How to Start a Drain Cleaning Business — A Plumber’s Guide to Getting Into Jetting

HotJet 2 Business Package 1

Updated March 2026 | By HotJet USA

Starting a drain cleaning business is one of the fastest ways to build a profitable trade company. The startup costs are manageable, the demand is constant, and the margins on jetting work blow away what most plumbers make on standard service calls. If you’ve been thinking about going out on your own or adding drain cleaning to your existing plumbing business — here’s how to do it right.

Why Drain Cleaning Is a Smart Business Move

Every building with plumbing needs drain cleaning eventually. Homes, restaurants, schools, hospitals, apartment complexes, industrial facilities — the work never stops. And unlike new construction, drain cleaning is recession-proof. Pipes clog whether the economy is up or down.

The numbers tell the story. A single drain cleaning call can bring in $250-$500+ depending on the job. Hydro jetting jobs — especially grease line cleaning with a sewer jetter — routinely command $500-$1,500 per call. Add monthly maintenance contracts and you’ve got predictable recurring revenue that most plumbing companies dream about.

What Equipment Do You Actually Need?

Don’t overcomplicate this. Here’s the core equipment list to start a drain cleaning operation:

  1. A trailer mounted sewer jetter — This is your money-maker. The HotJet II at 10GPM/4,000 PSI handles 90% of residential and commercial jobs. Starting at $52,995.
  2. A sewer camera — You need to see what you’re cleaning. A 200-foot camera system lets you diagnose the problem, show the customer, and verify the line is clean when you’re done.
  3. A line locator — Find the pipe from above ground. Essential for locating problem areas and cleanout access points.
  4. Nozzles — At minimum, you need a Warthog rotating nozzle and a couple of standard rear-jet nozzles for different pipe sizes.
  5. A reliable truck — Something that can tow your trailer jetter. You don’t need a brand new rig to start.

Pro tip: HotJet USA’s Ultimate Drain Cleaning Business Package bundles the HotJet II, camera, locator, electric jetter, and training for $62,995 — everything you need in one purchase.

Get Trained Before You Start Cleaning

A jetter is a powerful machine. Operating one without proper training can damage pipes, flood a customer’s property, or injure someone. Don’t skip the training.

HotJet USA offers comprehensive jetter training classes that cover equipment operation, safety procedures, nozzle selection, and real-world job scenarios. You’ll leave with the confidence to handle any drain cleaning job that comes your way.

Training also sets you apart from competitors. When a property manager is deciding between two drain cleaning companies, the one with certified training wins every time. Check out 7 Startup Tips for Drain Cleaning Businesses for more on getting started the right way.

Build Your Customer Base Fast

You’ve got the equipment, you’ve got the training — now you need customers. Here’s where new drain cleaning businesses win or lose:

  • Target restaurants first — Every restaurant needs regular grease line cleaning. Walk in, introduce yourself, and offer a free inspection. One restaurant can turn into a monthly maintenance contract worth $500-$1,000/month.
  • Partner with plumbers who don’t jet — Most plumbing companies don’t own a jetter. Offer to be their jetting subcontractor. They make a referral fee, you get the job.
  • Property management companies — Hotels, apartment complexes, and universities have constant drain issues. One property management contract can keep you busy for weeks.
  • Get listed on Google — Set up your Google Business Profile immediately. Most people search “drain cleaning near me” when they have a problem. Be there when they do.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start a drain cleaning business?

A quality startup runs $50,000-$65,000 for equipment, with the biggest expense being your trailer mounted sewer jetter. Financing is available to spread the cost out. Many operators report paying off their equipment within the first year from jetting revenue alone.

Do I need a plumbing license to do drain cleaning?

Licensing requirements vary by state and municipality. Some states require a plumbing license, others have a separate drain cleaning license, and some don’t require one at all. Check with your local licensing board before you start. Either way, training and insurance are non-negotiable.

How quickly can I start making money?

Most operators start booking jobs within their first week of operation. The demand for drain cleaning and jetting services is consistent year-round. If you follow the marketing steps above and price your work competitively, you’ll be busy fast.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Call HotJet USA today at 1-800-624-8186 to talk with a jetter expert about launching your drain cleaning business. We’ll help you pick the right equipment, get you into a training class, and set you up with a marketing package to start landing jobs. Visit hotjetusa.com to see our full lineup and business packages.

HotJet USA is the manufacturer of trailer mounted sewer and drain line jetters. For over 25 years, we’ve specialized in hot and cold water hydro jetting equipment — trailer mounted, skid mounted, and truck mounted. We also offer comprehensive jetter training classes. Call today for expert advice!