Got a clogged kitchen sink or gurgling toilet? Sure, you could try plunging and pouring store-bought drain cleaner until the problem kinda-sorta goes away. But take it from me that’s just a band aid fix. To really understand what’s going on with your drains, you need eyes inside the pipes.
As per the experts at The Relining Company, drain camera inspections lets plumbers peek inside your plumbing to identify and diagnose issues. Here’s why it’s one of the most useful tools for unclogging drains, preventing future clogs, and protecting your pipes.
Down the Drain Diagnostics
Drain cameras, also called pipe cameras or sewer cameras, are designed to slide down inside pipes and drain lines. They are equipped with powerful lights and high-resolution cameras that provide a crystal clear view inside the pipes.
Special cables attach the cameras to a monitor. As the tech feeds the camera down the line, the live video appears on screen so they can assess what’s happening.
Some key things drain cameras help identify:
- Clogs – see exactly what’s blocking the pipe, like grease, tree roots, collapsed sections, etc.
- Damaged areas – inspect cracks, leaks, corrosion, and other flaws needing repair.
- Flow issues – check for bottlenecks or problems that restrict proper drainage.
- Pipe layout – track the path of pipes and connections under the property.
Without a camera, plumbers are pretty much blind to what’s occuring inside your drains. A clog or drain issue could easily go misdiagnosed. But cameras give clear visibility so problems can be accurately identified and fixed.
Finding the Real Culprit
Ever had a drain backup or clog that keeps returning no matter how many times you snaking the pipe or use liquid drain cleaners? Frustrating, right?
Sometimes the true source of the problem is deeper than those quick fixes can reach. Tree roots, collapsed sections, and other major issues won’t be solved with simple snaking.
But drain cameras can travel far down the pipes to uncover and document the real culprit. Plumbers know exactly what they are dealing with and can recommend proper repairs like:
- Selective pipe replacement
- Trenchless pipe relining
- Hydrojetting to scour blockages
- Removing infiltrating roots
Camera inspections prevent guessing games that lead to repeated clogs coming back.
Early Detection of Pipe Flaws
Even if your drains seem to be flowing fine now, it pays to be proactive. Drain cameras can often spot flaws like cracks and corrosion before they turn into bigger problems like leaks or collapsed pipes.
Just like getting a physical to stay healthy, routine drain checkups help maintain your plumbing and avoid emergency repairs down the road. Cameras find issues in the early stages when they are less costly to fix.
Think of it like detecting termite damage during a home inspection versus waiting until your floor collapses. It’s all about staying ahead of the game.
Documenting Your Drains for Reference
Here’s a nifty bonus: drain camera videos provide a useful record of your plumbing system. The footage can be saved for future reference.
Plumbers can go back and review the recordings when tackling any future jobs. It helps refresh their memory on the layout of your pipes and any problem areas.
For DIYers, having a professional video inspection done gives you a helpful peek inside your plumbing before attempting any repairs yourself. You’ll understand the situation better.
Saved recordings are also useful when selling a home. Providing prospective buyers with documentation of the drain system’s condition puts their minds at ease.
Cost Savings in the Long Run
Now you might be thinking – isn’t sending a camera down my drain going to be expensive?
The truth is that a drain inspection will usually save money in the end by preventing repeated clogs and expensive emergency repairs.
While the upfront cost may be $100-300, compare that to the thousands you’ll spend if serious plumbing issues go undetected. Finding problems before they get out of hand just makes good financial sense.
In-home inspection is far more cost effective than waiting until you have to replace entire sections of damaged pipe.
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Conclusion
Trust us,we have learned the hard way how miserable clogged and faulty plumbing can make your life. Don’t live in limbo about what’s happening in your home’s pipelines.
Get the inside scoop directly from the drain’s mouth with a professional camera inspection. Diagnose issues accurately so you can stop them in their tracks. Protect your plumbing and your peace of mind.
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