Using a Sewer Pipe Camera for Video Inspection

A sewer pipe camera, also called a plumbing sewer camera or sewer video inspection camera, is a vital tool for examining the interior condition of underground sewage and drainage pipes. Professional plumbers routinely use these cameras to diagnose pipe problems and determine if repairs or replacement are needed.

Benefits of Using a Sewer Pipe Camera

Provides a detailed video record of the interior pipe condition.
Can be pushed long distances through pipes.
Reveals cracks, leaks, clogs, tree root intrusion and other issues.
Pinpoints exact location and severity of pipe defects.
Allows for targeted spot repairs instead of full replacement.
Less disruptive than excavating pipe sections.

Types of Sewer Cameras

There are two main types of sewer video inspection cameras:

Rigid or Push Cameras - These cameras sit on the end of a stiff rod that is pushed through the pipe. The camera is protected by a domed tip. Good for straight pipe runs.
Flexible or Pipe Crawlers - These use a flexible fiber optic cable that can snake through curves and bends. Ideal for inspecting lateral connections.

Many cameras provide pan, tilt and zoom functions for detailed inspections. Some models also include sondes for locating pipes underground.

Can We Find Our Wash Away Issue With A Sewer Camera And Ridgid Locator?

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

Using a Drain Camera for Inspection

Professional plumbers follow standard procedures to perform drain inspections:

Locate the cleanout or access point. Remove any covers.
Feed the push cable and camera into the opening and down the pipe.
Carefully push the camera through the pipe, looking for any defects or obstructions.
Inspect lateral connections by using a pipe crawler.
If needed, use the sonde locator to trace the camera's underground position.
Record video and take photos to document findings.

Analyzing and Diagnosing Sewer Pipe Problems

The sewer video inspection will reveal the type and extent of any pipe defects present. Common problems include:

Cracks or breaks - Can allow water infiltration and root intrusion.
Corrosion - Weakens and damages pipe walls over time.
Blockages - Caused by grease, tree roots, debris. Impede waste flow.
Bellies or sags - Causes stagnant water pools and sewage backups.
Misaligned joints - Allow groundwater infiltration and soil intrusion.

The video footage helps determine which pipe sections need repair or replacement. Isolated defects may need only spot repairs. More extensive damage may require full pipe replacements.

Sewer pipe cameras provide plumbers and homeowners with a valuable diagnostic tool. The video footage reveals pipe conditions and identifies necessary repairs. This allows for targeted, cost-effective solutions instead of expensive whole-line replacements. Regular sewer camera inspections help prevent catastrophic line failures.