Camera Sewer Inspections Reach Tough Places
Sewer problems can be tricky to diagnose. Unlike a leaky faucet or a clogged sink, sewer line issues aren’t always evident until the sewer stops draining or backs up sewage into sinks, tubs, and showers. That’s where a sewer camera inspection comes in.
By inserting a specialized, waterproof video camera snake with bright LED lights into your sewer line, plumbers can pinpoint blockages, cracks, and other problems without digging up your yard. Whether you’re a homeowner dealing with slow drains or a buyer checking out a potential property, a camera inspection of your sewer can save you time, money, and headaches.
What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A sewer camera inspection is the use of a diagnostic tool that assesses the condition of underground sewer pipes. Plumbers insert a flexible rod or snake with a high-resolution sewer inspection camera into the line, transmitting real-time footage to a video monitor on the surface. Through the monitor, they can determine the condition of your pipes and identify potential problems.
Overall, a camera inspection of your pipes is a great way to find the root of your sewer problems without making your yard a construction zone. Once you find the problem, you can fix it before it gets worse and you need a whole system replacement.
What Can a Sewer Camera Inspection Reveal?
A camera inspection of your sewer line provides a clear view of your pipes’ condition. Here are some of the most common types of sewer problems a sewer drain pipe camera can uncover:
Tree Root Intrusion
Tree roots naturally seek moisture, and sewer pipes provide the perfect environment. Over time, roots can penetrate pipe joints or tiny cracks and then grow and expand, leading to severe blockages or even pipe collapse. A camera inspection can identify root intrusion early, allowing for targeted removal before significant damage occurs.
Pipe Cracks, Corrosion, and Leaks
Pipes deteriorate over time due to aging, shifting soil, and external pressure. Older materials like clay and cast iron are especially prone to cracking and corrosion. A sewer camera inspection can reveal minor leaks and structural weaknesses before they become significant.
Sewer Line Blockages
Grease buildup, foreign objects, and sediment accumulation can restrict water flow, leading to slow drains or complete backups. A camera inspection identifies the exact location of a blockage so plumbers can remove it efficiently.
Bellied or Collapsed Pipes
Soil movement, heavy traffic, or ground settling can cause pipes to sag or collapse. These issues prevent proper drainage and often require immediate attention. With a camera inspection, plumbers can determine whether trenchless repair methods or complete pipe replacement are necessary.
Is a Sewer Camera Inspection Worth It?
Many homeowners wonder if a sewer camera inspection is worth the cost. The answer is a resounding yes! Here’s why:
- It prevents costly repairs by identifying issues before they escalate.
- It provides homebuyers with a clear picture of a property’s sewer condition before purchase.
- It provides documentation for insurance claims in case of major plumbing failures.
- It eliminates guesswork, allowing plumbers to perform targeted repairs instead of costly exploratory digging.
- It helps businesses make sure their plumbing systems are compliant with health and safety regulations.
How Much Does a Sewer Camera Inspection Cost?
Sewer line camera inspection costs vary based on several factors, so it’s hard to estimate. Three of the biggest cost factors include:
- Property location. Many small, rural plumbers may not have sewer inspection cameras because they are expensive and costly to maintain.
- Inspection length. Larger properties with long sewer lines will take more time to inspect and require larger camera units equipped with longer snakes, resulting in higher costs.
- Additional services. After a sewage camera inspection, you may opt to move forward with with cable cleaning, hydro jetting, or other repairs. If so, this will add to the overall cost.
When Should You Get a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A camera inspection of your sewer line isn’t warranted in all cases. But here are a few instances when scheduling one makes sense:
- Before buying a home. Standard inspections usually don’t cover a home’s sewer system, so a camera inspection can reveal hidden issues before you sign on the dotted line. This particularly important with older homes that have clay, concrete, or cast iron sewers that are prone to old age failure.
- If you experience frequent drain backups. Persistent clogs or slow drainage could indicate a deeper issue in the sewer that requires inspection. This usually becomes obvious if the plumber’s sewer cleaning machine has difficulty getting through the pipe.
- After major plumbing repairs. A follow-up inspection ensures that previous repairs were successful and no further issues remain.
If a sewer pipe video inspection reveals issues, the next step may be to schedule a more extensive sewer cleaning job to clear your sewer pipes and get them draining again. It may also indicate the need for spot repairs to the pipeline.
FAQs About Sewer Camera Inspections
How Does a Sewer Camera Inspection Work?
A plumber inserts a small, waterproof camera attached to a flexible rod into the sewer line. The camera is equipped with bright lights and transmits live footage to a monitor, allowing the plumber to assess the condition of the pipes and identify any blockages or damage.
Can a Sewer Camera Inspection Find Leaks?
Yes. While the camera itself doesn’t detect water leaks, it can identify cracks, holes, and joint separations that could be sources of leaks. Plumbers may use additional methods, such as smoke testing or hydrostatic pressure testing, if they suspect a leak.
Do Plumbers Recommend Sewer Camera Inspections for Older Homes?
Yes. Older homes often have outdated sewer lines made from materials prone to deterioration. A camera inspection can help homeowners understand the condition of their drainage system and take proactive steps to prevent major failures.
Determining if You May Need a Sewer Camera Inspection
Sewer cameras can detect hidden issues before they worsen into a major expense. In particular, they’re great for troubleshooting frequent drain issues or checking out a new home before you commit to the sale.
If you suspect hidden sewer or drain problems, scheduling an inspection could be your best decision. Roto-Rooter is available to help with 24/7 service, 365 days a year. Ready to get started? Schedule an appointment so one of our talented professionals can accurately diagnose your plumbing issues.