In our previews articles we discussed what hydro jetting is, how much it costs and we went over some pros and cons. Now let’s talk about making this drain cleaning method a part of your regular maintenance program as well as when is the best time to schedule a hydro jetting service.
Maintaining your plumbing system
Maintaining your plumbing system’s healthy and working condition, is something you should work on, on a regular basis to catch and prevent small problems that can quickly escalate into big, expensive jobs. This can also help you conserve water usage and lower your bills as well.
Hydro Jetting is one of the most effective ways of clearing and cleaning your pipes as it cuts through every type of buildup without the use of harsh chemicals that can weaken your pipes over time. For this reason scheduling a hydro jetting service on a yearly basis, is something worth considering.
Hydro Jetting in the fall
Fall time is the most ideal time to schedule a hydro jetting service as it helps to prepare your plumbing system for the cold winter months. As winter approaches, dried up leaves, salt and sand can easily make their way into your drain system.
A hydro jetting service includes a camera inspection of your pipes, to identify any weak spots and problem areas. This can also help detect water leaks which you’d want to take care of before the temperatures start to significantly drop. This can cause even a small water leak to freeze and expand, creating cracks and damaging your pipe, even causing it to burst.
Is it safe to schedule a Hydro Jetting service in the winter?
The short answer is – yes! In the case of a severe clog, do not hesitate to call your professional plumber of choice and schedule a hydro jet drain cleaning. Any professional plumber will have what is necessary to keep hydro jetting equipment running in the cold temperatures. Tanks that hold the water needed to perform hydro jetting are specially kept and maintained to ensure that the water does not freeze and is available to perform the necessary task.
Because the freezing temperatures and hazards that come with can make your plumbing system vulnerable, it is ideal that you get this service scheduled ahead of time to prevent any further damage. However, that fact alone should not motivate you to put off the problem until spring time, or worse keep you from addressing the issue all together.
Pipes freezing are the biggest concern for homeowners during the winter months. However, your pipes are meant for water to flow through them, so a hydro jetting service does not include anything your pipes cannot handle, unless they are older and frail.
How to prevent pipes freezing during winter months
If you are worried about your pipes freezing or getting damaged during the winter months, here’s a few steps to take to prevent problems:
- Isolate pipes in areas that are exposed to the outside freezing temperatures. This includes your basement, crawl spaces and any pipes that are outside. Pipe insulation is most commonly made of fiberglass, polyethylene or foam and is fairly inexpensive.
- Keep water flowing through your pipes. This can be done by leaving your faucets on a slow drip, to keep water moving, which will prevent it from freezing. This is only advised when temperatures reach extreme lows, so roughly speaking, temperatures below 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Seal any cracks and openings around windows, exterior door frames, TV / WiFi / cable wire holes in walls and floors. To do this you can use caulk and apply it directly around pipes. This will keep warm air in and increase your home’s insulation.
Hydro Jetting is an excellent way to keep your drains clean, well maintained, and working properly all year long. Call VIP Drain Services today to get your plumbing inspected and schedule a hydro jet drain cleaning and remember that for plumbing emergencies, we are available 24/7!