How to Unclog a Drain Using a Pressure Washer

Locate the drain access point closest to the clog. The access will be a capped pipe on or near your main sewer access. There may be several access points in your basement or crawl space, off the sewer line access in the yard or street, or under the building.

Unscrew the cap slowly from the access pipe, using the wrench. Pressure behind the cap may cause sewage overflow when the cap is removed.

Attach the sewer jetter hose to your pressure washer's wand. Attach the sewer jetter nozzle to the end of the hose, and begin feeding it slowly into the pipe until the hose stops at the clog.

Start the pressure washer and adjust to the lowest pressure listed in the manufacturer's instructions. Release the wand trigger and start cleaning the drain, slowly backing the hose out of the drain. Increase the pressure slowly as needed, being careful of splash-back and overflow.

Repeat the procedure one more time to ensure that the pipe is clean or until the drain is clear. Turn off the water flow. Remove the hose and nozzle from the drain line, being careful to avoid sewage spills.

Turn off the pressure washer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Replace the cap and tighten with a wrench. Clean the sewer jetter hose and nozzle with bleach or antibacterial soap.