Pressure washing of drains is an effective method for clearing blockages, but the impact varies significantly between different pipe materials. Modern plastic and PVC pipes can usually withstand a pressure washer without any problems, while older pipes made of cast iron, concrete or clay require more care. Professionals always assess the condition of the pipes before starting a pressure washer to avoid damage. This article answers the most common questions about how pressure washers affect different pipe materials.
What is a car wash and how does it work?
A water jetter is a purpose-built vehicle equipped with a high-pressure pump, water tank and long, flexible hoses with rotating nozzles. The water jetter works by pumping water through the hose at high pressure, typically between 150 and 300 bar. The nozzles spray jets of water in multiple directions, both forward and backward, which loosen and flush away deposits, grease, limescale and other blockages from the pipe wall.
The process usually begins with an inspection of the pipe system, often using a camera that is lowered into the drain. This gives professionals an overview of the pipe condition, material type and the extent of the problem. Once the inspection is complete, the hose of the flushing truck is lowered into the pipe from an inspection point or sump. The water jet works its way through the blockage while the nozzles rotate and thoroughly clean the pipe wall.
The pressure is adjusted according to the pipe material and condition. Newer plastic pipes can withstand higher pressures than older, fragile materials. Professionals also regulate the water flow and nozzle selection to achieve the best result without damaging the pipes. After flushing, the camera is often lowered back down to confirm that the problem has been resolved.
What pipe materials are found in Norwegian sewage systems?
Norwegian sewage systems contain a mixture of materials from different construction periods. PVC plastic and PP plastic are the most common materials in modern installations from the 1970s onwards. These plastic pipes are used both indoors and outdoors due to their durability, low weight and resistance to corrosion.
In older buildings from the 1900s to the 1970s, you will often find cast iron in the interior branch pipes and main drains. Cast iron was long the standard for drain pipes, but it corrodes over time. Concrete pipes were widely used for municipal drains and larger private systems, especially outdoors. These are still found in many older properties.
Other materials include clay (ceramic) pipes that were common before the 1950s, as well as older lead and steel pipes in some buildings. Clay pipes were particularly common in exterior drains and may still be in use in many places. Lead was used for some interior pipes but is rare in drain systems. Knowledge of the type of material is important before performing maintenance or flushing.
How does a car wash affect plastic and PVC pipes?
Modern plastic and PVC pipes handle high-pressure cleaning very well. These materials are designed to withstand high pressure and mechanical stress without deforming or cracking. Plastic pipes have smooth internal surfaces that allow the water jet to glide effectively over the pipe wall and remove deposits without damaging the material itself.
Flushing plastic and PVC pipes is safe when performed by professionals using the right equipment. The pressure can be adjusted up to 200-300 bar without risk of damage to the pipe. The flexibility of plastic pipes also makes them less prone to cracking compared to brittle materials such as concrete or clay.
However, there are some precautions to be taken. Connections and transitions between pipes can be vulnerable points, especially if they are incorrectly installed or have become loose over time. Professionals are aware of these areas and adjust the technique as needed. Transitions between different materials also require extra care, as different materials can withstand different pressures. In general, flushing plastic pipes is a safe and effective method of keeping your drain clear of blockages.
Can a water jetter damage older cast iron or concrete pipes?
Older cast iron, concrete and clay pipes can be damaged by high-pressure water jetting if they are already weakened by aging, corrosion or existing cracks. Cast iron corrodes from the inside over time, making the pipe wall thinner and more fragile. When corrosion is advanced, high pressure from a water jetting truck can exacerbate existing weaknesses or even create new holes.
Concrete pipes can develop cracks and fissures over time due to ground settlement, vibrations or natural aging. The water jet from a water jetting truck can penetrate these cracks and widen them. Concrete can also be eroded from the inside by aggressive chemicals in wastewater, making the material more porous and vulnerable.
Clay pipes are particularly vulnerable because the material is brittle and the joints between the pipe sections are often simple socket joints without rubber seals. These joints can become loose or damaged by high pressure. Professionals therefore take extra precautions when working with clay pipes.
Before flushing older pipes, professional plumbers always perform a thorough inspection with a camera. This reveals the condition of the pipes and any weaknesses. If the pipes show signs of serious decay, professionals may choose lower pressure, gentler nozzles or alternative methods such as mechanical cleaning. The goal is to remove the blockage without worsening existing damage.
When should you avoid high-pressure cleaning of pipes?
High-pressure flushing should be avoided when pipes show signs of serious deterioration or structural weakness. If camera inspection reveals large cracks, holes, or areas of severe corrosion in the pipe wall, flushing can worsen the problem and lead to larger leaks. In such cases, repair or replacement of the pipes is often necessary before maintenance can be safely performed.
Extremely old pipes, especially those over 70-80 years old, require special care. If the pipes are clay or cast iron and have never been maintained, they may be so fragile that even moderate pressure poses a risk. Professionals always consider age and condition before deciding whether flushing is safe.
Other situations where flushing may be inappropriate include:
- Pipes with known, pre-existing leaks
- Weak joints or connections that show signs of loosening
- Pipes that are located in unstable ground or have suffered major settlement damage
- Blockages caused by root penetration that require mechanical removal
- Pipes with extreme limescale that need chemical treatment first
Professionals use camera inspection and experience to assess whether flushing is the right solution. If the risk is too great, alternative methods exist such as mechanical cleaning with spirals, chemical treatment or partial replacement of the damaged pipe section. Proper assessment before starting work protects both the pipe system and the property.
How do we help with flushing drain pipes?
We quickly connect you with qualified plumbers and specialized partners who perform professional pipe inspection and drain flushing. Our customer service is available 24/7, every day of the year. When you contact us, we assess the situation and send out the right professional with the necessary equipment to solve the problem safely and effectively.
For acute blockages, a technician can be on site in less than an hour to limit damage and restore the function of the drain. For scheduled maintenance assignments, we help you find a convenient time that fits your schedule. The professionals we work with are experienced with all types of pipe materials and use the right technique for your pipe system.
Benefits of contacting us:
- Available customer service 24/7 for both urgent and planned assignments
- Fast response time with on-site technician within one hour for urgent cases
- Professional assessment of pipe condition before flushing begins
- Experienced partners who use the right equipment and pressure level for your pipe material
- Camera inspection to identify problems and confirm the result
- Safe handling of both modern plastic pipes and older cast iron or concrete pipes
- Free call with customer service who can often provide tips for solving minor problems at home
Call 401 24 700 for emergencies or visit 24center.no for scheduled visits. We offer a wide range of services to cover all your drain maintenance needs. For more information on how we can help you, see our contact information where you will find all the ways to reach us. We make sure you get in touch with the right professional who will solve your drain problem quickly and professionally.
Vanlige spørsmål
How often should you flush your drain pipes as a preventative measure?
For private homes, preventive flushing is recommended every 3-5 years, depending on pipe age and usage patterns. Older pipes or households with a lot of grease waste should consider more frequent maintenance. Commercial properties with restaurants or commercial kitchens should flush annually to avoid grease buildup that leads to blockages.
How much does it cost to have the drain pipes flushed with a flushing truck?
The price typically varies between 3000-8000 NOK depending on the job size, pipe length and complexity. Camera inspection often comes with an additional 2000-4000 NOK. Urgent assignments outside normal working hours may have an additional charge, while planned maintenance assignments are often less expensive. Contact us for a specific price quote based on your situation.
Can I flush the drain pipes myself with a high-pressure cleaner from a hardware store?
It is strongly discouraged to use regular pressure washers on drains. These lack the proper equipment, nozzles, and pressure regulation necessary to avoid damage. Without a camera inspection, you may also be making existing problems worse without even knowing it. Professional plumbers have the specialized equipment and experience to do the job safely.
What signs indicate that my pipes need flushing?
Common signs include slow draining in multiple drains at once, gurgling sounds from drains, recurring odors from the drain, or water rising up in floor drains. If you experience several of these symptoms, it may indicate a buildup of grease, limescale, or other deposits that require professional flushing.
What happens if the flushing truck damages my pipes during the work?
Reputable plumbing companies have liability insurance that covers any damage caused by improper workmanship. If damage occurs, the professional must immediately inform you and document the situation. Therefore, it is important to use qualified professionals with insurance, such as our partners, rather than unknown operators without documented expertise.
Can a water jet remove roots that have penetrated the drain pipes?
A water jet can remove minor root intrusion and thin roots, but heavy root systems usually require mechanical removal with a root cutter first. After mechanical removal, water jetting can be used to clean out any remaining root debris. If the root problem is extensive, partial replacement of the pipe section may be necessary for a permanent solution.
Are there any preparations I need to make before the cleaning truck arrives?
Ensure free access to manhole covers, inspection points and any external drain openings. Inform the technician of known problems, pipe age and previous maintenance. Avoid using the drain just before flushing if possible, and notify others in the building that the water may be temporarily affected during the work.
