Van Pack Jetter vs. Trailer Mounted Jetter: Which is Right for Your Business?

Hydro jet units are more than impressive machines designed to blast away thick debris. For many plumbing professionals, this equipment is a significant business investment that can elevate their daily operations and impress clients with their efficiency. That’s why selecting the perfect jetter is imperative for every operator.

When looking at jetters on the market, a common dilemma many professionals face is deciding between a van pack jetter or a trailer-mounted jetter. While both machines offer unparalleled power and versatility, there are significant differences to be aware of before making a final decision.

If you’re wondering how to select a jetter that will fulfill all your business goals, this article will guide you through the essential information before purchasing your unit. Let’s learn more about these machines, their features, and their common uses.

Van Pack Jetters: Getting Familiar with Their Features

Van packs offer the same strength and efficiency as the 4018 trailer jetter but in a much more compact package.

These jetters can be installed in a high-roof van, including models from Sprint and Transit. However, it is recommended that you confirm with US Jetting before purchasing a van to ensure the jetter can be accommodated.

Learn more about the specifications of these jetters here:

• Diesel Engine
• Run-Dry Pump
• 150-Gallon Water Tank
• Pivoting Power Pull-Out Hose Reel with 500’ x ½” Hose
• Mini Reel – Up to 200’ x ¼” Hose Capacity
• Electric Garden Hose Reel with 100’ x 5/8” Hose Capacity
• Can Jet Lines 2”-18”

Taking a Closer Look at Trailer-Mounted Jetters

There are numerous trailer jetters available for contractors to use. Some units are more versatile and can complete a wide range of general cleaning jobs, while others are engineered for specific types of sewer jetting.

Discover more about US Jetting’s trailer models here:

• 4018 Industry Leader
  • 4000 PSI, 18 GPM
  • Can jet lines 1”-18”
  • This is the most common trailer-mounted model that can be installed as a van pack.
• 4025 Max Versatility
  • 4000 PSI, 25 GPM
  • Can jet lines 1”-48”
  • Designed for general-purpose cleaning in a wide range of pipe sizes.
• 3040 Power Flushing
  • 3000 PSI, 40 GPM
  • Best for cleaning storm drains or large sewers.
  • Ideal for municipalities and contractors.
• 3030 Medium Flushing
  • 3000 PSI, 30 GPM
  • Used to clear storm drains and city sewers but can scale down to clean residential lines with a mini jet kit.
• 2065 Max Flushing
  • 2000 PSI, 65 GPM
  • Can jet lines up to 48”
  • It is ideal for culvert cleaning and clearing away thick debris from large sewer systems.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Jetter

So far, this article has covered the features of both van-mounted jetters and trailer-mounted jetters. The differences between the two models in terms of the type of jetter, add-on accessories, and hose lengths are critical to know when choosing a jetter for your business, but they aren’t the only factors to contemplate.

The following sections will highlight other key elements to explore before deciding on a jetter that aligns with your needs and core business operations. Use the following information, and assistance from a knowledgeable US Jetting team member, to find your ideal jetter.

Jetting Power

For hydro jetting units, power is measured in PSI (pressure per square inch), and the flow rate which is expressed in GPM (gallons per minute).

Knowing how much power you’ll need for your business primarily depends on the jobs you’ll perform regularly. For routine cleaning and unclogging residential drains, a PSI of 3,000-4,000 and a flow rate of 8-25 GPM is recommended.

However, a PSI of 2000-10,000 and a flow rate of 30-65 GPM might be necessary to service larger sewer systems that become clogged with thick debris.

Take a look at the jetting power of van packs and trailer jetters here:

Van Packs:

• Operates at levels of 3,000-4,000 PSI and 8-18 GPM

Trailer Jetters:

• Depending on the model, these units offer a wider range of jetting power.
• While most operators jet at 3,000-4,000 PSI, US Jetting can also make custom units that operate at 10,000 PSI or more.

Climate and Weather Conditions

Ask any hydro jet operator, and they will confirm that jetting is a year-round job. However, professionals need to take the correct steps to winterize their jetters in areas that see harsh winters. All US Jetting units are equipped with an anti-freeze system, but there are distinct differences between van packs and trailer-mounted jetters when using these in the winter.

Van Packs:

• The enclosed van offers protection when the jetter is used to clear ice away from pipes in winter.
• Vans also serve as a storage space for the jetter during cold months.

Trailer Jetters:

• Trailer jetters require an enclosed storage space, such as a garage, in cold temperatures to ensure the diesel fuel in the engine does not gel.

Traveling to Job Sites

One of the reasons why hydro jetting is so successful is because operators can bring these powerful machines directly to their clients. Whether it’s a homeowner’s address, a business, or a large industrial facility, hydro jetters can reach various locations.

Here’s how van packs and trailer jetters compare when it comes to transporting these units to clients:

Van Packs

• The streamlined design of these jetters makes them more agile on certain roads.
• If you often travel on narrow or winding roads, these units are easier to maneuver.

Trailer Jetters

• These units are bulkier and heavier; therefore, they cannot handle tight roadways well.
• Trailer jetters are easier to transport on paved roads and highways.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Now that we have thoroughly examined the features, advantages, and uses of van packs and trailer jetters, it’s time to make a final decision.

A van pack drain jetter is ideal for businesses that:

• Primarily service residential drains and small businesses.
• Typically perform routine pipe cleaning or clearing away blockages.
• Are located in areas with challenging transportation conditions, such as narrow or winding roads.
• Require a jetter that is sleek and compact.
• Are located in colder climates where it is essential to house the jetter in an enclosed space.

A trailer-mounted jetter is better suited for businesses that:

• Service a wide range of locations, including large facilities, municipal systems, and storm drains.
• Require a broader range of pressures and flow rates to complete jobs successfully.
• Have a designated indoor storage space for winter months.
• Travel to job sites on paved roads that are wide enough to accommodate a trailer.

If you still have questions or need further assistance choosing a jetter, be sure to contact US Jetting. Our team can help you customize your van or trailer jetter to meet your exact needs.

Looking for Trailer or Van Pack Jetters for Sale?

From unclogging residential drains to clearing out dirt and debris from large-scale systems, you can easily tackle any job using the right jetter.

At US Jetting, our passion is helping plumbing professionals optimize their business and services with powerful tools. Our engineers continuously improve our jetters based on customer feedback to ensure professionals are adequately equipped to handle any job that comes their way.

Whether you need a van pack, a trailer-mounted jetter, or a custom unit, US Jetting leads the industry in creating effective units and accessories.

Give us a call today to find the ideal jetter for your business.