Plumbing cameras have revolutionized how we inspect pipes and sewer lines in homes and buildings. These specialized devices consist of high-resolution cameras attached to flexible tubes or rods that can navigate through pipes to identify problems.
This allows for non-invasive inspection of entire plumbing systems, helping to pinpoint the exact location and nature of blockages or damage without destructive digging.
Modern plumbing cameras include features like zoom capabilities and adjustable LED lighting to ensure we can thoroughly examine every section of piping. This saves time and money by eliminating guesswork in plumbing diagnosis.
Instead of making educated guesses about blockage locations, in this article we'll break down how we can see exactly what's happening inside pipes with plumbing cameras and why you need them.
In this article you'll learn:
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Plumbing cameras have revolutionized how we diagnose pipe problems. These specialized tools allow us to see inside pipes without destructive digging, making troubleshooting faster and more accurate.
Understand more about how this device can make your life easier below.
Camera inspections provide visual confirmation of pipe issues that would otherwise require guesswork. This means we can identify the exact location and severity of problems such as cracks, blockages, tree root intrusions, and collapsed pipes.
This technology saves significant time and money by eliminating unnecessary digging. Instead of tearing up yards or breaking through walls, we can pinpoint the exact location needing repair.
We provide video evidence of your plumbing's condition so you can make informed decisions about necessary repairs. Camera inspections can also identify potential issues before they become emergencies.
Push cameras are the most common type, featuring a flexible cable with a camera head that is pushed through pipes. They typically include bright LED lights and are ideal for 2-4-inch residential pipes.
Alternatively, self-propelled cameras have motorized treads that move independently through pipes. These are perfect for larger commercial lines or longer runs where pushing a cable becomes difficult.
Some advanced systems include locator transmitters that emit signals. We can detect these signals from above ground to mark exact pipe locations and depths before digging.
HD cameras with recording capabilities also allow us to document and share findings with homeowners. These recordings serve as valuable references for future work and can help track pipe conditions over time.
According to VMR, the sewer inspection camera system market in the United States was valued at USD 270 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 450 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2026 to 2033.
Camera inspections have revolutionized how plumbers diagnose sewer line problems.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the most common causes of sanitary sewer overflows include grease buildup, tree root infiltration, and improper disposal of items like wipes or hygiene products.
Understand below how this technology allows us to see exactly what's happening inside pipes without digging up yards or breaking through walls.
Before we begin a camera inspection, several important steps must be taken. First, we locate the main sewer line access point, typically through a clean-out opening.
This provides the entry point for our camera equipment. We then prepare the line by performing a basic cleaning. This might involve using an auger or hydro-jetting to clear obvious debris that could block the camera's path or obscure visibility.
Our technicians will also:
The inspection begins by inserting a flexible rod with a high-definition waterproof camera at its tip into the sewer line. This camera is attached to a transmitter that helps us track its location underground. As we feed the camera through the pipes, we watch the live video feed on a monitor.
The camera provides clear images of the pipe interior, allowing us to see:
We can pause the camera at problem areas and mark their exact locations using the transmitter. This precision helps us create an accurate map of issues within the system.
After completing the camera inspection, we analyze the recorded footage in detail. This analysis helps us develop a comprehensive understanding of your sewer system's condition.
We then create a detailed report that includes:
The footage allows us to prioritize repairs based on severity. We can differentiate between minor issues that need monitoring and major problems requiring immediate attention.
We then discuss our findings with you, showing the actual video evidence so you can see exactly what we've discovered. This transparency helps you understand our repair recommendations and make informed decisions about your plumbing system.
Plumbing cameras allow us to see exactly what's happening inside your plumbing system without invasive digging or guesswork.
Thats only one of the multiple types of drain inspections.
Blockages are one of the most common issues we detect during camera inspections, that's also why you should always make drain inspections.
These obstructions can range from built-up grease and soap residue to foreign objects that shouldn't be in your pipes. When water drains slowly or backs up completely, a camera inspection can pinpoint exactly where the clog is located.
Some common blockages we find include:
By identifying the exact location and nature of a blockage, we can determine the most effective removal method. This might include hydrojetting for stubborn grease, mechanical cleaning for solid objects, or enzymatic treatments for organic material.
Camera inspections excel at revealing pipe deterioration that might otherwise go unnoticed until a major failure occurs.
Types of pipe damage visible on camera include:
Early detection of these issues can prevent water damage to your property and save thousands in emergency repairs. When we spot pipe damage, we can assess its severity and recommend appropriate repairs before a small crack becomes a flooded basement.
Tree roots are naturally attracted to the moisture and nutrients in sewer lines. With camera technology, we can see root intrusions that would otherwise remain hidden underground. Root intrusions are particularly troublesome because they continue to grow and expand over time.
What starts as a small entry point can develop into an impending emergency as roots crack and break pipes.
Root problems typically appear as:
Cameras help determine the extent of root infiltration and guide our approach to removal. For minor intrusions, we might use cutting tools or chemical treatments. More severe cases may require pipe replacement, especially if roots have caused structural damage to the line.
Once camera inspections reveal plumbing issues, effective solutions, and preventive measures can save homeowners thousands in repair costs. Modern techniques allow for targeted repairs that minimize disruption to property while extending the system's lifespan.
Trenchless repairs have improved how we address underground pipe problems without extensive excavation. Pipe-lining uses a flexible tube coated with resin that hardens inside damaged pipes, creating a new pipe within the old one, effectively sealing cracks, and holes, and preventing root intrusion.
Pipe bursting is another effective technique where we pull a new pipe through the old one while simultaneously breaking apart the damaged pipe. This works well for completely collapsed lines that can't be relined.
Both methods typically cost less than traditional excavation, which requires extensive labor and landscape restoration. We often see 30-50% cost savings with trenchless methods. Most city sewer departments now approve these techniques as they maintain proper flow without disrupting public infrastructure.
Scheduling routine camera inspections every 1-2 years prevents major emergencies before they occur. During these maintenance visits, we can identify minor issues like small tree root intrusions or early-stage scale buildup.
Having an plumbing membership ensures that you are always safe and avoids costly surprises with your plumbing.
The EPA also highlights the importance of regular maintenance, such as camera inspections and pipeline cleaning, as critical to preventing blockages and ensuring efficient operation of sewer systems.
Our maintenance services typically include:
Using powerful pressure washers and specialized equipment, we can restore pipes to near-original condition without harsh chemicals.
Regular maintenance costs are minimal compared to emergency repair services, especially when dealing with basement flooding or replacement part expenses for water-damaged appliances.
Plumbing camera inspections have transformed the way we understand, maintain, and repair our pipe systems. By offering real-time visuals of what’s happening inside your plumbing infrastructure, they eliminate the guesswork and disruption of traditional diagnostics.
Combined with modern trenchless repair methods and proactive maintenance strategies, camera inspections help protect your property, extend the life of your plumbing, and significantly reduce repair costs over time.
If you’re experiencing slow drains, recurring clogs, or simply want peace of mind about the condition of your pipes, a professional camera inspection is a smart first step.
Contact our team today to schedule your inspection and ensure your plumbing system is running at its best, above and below ground.
