A Homeowner’s Guide to Sewer Line Camera Inspections

Have you ever experienced a sewer line backup or clog in your home? If so, you know how frustrating and messy it can be to deal with. Luckily, there is a modern solution that can help identify the root cause of these issues quickly and efficiently: sewer line camera inspections.

In this article, we will delve into the process of sewer line camera inspections, how they work, and why they are an essential tool for maintaining the health of your plumbing system.

What Is a Sewer Line Camera Inspection?

During a sewer line camera inspection, a camera that is attached to a flexible rod is pushed into your pipes to allow the plumber to inspect the inside of your sewer system. The camera is inserted into the pipe through an access point such as a cleanout or toilet, allowing plumbers to visually inspect the condition of the pipe without having to dig up your yard or disrupt your property.

This non-invasive method provides real-time footage of the inside of the pipe, allowing plumbers to identify any blockages, leaks, cracks, or other issues that may be causing problems in your plumbing system.

The Process

During a sewer line camera inspection, a trained plumber will insert the camera into the pipe and slowly navigate it through the length of the sewer line. As the camera moves through the pipe, it transmits high-definition video footage back to a monitor above ground where the plumber can view and assess its condition.

This allows them to pinpoint exactly where any issues are located within the pipe and determine the best course of action for repairs or maintenance.

Benefits of Sewer Line Camera Inspections

There are several benefits to utilizing sewer line camera inspections for your plumbing system. Firstly, they provide accurate and detailed information about the condition of your pipes, allowing plumbers to make informed decisions about repairs or maintenance. This can save you time and money by helping you avoid unnecessary digging or guesswork.

Additionally, these inspections can help prevent future issues by identifying potential problems early on before they escalate into larger, more costly repairs.

What Plumbers Look for during Sewer Camera Inspections

During a sewer line camera inspection, plumbers look for issues that could be affecting the health and function of your plumbing system.

Some of the key problems they search for include the following:

• Blockages: Plumbers look for any obstructions in the sewer line, such as tree roots, buildup of grease, or foreign objects that may be causing backups or slow drainage.
• Cracks and Fractures: They inspect the pipe walls for any cracks, fractures, or breaks that could be leading to leaks or structural instability.
• Corrosion: Over time, pipes, especially those made of metal, can corrode and weaken, which can cause leaks and eventual pipe failure. Plumbers check for signs of corrosion that may require replacement or repair.
• Bellied Pipes: This occurs when a section of the pipe has sagged, creating a low spot where waste and debris can accumulate, potentially leading to blockages.
• Joint Issues: Plumbers check the connections between pipe sections for misalignments or separations that could lead to leaks or root intrusion.
• Root Intrusion: Tree and shrub roots can sometimes penetrate pipe joints or cracks, leading to blockages or damage. Identifying and addressing root intrusion early can prevent more significant issues down the line.

By carefully examining these aspects during a sewer line camera inspection, plumbers can accurately diagnose problems and recommend the best solutions to ensure your plumbing system remains in optimal condition.

When Should You Consider a Sewer Line Camera Inspection?

If you are experiencing regular sewer line backups, slow-draining drains, or foul odors coming from your drains, or have an older home with outdated plumbing systems, it may be time to consider a sewer line camera inspection. These signs could indicate underlying issues within your pipes that need to be addressed promptly.

Sewer line camera inspections are an invaluable tool for homeowners looking to maintain their plumbing systems and prevent costly repairs in the future. By providing detailed visual information about the condition of your pipes without invasive methods like digging or excavation, these inspections offer peace of mind and efficient solutions for resolving plumbing issues. Contact us today to learn more from our experts at Spartan Plumbing Inc.