Hidden underground is an intricate network of sewer lines and plumbing pipes that carry water and waste to and from our homes. These pipes are usually “out of sight out of mind” and we rarely give them any thought. Sewer problems are an issue that homeowners are rarely prepared for and fixing sewer lines can be disruptive and expensive. Fortunately, technological advances have revolutionized the way we are able to address potential plumbing issues. Among these breakthroughs is the sewer camera inspection.
The sewer camera inspection is an innovative solution that allows professionals to get a comprehensive look beneath the surface, identifying potential sewer line issues – without the guesswork and destructive digging. In this post, we’re going to take a closer look at the benefits of sewer camera inspection.
What is a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A sewer camera inspection is a modern plumbing technique that uses a small, waterproof video camera to assess the condition of your home’s sewer lines. A professional plumber inserts the camera, attached to a plumbing snake-type cable, into the main sewer line cleanout and maneuvers it through the pipes. The camera transmits a real-time view to a video monitor so the plumber can get a detailed view and identify any issues such as blockages, corrosion, or damage. Footage can also be recorded and reviewed if further analysis is needed.
When do I need a Sewer Camera Inspection?
Early detection of sewer issues is important for the health and safety of your household and can prevent expensive problems like sewer backups or property damage. You should consider a sewer camera inspection if you notice any of the following signs:
- Backed-up Sewage – If sewage is backing up into your sinks, toilet, or shower, it is important to address it immediately. Not only could you be dealing with a plumbing issue, but wastewater is often riddled with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or other toxic chemicals and exposure can lead to serious health hazards. Avoid contact with contaminated surfaces and call a plumber right away.
- Repeated Clogs or Drainage Issues – If you find yourself frequently dealing with clogs, slow drainage, or if your drains are making gurgling noises, this may indicate a larger issue with your sewer system.
- Foul Odors – Bad smells coming from your drains or yard may indicate a potential sewer line issue.
- Low Water Pressure – Low water pressure in your home can be a sign of a sewer line problem.
- Lush Spots of Grass – A lush, green patch of grass may be an indication of a sewer line leak underneath. Waste from a broken sewer line can act as an underground fertilizer, providing nutrients and extra water for patches of grass in your yard.
- Large Trees – If you have a tree in your yard, especially a large, older tree, a sewer camera inspection can help determine if tree roots are to blame for your sewer problems.
- Purchasing a New Home – Consider getting a sewer inspection before purchasing a new home to avoid inheriting any hidden issues.
- Renovation Plans – If you’re doing any landscaping or major home renovations, a sewer camera inspection can prevent any accidental damage to your sewer lines during construction.
Depending on the age and condition of your home, most professionals recommend getting a sewer camera inspection every 1-5 years to ensure your sewer system is in good working order.
What are the benefits of a Sewer Camera Inspection?
Sewer camera inspections offer many benefits to both homeowners and professional plumbers, including:
- Accurate Diagnosis – A sewer camera provides a clear, accurate view of your sewer lines, easily identifying issues like clogs, leaks, and corrosion in your plumbing system. This precision takes out any guesswork, allowing for targeted repairs.
- Non-Invasive – In the past, diagnosing sewer line issues meant extensive digging to access pipes, causing significant damage and disruption. A sewer camera doesn’t require digging, reducing mess and inconvenience.
- Time-Efficient – With high-quality video footage, technicians can quickly locate and identify sewer line issues, saving time and money on labor.
- Preventative Maintenance – Regular sewer camera inspections can identify potential problems before they become major issues or emergency situations. By identifying problems early, you can avoid costly repairs and help extend the life of your sewer system.
- Environmentally Friendly – Sewer camera inspections require less excavation and soil disruption than traditional methods of diagnosing sewer line problems.
- Helps Retrieve Lost Valuables – If you drop something down the drain, a sewer camera may help you recover it.
- Peace of Mind – Knowing the condition of your sewer system can provide peace of mind. You know you won’t have to worry about unexpected sewer emergencies causing chaos in your home.
A cracked or damaged sewer line can be a nightmare for any homeowner, which is why it’s so important to identify potential issues before they become major disasters. A sewer camera inspection is a valuable tool for maintaining a well-functioning sewer system. Contact us at Mr. Trenchless Sewer and Drain to learn more about our sewer services today!
