When you turn on the faucet or flush the toilet, you probably don’t think about where the waste goes. As they say: out of sight, out of mind.
Unfortunately, things that are out of sight can also be hard to locate. As a result, we often don’t identify minor plumbing issues until they turn into major ones. The good news: technology has solved this problem!
We are, of course, talking about the benefits of using a sewer video inspection camera. Many plumbing companies use these cameras to inspect sewer systems. It’s an affordable way to troubleshoot all sorts of issues.
Not convinced sewer inspection cameras are all that? Here are seven key reasons why using these cameras makes a lot of sense!
1. Avoid Unnecessary Digging
In the past, the only way to examine a sewer line was by digging up your yard. Depending on the issue, the yard may have needed months to recover.
The main issue with this process is that it involves guessing. If your plumber didn’t find the cause of the obstruction, they’d need to dig again. Suddenly, a small hole in the yard would become a four-foot trench.
A video pipe inspection is a non-invasive alternative to digging. Your plumber will simply use a small camera to look at your pipes. The camera is connected to a flexible rod, which allows it to navigate the system quickly.
Another benefit of this method is that it won’t get you into legal trouble. Depending on your local zoning regulations, digging up your lawn may require a permit. With a video inspection, this isn’t necessary.
2. Identify Blockage Causes
Sewer systems under our homes tend to be massive. If there’s a blockage, you’ll usually need a camera to determine what and where it is.
In general, most sewer blockages happen as a result of accumulated debris. Some materials can remain inside the main sewer line for a long time without breaking down. This includes things such as:
- Flushable and non-flushable wipes
- Plastic wrappers
- Medications
- Grease
One of the main plumbing camera advantages is that it shows you which type of blockage you’re dealing with. As soon as your plumber sees that, they’ll know what they need to do to remove the blockage.
3. Recover Lost Valuables
We’ve all been there: you’re washing dishes, perhaps a bit absent-mindedly. Suddenly, your wedding ring slides off your finger and goes down the drain.
Or maybe it’s not a wedding ring! Maybe it’s one of your earrings or a valuable coin that you were playing with near the sink. Whatever the item in question is, it’s natural to assume that it’s now gone forever.
Fortunately, this isn’t the case. Thanks to modern high-def cameras, a sewer inspection can determine the exact location of your valuables. Your plumber should then have no trouble retrieving the items for you.
4. Assess Pipe Condition
Sewer blockages aren’t the only thing that can cause plumbing issues. You may also be dealing with things like:
- Leaks
- Corrosion
- Line Breaks
These issues are harder to detect but can create major issues over time. Corrosion, for example, is more common with certain types of materials, like cast iron. If left untreated, it may require you to replace your pipes.
Breaks in sewer lines can be even more dangerous. A line break may allow sewage to leak into your property, which is a health hazard. Lines can break for many reasons, including the soil shifting around them.
A simple sewer line inspection can help you identify the cause of any sewer issues you may have. Plus, having a visual reference of the current condition of your pipes can be a valuable piece of information in the future.
5. Detect Root Intrusion
Tree root intrusion is among the most common plumbing issues. It’s also one that can turn even a small leak into a disastrous problem.
The roots of trees in your yard are naturally attracted to moisture in sewer lines, which serves as a fertilizer. This makes roots grow around or even inside the lines. Once they’re in, they can cause severe clogs.
One way to solve this issue is to plant your trees strategically. If it’s too late for that, you’ll need to regularly inspect sewer lines for root intrusion. Using an inspection camera is the easiest way to notice if something’s wrong.
6. Prevent Costly Repairs
Many sewer inspection benefits rely on preventive maintenance. Even if your plumbing seems fine right now, there’s no guarantee it will stay that way.
Since a camera is non-invasive, it’s the perfect choice for regular inspections. These check-ups can help you identify vulnerabilities in your pipes and fix them on time. This can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Preventive inspections also allow you to identify your sewer pipe types and connections. If you ever need to replace your pipes, you’ll know which materials to get. Some common sewer pipe materials include:
- ABS (black thin-walled plastic)
- PVC (white thin-walled plastic)
- Cast iron (thick metal)
- Clay (ceramic)
7. Help Appraise a Property
If you’re looking to appraise a house, a sewer inspection should be part of it. This isn’t required by law, but it can still impact the house’s value.
In general, replacing plumbing doesn’t add a lot of value to a home. Not doing it on time, however, can certainly take some value away. Plumbing is something buyers expect to work before signing on the dotted line.
If you’re a seller, it’s best to invest in an underground sewer inspection before listing your property. This will eliminate unpleasant surprises for the buyer and prevent any issues during the home inspection.
These Are the Benefits of Using a Sewer Video Inspection Camera
As you can see, there are plenty of benefits of using a sewer video inspection camera. Of course, that’s only one part of the equation. The other part: hiring people who know how to use this tech to its best effect.
At Syracuse Drains, we use full-color HD sewer cameras that allow you to quickly pinpoint any issues. We’ll also provide you with a copy of the video for you to use as you see fit. Contact us now–we’re available 24/7!