What is a Sewer Camera And How Does It Help?

One of the most unmistaken odors homeowners can experience is that of a sewer issue.

Sewer problems are not only unpleasant, but they can be very frustrating especially when you cannot see what is causing the problem. You can end up spending a ton of money trying to locate the problem and still come up short, perhaps even paying for a non-existent problem.

Properly identifying the cause of any sewer problem is the first step towards fixing it and that is where a sewer camera comes in. With this camera, your professional plumber can see exactly what is causing the problem and use the right method to fix it.

What is a Sewer Camera?

A sewer camera is a waterproof camera attached to a flexible rod or cable that is led through the sewer pipes to help detect any problems that may be in them. The cameras have radio transmitters that record the location of the problem so that the plumber can know exactly where to go and how to fix it.

Using a sewer camera inspection means that you will not have to dig up your yard to try and locate the cause of the problem. Not only will it save you a lot of money but it will also remove the added headache of destroying your yard. 

If the problem with your sewer is on a visible part of the plumbing, you can easily DIY or hire a plumber to fix it at low cost. Unfortunately, this is not always the outcome. Here are a few common sewer problems that can only be detected by using a plumbing camera.

Broken or Cracked Pipes

Broken and cracked pipes lead to leakages which can cause you to pay higher water bills especially if the crack is on the water pipes. Sewer leaks release untreated waste, which is also not good for the environment.  A camera inspection can help to detect any defects on your pipes. A sewer camera will help to identify exactly what you are dealing with and how much it will cost to repair. 

Clogs in Pipes

One of the most common sewer problems that homeowners have to deal with is clogged pipes. It might seem easy just to fix the clog using a snake machine but this can sometimes punch a hole through the clog instead of actually removing it.

It’s always better to learn what is causing the blockage, remove it completely and hopefully stop the situation from occurring again. The sewer camera will help you see the clog, know its cause, and how to fix it. Your plumber can then use only the right solution for the clogged pipe to help preserve your pipes.

Pesky Tree Roots

If you have tress in your home, then there are high chances that you might have to deal with this kind of plumbing problem. Tree root infiltration is common with pipes that are made out of cast iron, clay, or other porous materials.

Tree roots are tenacious and dig through cracks in the pipes in search of water. This not only blocks your pipes put also damages them. Fixing this problem can be very costly because of the damages and work involved. Cameras are flexible and can easily go through the pipes and help locate any infiltration by the tree roots. This means the plumber can be able to diagnose the problem without having to dig up the lawn first.

Collapsed Sewer Pipes

Blockages in sewer lines can at times be due to collapsed pipes. Without using the camera, your plumber will not be able to tell if the pipes are collapsed or damaged, including the exact location of the collapse.

Sagging Pipes

When the sewer pipes sag or descend, they become bellied. This then allows dirt, debris, and any other kind of wastes to get caught up in the sag and often, this results in repeat blockages. When seals that are between the pipes become loose, they can leak waste from the pipes.

Sewer lines made from metals that corrode and degrade create more issues and can be a big problem if not addressed immediately. The camera will allow the plumber to pinpoint the exact location of the sag to fix it.

Major Blockages

Major blockages are caused by years of constantly sending grease, hair, paper, and other waste that should otherwise go through the waste disposal or the trashcan, down the sewer drain. Over time, it can cause a build-up that can severely block the pipes.
Your pipes might be in perfect condition but when blocked with such waste they will not function properly. A sewer camera service will help locate the blockage so your plumber can repair it. 

Detect Rust in Pipes

Sewer pipes made from metal are prone to rusting with over time. When the metal excessively corrodes, it becomes weak and this will cause the pipes to crack.

Corrosion, if not dealt with can spread and therefore, it is important to replace all corroded pipes as soon as you detect them. If your drains are backing up, or you have noticed some puddles of water or sewage in your yard, then you might be having a problem with your sewer drainage. The moment you detect these telltale signs; ensure you call a plumber.

Plumbing problems are almost impossible to live with, and you will only have peace of mind once you can detect it and fix it as soon as possible. The use of sewer cameras will help you do just that!

Ensure You Enlist a Plumber Who Can Utilize a Sewer Camera in Their Service

A sewer camera inspection is accurate and takes the guess work out of diagnosing a plumbing problem. The end result saving homeowners money, time and aggravation. Using it will save you from having to pay for misdiagnosed plumbing issues.

If you suspect you have a sewer problem in your home, it’s wise to act fast to avoid any further damages. Check out our website, and take a look at our services page for excellent plumbing services.

Call us for a thorough inspection and repair of your plumbing system.