What Is a Skid Jetter—and When Do You Need One?
Not every job calls for a trailer rig.
Sometimes, you need jetting power that fits into tighter spaces, hauls easier,
or mounts directly to your truck bed or utility vehicle. That’s where a skid
jetter comes in. It’s compact, versatile, and built for the kind of work that
doesn’t need a full-sized setup—but still demands professional-grade pressure
and flow.
So, What Exactly Is a Skid Jetter?
A skid jetter is a self-contained jetting
system mounted on a steel skid frame. It’s usually powered by a
gas or diesel engine and includes everything you’d expect from a larger
unit—pump, hose reel, control panel, tank—but in a more portable
footprint. You can load it onto a flatbed, secure it in a van, or bolt it
to a trailer. The idea is mobility without losing capability.
Most units come with flow rates between 4
and 18 GPM, depending on the pump, and pressures that range from 2,000 to 4,000
PSI. That’s more than enough to clear standard residential and
commercial lines and plenty for breaking up grease, sludge, or
even small root intrusions.
Where It Works Best
Skid jetters are the go-to choice for
operators who need flexibility without sacrificing power. They’re ideal for:
●
Municipal and utility crews that
work in alleys, yards, or tight city streets.
●
Plumbers and drain contractors who
want to upgrade from a cart-mounted unit without investing in a full trailer.
●
Facilities teams that need to jet
lines on-site without hauling a trailer through a warehouse or plant.
Some setups even pair a skid jetter with
a vac pressure
washer, combining jetting and surface cleaning into a single,
space-efficient unit.
Things to Watch For
Buying a skid jetter isn’t only about
pressure and flow. You’ll also want to look at:
●
Tank capacity – Enough water for
on-site jobs, or a setup that feeds from a nearby supply.
●
Pump type and serviceability –
Belt-driven pumps are easier to maintain.
●
Frame and mounting points – You’ll
need solid tie-downs if it’s going in a truck bed.
●
Hose reel quality – Electric rewind
and guide arms save time and wear.
The Bottom Line
A skid jetter gives you pro-level jetting without hauling around more machines than you need. If you’re working in tight spaces, managing frequent small jobs, or just want a setup that moves with you, it’s a tool worth looking into. Rugged, efficient, and built for work—that’s what a good skid jetter delivers.