What Parts Are Most Likely to Freeze on a Sewer Jetter in Winter?

Cold weather can be brutal on sewer jetter trucks and trailers. Even a short freeze can lead to cracked components, leaks, and unexpected downtime — often right when winter service calls spike.

Understanding which jetter parts are most likely to freeze is the first step in preventing damage. Below, we break down the most vulnerable components, why they freeze, and how proactive inspection and replacement can save you time and money this winter.

Jetter Hoses

Jetter hoses are one of the most common cold-weather failure points. Any water left inside the hose can freeze, expand, and cause:

• Internal cracking
• Blistering or bulging
• Reduced flexibility and flow

Cold temperatures also make hoses stiffer and more brittle, increasing the chance of failure under pressure.

What to watch for:

• Stiff or kinked sections
• Visible cracks in the outer jacket
• Hoses that won’t fully drain

Replacing worn hoses before winter hits is often cheaper than dealing with a mid-job blowout. SewerShop stocks a wide range of high-pressure jetter hoses designed for demanding conditions.

Pump

 and Pump Seals

The jetter pump itself is highly susceptible to freeze damage. Trapped water inside the pump or seal chambers can lead to:

• Cracked pump housings
• Blown seals and O-rings
• Reduced pressure output

Pump seals are especially vulnerable and are among the most frequently replaced jetter parts during winter.

Prevention tip: Proper draining and circulating pump-safe antifreeze helps protect internal components. Keeping replacement seals on hand can significantly reduce downtime.

Fittings, Valves, and Quick Connects

Small components freeze faster than large tanks. Fittings and valves often hold residual water, making them prime targets for freeze damage.

Common issues include:

• Cracked brass or stainless fittings
• Leaking ball valves
• Frozen or stuck quick connects

Because these parts are inexpensive but critical, many jetter owners keep spares readily available. SewerShop’s extensive inventory makes it easy to replace damaged fittings quickly.

Hose Reels and Reel Plumbing

Hose reels and the plumbing inside them are frequently overlooked during winter prep. Water trapped in reel plumbing can freeze overnight, causing:

• Cracked internal lines
• Reduced hose movement
• Leaks that only appear once thawed

Always fully drain the hose reel system and ensure antifreeze reaches these components — not just the pump.

Filters and Strainers

Filters and strainers often retain water even after draining the main system. If frozen, they can crack or deform, restricting flow and damaging downstream components.

Winter best practice: Remove, drain, and inspect filters regularly. Keeping replacement filters on hand ensures you’re not sidelined by a small but essential part.

Pressure Gauges and Relief Valves

Pressure gauges and relief valves contain small internal passages that freeze easily. Damage here can lead to inaccurate readings, leaks, or unsafe pressure conditions.

If gauges fog up, leak, or fail to respond properly in cold weather, replacement is often the safest option.

Why Winter Failures Are Often Preventable

Stay Ahead of Winter With the Right Replacement Parts

From hoses and pump seals to fittings, valves, and filters, winter puts every part of a sewer jetter system to the test. Having fast access to reliable replacement parts is critical when downtime isn’t an option.

SewerShop supports jetter owners year-round with a large, in-stock inventory of parts designed to keep trucks and trailers running — even in harsh winter conditions.

Before freezing temperatures settle in, inspect your system carefully and make sure the parts most likely to fail are already within reach.

Need replacement parts for winter prep or cold-weather repairs? Explore SewerShop’s full inventory and keep your sewer jetter ready for whatever winter brings.