Pipe Cameras for Sale: A Guide to Inspecting Your Pipes

Have you ever wondered what's going on inside your home or business's plumbing pipes? Pipe cameras, also called plumbing cameras or drain cameras, allow you to visually inspect the interior of pipes without damaging walls or floors. Read on to learn all about pipe cameras and how to choose one for sale.

What Are Pipe Cameras

Pipe cameras are small, waterproof cameras on cables that can be inserted into pipes to provide a live video feed or record images and video. They contain built-in lighting and industrial grade cameras that can capture clear views even in dark, wet environments.

Plumbers often use pipe cameras to diagnose issues like clogs, leaks, rust, breaks, and more. Homeowners can also benefit from having a plumbing camera to inspect their pipes and prevent problems before they happen.

Key Types of Pipe Cameras

There are a few main types of pipe cameras for different applications:

Drain cameras: Designed to fit in drain pipes from 1.5"-4" in diameter. Useful for inspecting sinks, tubs, showers, and other drains.
Sewer cameras: Can navigate 3"-8" sewer pipes. Help identify issues in main sewer lines.
Industrial cameras: Heavy duty cameras on long cables for large commercial pipes up to 48" across.
Micro inspection cameras: Extremely small cameras less than 0.5" in diameter. Can fit through pipes as small as 0.4" across.

A comparison video with some of the popular sewer cameras that I have

"A drain pipe camera allows identifying and addressing minor drain issues before they become major expensive problems."

Features to Look for When Buying

When shopping for a pipe camera, consider these key features:

Video resolution - At least 720p, with 1080p being ideal
Cable length - Longer cables (50 ft+) allow inspecting longer pipe runs
Durability - Cameras should be waterproof and made to withstand rough conditions
Recording options - Capture images, videos, or live stream to a smartphone or tablet
Portability - Compact cameras are easy to maneuver in tight spaces
LED lighting - Bright built-in lights illuminate dark pipes
Accessories - Extension cables, pipe crawlers, and locators help access tricky areas

Top Reasons to Use a Pipe Camera

Here are some of the top benefits and uses of pipe cameras:

Locate clogged areas or obstructions
Find roots that invaded sewer lines
Pinpoint leaks or water damage
Check condition of pipes before remodeling
Confirm repairs were done properly
Provide visual proof of issues for insurance claims
Avoid ripping up walls/floors to access pipes
Prevent damage from undetected problems

Professional vs DIY Pipe Cameras
You can hire a professional plumber with industrial-grade equipment to thoroughly inspect your pipes. However, DIY pipe cameras for home use are also available. These affordable cameras connect to smartphones and are easy to use for the average homeowner. Consider a professional for large, complex jobs and opt for a DIY camera for routine inspections.
Ready to Purchase a Pipe Camera?
Hopefully this overview has shown you how valuable pipe cameras can be for both plumbers and homeowners. When you're ready to buy, look for reputable brands that indicate video resolution, cable length, durability, and key features. With the right pipe camera, you'll gain invaluable visibility into the health of pipes on your property.