If you’re staring down a stubborn mainline clog, you’re probably Googling hydro jetting cost and wondering what a fair price looks like. Short answer: in most U.S. metros, homeowners pay about $350–$600, with national averages often cited around $475 for standard residential jobs.
What Is Hydro Jetting—and When Is It Worth It?
Hydro jetting uses a specialized nozzle and very high-pressure water to scour a drain or sewer line wall-to-wall, flushing out grease, sludge, scale, and even intrusive roots. Pros commonly run jets at ~4,000 PSI (and adjust flow/pressure to conditions) to restore full diameter and flow. You’ll consider jetting when snaking keeps giving you short-term relief, lines are grease-packed, or roots keep coming back.
Hydro Jetting Cost: National Averages in 2025
Most residential hydro jetting jobs fall in the $350–$600 range, averaging ~$475. Severe blockages, longer runs, tricky access, or commercial settings can push higher—some shops list occasional bills above $1,000+ when conditions are complex.
What drives the price up or down?
- Severity & type of blockage (grease vs. roots vs. sludge). Root intrusions and heavy build-up often take more time and multiple passes.
- Line length & access (cleanout vs. through a fixture), and regional labor rates.
- Add-ons like diagnostics—many pros recommend a camera inspection before/after jetting to confirm the problem and success. Typical sewer camera inspection averages are frequently quoted in the $270–$1,737 range nationally, with many homeowners paying $125–$500 when access is simple.
Typical line items you may see
- Service call / minimum
- Hydro jetting labor & equipment (often flat-rated for a first hour)
- Camera inspection (before/after)
- Cleanout install or access work (if your system lacks a usable cleanout)
Hydro Jetting vs. Snaking: Cost & Outcome
For minor clogs, snaking is cheaper—often ~$145–$300 for a single branch line—and can be a fine first step. But snaking mainly punches a hole; it doesn’t scrub pipe walls. Hydro jetting costs more up front but removes the buildup that causes repeat backups, which can be cheaper long-term if your line re-clogs regularly.
When Can Hydro Jetting Exceed $600?
- Extensive root cutting or heavy grease fields (more time, multiple passes).
- Commercial or multi-unit lines (larger diameter, longer runs, after-hours access).
- No cleanout / hard access (additional labor to reach the line, or a cleanout installation).
How to Keep Your Bill in Check
- Ask for a bundled quote that includes jetting and camera verification—you’ll avoid duplicate trip charges and know the job’s done right.
- Schedule non-emergency hours if possible; after-hours rates add up (big brands often flat-rate but charge premiums for emergencies).
- Fix access once—adding a code-compliant cleanout can make any future service faster and cheaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does hydro jetting cost for a typical home?
Most homeowners pay $350–$600 (about $475 average) for a standard residential mainline. Complex clogs, longer lines, or tough access can increase the total.
2. Is a camera inspection really necessary—and what does it cost?
It’s strongly recommended. A sewer camera inspection confirms the cause (roots, grease, broken pipe) and verifies the clean. Expect ~$125–$500 in many cases, though national data shows a broader range up to $1,700+ depending on scope and access.
3. Is hydro jetting safer for pipes than snaking?
Used correctly, yes—pros choose pressure and flow to match pipe material and condition. Typical residential jetting around ~4,000 PSI is designed to clear buildup without damaging sound pipes; the pre-inspection helps flag fragile sections.
4. How does hydro jetting compare to snaking on price?
Snaking is usually cheaper upfront (~$145–$300 for a branch line), while hydro jetting averages ~$350–$600. If your line re-clogs often, jetting’s deeper clean can reduce repeat service calls.
The Bottom Line: Pay Once, Fix It Right (Hydro Jetting Cost Made Clear)
If you’re comparing quotes, anchor on the hydro jetting cost range of $350–$600 for standard residential work, then factor in camera inspection and any access fixes. Ask providers for bundled pricing, proof-of-clear (video), and a brief prevention plan (grease habits, root control). With that checklist, you’ll pay a fair price today—and avoid déjà-vu clogs tomorrow.
