a Sewer with A Pressure Washer?
- 4 How much is PSI needed to jet a drain?
Reasons for Not Using a Pressure Washer as a Drain Cleaner
There are some reservations that the drain cleaning pros have against this specific application of a pressure washer.
- Low Flow Rate: Although a pressure washer produces a pressurized stream of water, this force is insufficient to unclog drain and sewage drain. This is primarily due to a low water flow rate (about 2 to 4 GPM) in pressure washers compared to a sewer jetter (about 4 to 9 GPM). A pressure washer may fail to fulfill the objective for some sticky residues.
- Damage to Pipes: Pipes are more prone to rust or damage and are at the mercy of such high-water pressure. Since such a forceful stream can damage the structure of these drain pipes, causing cracks or leaks that can be pretty expensive to repair.
- Nozzles and Hoses: Conversion from a pressure washer to a sewer jetter requires the right modification tools, such as hoses, ball valves, and nozzles. These nozzles are essential to control the pressure as per the requirement. Standard pressure washers often lack this equipment. Improper equipment use can become a problem by causing leaks or damage.
Converting Pressure Washer to a Sewer Jetter
To convert a pressure washer to a sewer jetter, first, attach the hose to a ball valve connected to a jumper hose. The hose is then linked to a hose reel and a jetter nozzle.
The end of the attachment of the trigger gun is replaced with a ball valve with quick connects. From this point, a five-foot jumper hose is attached to the ball valve. Afterward, the jumper hose is then linked to the hose reel. The final step would be to install the jetter nozzle. Every kit comes with three different sets of nozzles: the ram, the laser, and the rotor.
The next step is to assemble the jetter conversion kit. It follows some basic steps, which are listed below:
- Step 1. Attachment of Pressure Washer Hose: The first step is to attach the pressure washer hose to the output of the pressure washer pump.
- Step 2. Connection of Ball Valve: The next step is to attach the available ball valve at the other end of the pressure washer hose. This is the replacement for the trigger gun we mentioned above, and it assists us in controlling the water flow adequately according to demand.
- Step 3. Linking the Jumper Hose: Attach the jumper hose to the open end of the ball valve.
- Step 4. Attachment of Reel Base: Attach the other end of the jumper hose to the reel’s base.
- Step 5. Connecting the Nozzle: The last step is the selection of the proper nozzle according to our requirements. The nozzle is attached by Teflon tape.
These are the basic steps through which a pressure washer can be converted easily into a sewer jetter for cleaning clogged drains and sewers.
Now let’s discuss the procedure to clean sewers with a pressure washer and some tips you should follow.
How Do You Unclog a Sewer with A Pressure Washer?
Your sewer pipes may be blocked due to various reasons. A blocked drain is neither an alluring sight nor pleasant to everyone’s olfactory senses. These clogged drains can be costly to repair or maintain via private companies. Some of these reasons could be:
Causes of Sewer Blockage
Below are some leading causes that clog your drains and must be removed as early as possible. These causes include:
- Non-Degradable Items: Non-degradable items include plastic bags, polythene, polyvinyl, bottles, etc., that people carelessly toss into the drain, hoping to make it to the dump. Sanitary napkins, wipes, and even cigarette butts can block the drains pretty severely.
- Sediment and Calcium Buildup: Flowing water stores sediments, such as minerals, that tend to deposit along the walls over time. This gradual deposit shortens the diameter of the pipes, making it easier for garbage and sewage to clog.
- Grease Buildup: Most kitchen drains face this critical issue. The grease from dishwashing, food, cooking, and cleaning can eventually clog up a drain. It is because of the superior tensile and cohesive forces that lipid molecules generally possess.
- Plumbing: Small Pipes, Incorrect Slopes, Improper Venting, etc., can all be accorded as important reasons that can disrupt the normal flow of drains. These issues are generally caused by negligent and inefficient plumbing.
- Tree Roots: Trees planted close to the drain are the most common reason for the drain to be clogged because of their uncontrolled root growth. It can eventually damage the pipes and create rifts and breaks that are too costly to repair.
- Debris: All those objects flowing out of washrooms and bathrooms, such as soap, shampoo, hair, and foreign entities, can ultimately lead to blockages in the sewage systems.
Unclogging a Sewer Drain
Once the water that flows through the drain is stagnated, the wastes start to pile up and create a smell and can often cause discomfort for everyone around. Therefore, let’s look at how to use a pressure washer to save this mess.
A simple test can be performed to confirm that your drains are facing a blockage. Flush your toilet and see if it blows back into the air. If it does, your drains have ample sewage clogging them up.
Opening the inspection chamber, you might find a pile of sewage that stinks and needs immediate removal.
Steps to Unclog a Sewer Using a Pressure Washer
Follow the guidelines below to unclog a sewer with a pressure washer:
– Step 1: Find the Right Equipment
I recommend using a 130-bar electric or gas-pressure washer for efficient use and application. The most essential equipment besides the pressure washer is the brass bayonet fitting, 20-meter-long hose. I also recommend purchasing a pipe and gutter cleaning kit, available online and at hardware stores.
The hose comes in various sizes, from 20-100 meters long, depending upon the extent of cleaning. The brass bayonet helps attach to the device, while the other end has a brass tip that is precisely shaped to wade through the sewage.
– Step 2: Personal Protection
It is also advised to protect yourself against splashes as the sewage is the abode of various life-threatening bacteria, fungi, and viruses. I recommend wearing thick rubber gauntlets and PPE.
– Step 3: Check the Nozzle Head
The head of the hose contains openings to eject water out in a 3D manner in different directions for proper cleaning. Although unnecessary, you can also drill a hole depending on your demands.
– Step 4: Insertion into The Drain
Next, carefully insert the hose into the drain to break ahead of the raw sewage and clean it. Eventually, you will feel resistance or blockage where the hose refuses to go further.
Using a thrusting to and fro motion, try to break down the clog adherent to the drain walls. If the resistance does not diminish with the round brass head, you can replace it with a circular spinning driller to remove sewage.
Circular Spinning Drill
After pushing the hose through, use the water’s pressure to displace the sewage forcefully. The spinning driller will work if the scum is too stubborn for blunt force.
Use a high-pressure stream first to break down the cohesion and then, with lesser pressure, clean around the drain using the 3D water mechanism that the head of the hose had.
Ensuring Performance
The main cleaning has been achieved. To check if it was successful, pour water inside the drain to see if it quickly flows away. If it does, you have finally managed to clean the sewage using a pressure washer and saved yourself a considerable expense.
How much is PSI needed to jet a drain?
Although regular pressure washers are available in various ranges depending upon the pressure they provide, for a generalized hydro jetting that requires specific hoses and nozzles to unclog drains, a 1500 PSI pressure washer is most commonly used.
Normal Recommended Pressure
The normal recommended pressure is the amount of pressure that professional plumbers recommend. However, depending upon the strength and intensity of the clog, the 1500 PSI pressure can be increased to 3000-5000 PSI.
But, such immense pressure is only needed on rare occasions while working with regular domestic drains, as specific issues can arise.
Pipeline Condition
The condition and health of the pipes determine the PSI of the washer. Applying a large pressure can damage weaker, corroded, and older pipes, leading to leaks and breaks that can impede drainage.
Precise management of stress and force is recommended to clear sewage pipes with a pressure washer. It is best to consult a professional plumber if the drains do not unclog upon using pressure as high as 5000 PSI on the washer.
Professional Consultancy
If you are unsure of yourself, I recommend seeking help from a professional plumber. This will cost something, but it can save a lot as well. You can damage the pipe if something goes wrong, which can be costly and hard to fix.
Professional plumbers can aptly analyze the drainage system and provide a visual image of the condition of the sewage lines and the clog. The camera, like an endoscope, helps visualize areas that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
The camera may also reveal any waterproof coating or if the treatment was beneficial. Hydro jetting from untrained professionals might create more significant sewage issues.
How can homeowners identify if tree roots are causing blockages in their drains that require pressure washer cleaning?
A pressure washer can serve as a sewer jetter to clear drains. However, it’s crucial to proceed with caution using proper nozzles and hoses to avoid damaging pipes.
This is great information on how to convert a pressure washer into a sewer jetter. I appreciate the step-by-step guide.
Thank you, Rebecca! I’m glad you found the guide helpful. Remember to use caution when converting a pressure washer to a sewer jetter. Enjoy cleaning those drains!
I appreciate the advice on consulting a professional plumber if unsure about using a pressure washer for drain cleaning. Safety comes first.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment, Kitty! Safety should always come first when dealing with drain cleaning. It’s best to consult a professional when in doubt.
What are the potential dangers of attempting to convert a pressure washer into a sewer jetter without proper guidance?
I recommend seeking guidance before converting a pressure washer into a sewer jetter to prevent damage to pipes and ensure proper equipment use. Thank you for raising this important concern.
I never knew that non-degradable items could cause sewer blockages. This article has opened my eyes to potential drain issues.
Thank you, Luis! It’s great to hear that the article provided you with valuable information on potential drain issues. Remember to exercise caution when converting a pressure washer into a sewer jetter.
Thank you for providing information on the causes of sewer blockages and how to unclog them with a pressure washer. It’s very informative.
Thank you for reading! Keep in mind the risks of using a pressure washer as a sewer jetter. It’s always best to consult a professional plumber for such services.
I didn’t know that you could use a pressure washer as a sewer jetter. It’s interesting to learn about this alternative method.
Thank you, Tammy! It’s great to hear that you found the alternative method of using a pressure washer as a sewer jetter interesting. It’s always good to explore new ways to tackle common household issues.
Are there specific pressure washer models that are better suited for converting into a sewer jetter?
You can convert a pressure washer into a sewer jetter, but be cautious with proper equipment to avoid damaging pipes. Remember to use the correct nozzles and hoses.
What are some signs that indicate a sewer blockage that requires cleaning with a pressure washer?
Using a pressure washer as a sewer jetter can be risky due to potential pipe damage and lack of proper equipment. Exercise caution before attempting.
Can sediment and calcium buildup be prevented in drains to avoid blockages that necessitate pressure washer cleaning?
Yes, a pressure washer can be used as a sewer jetter, but be cautious as it requires proper nozzles and hoses for drain cleaning. Be sure your pipes can handle the pressure.
It’s fascinating to learn how a pressure washer can be converted into a sewer jetter. This article provided valuable insights.
Thank you, Vicki! It’s great to know you found the article insightful. I appreciate your feedback and hope the information proves helpful in your future endeavors.
Are there any specific safety precautions to take when using a pressure washer to unclog sewers?
Using a pressure washer as a sewer jetter can be effective if done correctly. Exercise caution, use the proper attachments, and avoid using high pressure on fragile pipes. Stay safe!
Is there a limit to the type of clogs a pressure washer can effectively remove from drains?
Pressure washers can effectively remove many types of clogs in drains, but caution should be exercised. Ensure proper equipment, nozzles, and hoses are used. Avoid high-pressure on weak pipes.
How much money can be saved by using a pressure washer instead of hiring a professional sewer cleaner?
A pressure washer can save you money instead of hiring a professional sewer cleaner, but be cautious due to potential pipe damage and the need for proper equipment.
What are the risks of using a pressure washer instead of a sewer jetter for drain cleaning?
Naomi, using a pressure washer as a sewer jetter can be risky due to low flow rates and potential pipe damage. Consider consulting a professional plumber for advice.
Can a pressure washer really be as effective as a sewer jetter in cleaning drains?
A pressure washer can indeed be effective, but caution is advised due to potential pipe damage. Proper equipment, like nozzles and hoses, is essential for safety and success.
Thank you for breaking down the process of converting a pressure washer into a sewer jetter. It’s helpful to know the precautions and steps involved in utilizing this method effectively.
I’m glad you found the information helpful! Remember to exercise caution when converting a pressure washer into a sewer jetter. Safety first!
How often should a pressure washer be used as a sewer jetter to prevent clogging issues in drains?
A pressure washer can be used as a sewer jetter, but it’s advised to exercise caution and use the proper equipment to avoid damage or leaks in pipes.
Is it common for homeowners to use pressure washers for drain cleaning instead of hiring professionals?
It’s possible, but caution is advised. Converting a pressure washer into a sewer jetter requires the right nozzles and hoses that are essential for drain cleaning. Improper use can lead to leaks or damage.
Thank you for explaining the recommended PSI for jetting a drain with a pressure washer. It’s essential information to know for effective cleaning.
Thank you for reading! Always exercise caution and follow professional advice when using a pressure washer as a sewer jetter to clean drains. Happy cleaning!
Using a pressure washer seems like a cost-effective way to clean drains. I’m glad I learned about this alternative method.
Thank you for your interest in using a pressure washer as a cost-effective way to clean drains. Just remember to take necessary precautions to avoid damaging the pipes.