What’s True and What’s Not About Sewer Camera Inspections

1. What’s True and What’s Not About Sewer Camera Inspections Sewer camera inspections are an increasingly popular method for diagnosing issues in plumbing systems. Using high-tech cameras, plumbing professionals can inspect the inside of sewer lines without the need for extensive digging. While these inspections offer several benefits, there are also common misconceptions about what they can and cannot do. True: Sewer Camera Inspections Help Identify Problems Accurately Sewer camera inspections are highly effective at pinpointing issues with great precision. By inserting a high-definition camera into the sewer line, plumbing professionals can capture real-time video footage of the pipe’s interior. This allows for the accurate detection of blockages, cracks, misalignments, tree root invasions, and signs of corrosion. The camera provides a direct view, allowing experts to identify problems without guesswork or unnecessary disruptions to the property. Not True: Sewer Camera Inspections Can Fix the Problem A common misconception is that sewer camera inspections can fix the problems they identify. While the camera helps pinpoint the exact location and nature of the issue, it is not capable of repairing or removing obstructions. For example, if tree roots are causing a blockage or a pipe is cracked, a camera inspection will reveal the problem, but additional work will be necessary to fix the issue.

2. True: Sewer Camera Inspections are Non-Invasive One of the main advantages of sewer camera inspections is that they are non-invasive. Traditionally, plumbing issues in the sewer line were diagnosed by digging up sections of the yard or driveway, which could be both time-consuming and disruptive. With a sewer camera, the technician can access the pipe through an existing clean-out or access point, minimizing disruption to the property. This makes the process faster, cleaner, and less invasive, which is especially beneficial for homeowners concerned about landscaping or property damage.

4. Not True: Camera Inspections Can Detect Leaks While sewer cameras are excellent at spotting blockages, cracks, and pipe misalignments, they are not always effective at detecting small leaks. A camera can reveal visible damage such as a hole or crack in the pipe, which may lead to a leak, but it cannot detect slow leaks or minor moisture seepage along a pipe that appears intact. True: Sewer Camera Inspections Can Help Plan Preventative Maintenance Another benefit of sewer camera inspections is their ability to assist with preventative maintenance. By regularly inspecting sewer lines, homeowners can spot early signs of damage, like the beginning of root intrusion or the early stages of corrosion. Early detection allows for timely repairs, preventing small problems from escalating into larger, more costly issues. Having a visual record of the pipe’s condition can also help plumbing professionals recommend the right maintenance schedule to keep the system in good working order. Not True: Camera Inspections Are the Only Solution for Plumbing Issues Sewer camera inspections are a great tool for diagnosing issues within the sewer system, but they do not solve all plumbing problems. For example, issues with the home’s water supply or internal plumbing cannot be detected through a sewer camera. Additionally, if a sewer line is completely blocked or heavily damaged, a camera inspection may not provide enough detail without further intervention. Sewer camera inspections are a powerful diagnostic tool, providing an accurate, non-invasive way to assess the condition of sewer lines. However, they have limitations. While they can identify problems and help plan for repairs, they do not fix issues. Understanding what sewer camera inspections can and cannot do helps homeowners make more informed decisions when it comes to their plumbing systems.