Winter weather in Grand Rapids, MI, can put added stress on your plumbing system, especially your sewer lines. Freezing temperatures, heavier indoor water use, and increased holiday hosting all raise the risk of clogs, slow drains, and sewer backups. Preparing your sewer system before winter arrives can help prevent unexpected plumbing emergencies.

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing®, we offer professional hydro jetting services designed to thoroughly clean sewer lines and remove buildup before it becomes a problem. Hydro jetting clears debris such as grease, oils, roots, and mineral deposits, helping sewer lines flow more reliably throughout the winter months.

Hydro Jetting Basics

Hydro jetting is a professional drain-cleaning method that uses high-pressure water to clear blockages and clean the interior walls of pipes. Depending on the condition of the line and the type of buildup present, water pressure may range from lower levels for light cleaning to higher pressures for heavy debris and root intrusion.

The high-pressure stream breaks apart blockages and flushes residue from the full circumference of the pipe, not just the center. This makes hydro jetting more thorough than many traditional drain-cleaning methods.

In most cases, plumbers begin hydro jetting with a camera inspection. This allows us to locate blockages, assess the severity of buildup, and check for existing pipe damage. A follow-up camera inspection may be performed after hydro jetting to confirm that the line is clear and flowing properly.

Why Winter Can Be Hard on Sewer Lines

Cold weather can affect how waste moves through sewer systems. Lower soil temperatures may slow the natural breakdown of organic material, allowing grease, soap residue, and debris to harden inside pipes. In some situations, extremely cold conditions can contribute to partial freezing or restricted flow.

The winter season often brings increased kitchen activity. Holiday cooking and entertaining can send more fats, oils, and grease down drains. These materials are more likely to solidify in colder temperatures, increasing the risk of buildup and blockages.

Freeze and thaw cycles can also cause subtle shifts in the ground. Over time, this movement may impact sewer pipes and encourage tree roots to seek out moisture through small cracks or joints. While roots cannot always be prevented, hydro jetting can remove early intrusion before it causes serious damage.

The Benefits of Winter Hydro Jetting

Hydro jetting provides a thorough cleaning that helps prevent clogs before they disrupt your home. Unlike store-bought chemical drain cleaners, which can be corrosive and damaging to pipes, hydro jetting relies solely on pressurized water.

Drain snakes can be effective for simple clogs, but they may not fully remove buildup from pipe walls. Hydro jetting cleans the entire interior surface, reducing the likelihood of recurring issues.

Because hydro jetting uses only water, it is also an environmentally responsible option. Chemical cleaners can leach into soil and groundwater, while hydro jetting avoids introducing harsh substances into the environment.

Scheduling preventive maintenance before winter can also reduce the risk of emergency plumbing calls during harsh weather or holiday periods, when scheduling service may be more difficult.

When Should Hydro Jetting Be Scheduled?

Many homeowners benefit from hydro jetting once every one to two years, though the ideal frequency depends on factors such as household size, water usage, cooking habits, and the age of the plumbing system. Homes with frequent cooking, large families, or recurring drain issues may benefit from more regular service.

Late summer or early fall is often an ideal time to schedule hydro jetting. Performing the service before the ground freezes makes it easier to address any repairs if issues are discovered during inspection. It also helps ensure your sewer system is prepared before increased holiday use.

Signs that hydro jetting may be needed include slow-moving drains, recurring clogs, gurgling toilets, foul odors from drains, or unexplained pooling water in the yard. These symptoms may indicate buildup or damage that should be addressed promptly.

Important Hydro Jetting Considerations

Not all sewer lines are suitable for high-pressure cleaning. Older pipes or lines with significant corrosion or structural damage may require lower pressure or alternative solutions. This is why professional inspection is essential before hydro jetting is performed.

Minor root intrusion does not always require immediate pipe replacement. Hydro jetting can remove roots inside the pipe and help restore flow. However, repeated root problems may indicate the need for trenchless sewer repair or replacement to prevent future backups.

Keeping records of past sewer issues, including root intrusion or frequent grease buildup, can help guide future maintenance decisions. Monitoring these patterns allows plumbers to recommend long-term solutions that protect your plumbing system.

Hydro jetting is often an affordable and effective preventive service, though simpler clogs may sometimes be resolved with traditional drain cleaning methods. A licensed plumber can determine the best approach based on the condition of your sewer line and your budget.

If you are interested in learning more about hydro jetting or scheduling service, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® in Grand Rapids is here to help. We also provide pipe repairs, trenchless sewer solutions, emergency plumbing services, and ongoing maintenance to keep your home protected all winter long. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our sewer line services.