Common issues we fix
- Recurring blockages and slow-draining fixtures
- Bad odours and trapped wastewater
- Blocked external drains and gullies
- Emergency overflows and backups
TL;DR
Drain jetting uses a high-pressure water hose — up to 4,000 PSI — fed into the pipe to strip grease, scale, silt, and root growth from the pipe wall and flush it towards the sewer. It's non-invasive, works on most pipe materials when the pressure is matched to the pipe, and is often paired with a CCTV camera to target exactly where cleaning is needed. Request a fast, fixed-price quote online — the price is confirmed before we start.
Pressure, and hot vs cold water
Our jetting units run at pressures up to 4,000 PSI, with the nozzle and pressure setting adjusted to the pipe material and the deposit being removed — lower settings for older clay pipes common across Cardiff's Victorian terraces, higher settings for modern plastic systems handling heavy grease or scale. Most residential jetting uses cold water, which is effective against silt, scale, and general debris. Hot water jetting is reserved for heavy grease and fat build-up, typically in commercial kitchens, where the heat helps break down solidified fat that cold water alone won't shift.
Root cutting
Tree roots are one of the most common causes of repeat blockages in Cardiff's older streets, where mature trees sit close to Victorian clay drainage. Rather than just clearing the blockage and leaving the root mass to regrow, we can fit a root-cutting head to the jetting hose — a rotating cutter that shears root growth back to the pipe wall as it passes through, in the same visit as the jetting work. This is carried out as part of a standard drain jetting appointment; it isn't a separate call-out.
Weighing up jetting against traditional drain rods? Read our comparison of drain jetting vs drain rods. Request a fast, fixed-price quote online. Get a fixed-price quote →
What's included
- Initial on-site diagnosis and access checks
- Professional clearance equipment and safety setup
- Transparent explanation of required work
- Aftercare advice and prevention tips
Our process
Inspect
We assess symptoms and isolate the likely blockage point.
Resolve
We clear and clean drains using the right method for the issue.
Prevent
We provide practical recommendations to reduce repeat callouts.
Drain Jetting — frequently asked questions
Is high-pressure drain jetting safe for old pipes?
Yes, when performed by professionals. We adjust the water pressure based on the pipe material and condition to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
How often should drains be jetted?
For most residential properties, annual or bi-annual jetting helps prevent blockages. Commercial kitchens may require more frequent maintenance due to grease buildup.
Do you charge a call-out fee?
No, Emergency Plumber Cardiff 247 does not charge any call-out fees. You only pay for the work completed.
How quickly can you arrive in an emergency?
For urgent drainage issues, we aim to arrive promptly across Cardiff and surrounding areas, with urgent jobs prioritised.
Are you available for emergencies?
Yes, we offer 24/7 emergency drainage services across Cardiff and surrounding areas. Request a quote online for immediate assistance.
How much does drain unblocking cost?
Costs depend on access, blockage severity, and whether repairs are needed. We give a clear fixed quote before work starts, so you know exactly what you're paying for.
Helpful articles
Drain Services
Drain Jetting vs Drain Rods: Which Method is Best?
Not all drain clearing methods are equal. Learn when jetting beats rods and why professionals prefer high-pressure water.
Drain MaintenanceHow to Prevent Blocked Kitchen Drains: A Complete Guide
Kitchen drains are the most commonly blocked drains in UK homes. Learn how to prevent costly blockages with these simple daily habits.