You may have heard of someone you know getting a plumbing camera inspection. This article takes a look at what a camera inspection is and how it can benefit you.

What is a Plumbing Camera?

A plumbing camera, also known as a sewer line camera, is a small, waterproof device attached to a long, flexible cable similar to a drain snake. The cable, often mounted on a reel, is designed to navigate the twists and turns of your plumbing system, allowing the camera to move through pipes and detect issues. As your plumber manually feeds the cable into the pipe, the camera captures a real-time video that is displayed on a CCTV monitor, providing a clear view of the pipe’s interior.

The cable’s reel allows them to control the length and direction of the camera as it advances through the pipe. High-quality plumbing cameras are equipped with LED lights to illuminate dark, narrow spaces, and some even have motorized wheels for better maneuverability.

Plumbing cameras are helpful when there is an immediate issue, but professionals can also use them to inspect your pipes to catch problems early before they turn into expensive emergency repairs. Additionally, a camera inspection can verify the success of pipe repairs after a plumber has completed the job.

Blockages and Clogs

Over time, clogs and debris can build up in your pipes, gradually leading to slow drainage or even complete blockages. This buildup can come from various sources, including dirt, wastewater residue, or grease that clings to the inner surface of your drain pipes. Common household materials like hair, soap scum, or food particles can also contribute to these clogs. In some cases, even objects, such as toys or jewelry, can be found lodged in your pipes.

A plumbing camera inspection can accurately pinpoint the source of the blockage, whether it’s a grease buildup in the kitchen sink or a tangle of hair in the bathroom drain. By seeing the problem in real time, the plumber can formulate a specific strategy for clearing the blockage. For instance, they may decide to use a drain snake to dislodge the obstruction, or in more severe cases, they may recommend replacing damaged pipe sections.

Sewer Lines

Sewer lines can experience a variety of issues over time, especially as materials age or are exposed to external factors like tree roots or ground movement. Common problems include blockages caused by grease, sludge buildup, or foreign objects. Tree root intrusion is also a frequent cause of damage, as roots can penetrate small cracks in older pipes, leading to larger breaks or blockages. Additionally, corrosion or wear on pipe materials can result in leaks or structural failures, which may lead to more extensive repair needs if not caught early.

It’s not uncommon for homeowners to be unaware of the types of sewer line pipes they have, as these are located underground and out of view. With a plumbing camera inspection, a plumber can easily identify the pipe materials and pinpoint specific issues related to them. This is especially helpful since certain methods, like hydrojetting, may not be suitable for all materials.

Hydrojetting is a highly effective method of cleaning sewer lines using a specialized hose that releases water at extremely high pressure, typically between 3,000 to 4,000 PSI. This intense force can break up stubborn clogs, such as grease, tree roots, and other debris, and clear out accumulated waste along the pipe walls. It’s especially useful for cleaning long stretches of sewer lines or for handling severe blockages in interior pipes. However, not all pipes can withstand this method. Older materials like clay or certain types of PVC can be too fragile and may crack under pressure, which is why camera inspections are critical to determining whether hydrojetting is safe for your specific plumbing.

Knowing the type of pipes you have is also essential if a replacement is needed. The camera allows a plumber to assess the various connections, fittings, and joints within the line, ensuring the most effective approach is taken. This detailed view not only helps plan repairs or replacements but also aids in avoiding potential issues with incompatible materials or improper installation techniques.

Burst Pipes

Burst pipes usually happen when water inside your pipes is exposed to freezing temperatures. As water freezes, it expands, placing immense pressure on the pipe walls. If cracks already compromise the pipe or blockages trap water in place, the expanding ice can force the pipe to rupture, leading to significant water damage.

A plumbing camera inspection proves invaluable in these situations. Rather than relying on guesswork, the plumber can insert the camera into your pipe system to precisely locate where the burst has occurred. This pinpoint accuracy allows for targeted repairs. It also helps identify other potential plumbing weak spots that could lead to future bursts, ensuring your plumber can comprehensively address the issue the first time around.

Benefits of Camera Inspection

The detailed information from camera inspection allows your plumber to address emergency plumbing issues more efficiently, saving time and reducing the likelihood of repeat problems. The plumber can also focus on the exact problem area without unnecessary exploratory work, saving you money on labor costs. In addition, the plumber can show you what the issue is on the camera’s monitor. This gives you a clearer understanding of the problem and the proposed solution.

Another major advantage of plumbing cameras is that many come equipped with a built-in location device. Using an above-ground receiver, your plumber can accurately pinpoint the camera’s position within the pipes. This allows them to determine exactly where a blockage, clog, or tree root intrusion is located. This technology provides a non-invasive way to diagnose plumbing issues, reducing the need to tear up floors or walls. Additionally, sewer line camera inspections help your plumber identify problems without excavating your lawn. This means less disruption and mess on your property.

Annual Plumbing Inspections

Experts recommend a yearly inspection of your plumbing system to catch minor issues before they become major problems. In the past, this process often involved a lot of guesswork. The advent of camera inspections changed the way plumbers assess the condition of a home’s pipes. Cameras help plumbers spot issues like leaks, clogs, or corrosion far more efficiently and accurately than before. This technological advance saves time, money, and hassle, making annual plumbing inspections much more thorough and effective.

Your Local Plumbing Experts

At F.F. Hitchcock Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we have been serving the residents of Cheshire, CT and the surrounding area for years. As a family-owned business, we focus on developing long-term relationships with our customers. We can help with all your plumbing needs, including camera inspections, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, and fixture upgrades.

Additionally, we install, repair, and maintain heating and cooling systems. As your one-stop home care provider, we can also help with all your electrical, roofing, and solar power needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our talented team members.

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