A drain camera can find roots, clogs, and more.

Drain problems that a drain camera can find. Drain cameras are waterproof cameras attached to a flexible rod or cable that led through the sewer pipes to help detect any problems in them. The cameras have transmitters that record the location of the problem so that the plumber can know exactly where to go and how to fix it.

Using a drain camera inspection means that you will not have to dig up your whole yard to try and locate the cause of the problem. This will not only save you a lot of money but will also leave your yard intact.

If the problem with your sewer is on a visible part of the plumbing, you can easily DIY or hire a professional plumber to fix it at a low cost. However, this is not always the case. Here are some sewer problems that only a plumbing camera can find.

1. Drain Pipe Clogs

The most common drain problem that homeowners have to deal with is clogged pipes. It might seem easy just to fix the clog using a snake machine but this can sometimes punch a hole through the middle of the clog instead of removing it.

It’s better to learn what is causing the blockage and get rid of it completely to stop the situation from occurring again and gain. The sewer camera will help you see the clog, know its cause, and know how to fix it.

Your plumber can then use the right solution for the clogged pipe to help bring everything back to working order.

2. Tree Roots is another item that drain cameras can find

If you have trees around your home, then there is a high chance that you might have to deal with this kind of plumbing problem. Tree roots in drain lines are a common problem with pipes that are made out of cast iron, clay, or other porous materials.

Tree roots grow through cracks in the pipes in search of water and this in turn not only blocks your pipes but also causes them to burst. Fixing this problem can be very costly because of the damage to your surroundings and the work involved.

Cameras are flexible and can easily go through the pipes and help locate any roots. This means the plumber can be able to diagnose the location of the problem without having to dig up the lawn first.

3. Burst or Cracked Pipes

A camera inspection helps detect any cracks and defects in your pipes and you will be able to know if they are broken or cracked.

Broken and cracked pipes lead to leakages which can cause you to pay higher water bills especially if the crack is on the water pipes. Sewer leaks release dangerous untreated waste, which is not good for the safety of the environment either. A sewer camera will help you know exactly what you are dealing with and the repair cost estimate.

4. Collapsed Drain Pipes

Some blockages in sewer lines can at times be due to collapsed pipes. There’s no way without using the camera, your plumber will not be able to tell if the pipes are collapsed.

The cameras will help be able to tell if the pipe is collapsed or damaged, including the exact location of the collapse in the pipe.

5. Bellied/Sagging Drain Pipes

When the sewer drain pipes sag or drop without support in the ground, they become bellied. This then allows debris, and any other kind of waste to get caught up in the sag, and often, this results in repeated clogs. When joints between pipes become loose, they can leak waste from the pipes.

Sewer drain lines made from metals that rust and degrade create more issues and can be a major problem if not addressed immediately. The camera will allow the plumber to pinpoint the exact location of the belly to fix it.

6. Major Clogs

Years of constantly draining grease, hair, paper, and other waste that should otherwise go through the waste disposal or the trashcan down the sewer drain line can cause a build-up that can severely block the pipes.

Your pipes might be in perfect condition but when blocked with certain types of waste they will not function properly. The sewer camera service will locate the location of the blockage so the plumber can make the proper repairs.

If you ever suspect any of these issues, or if you have recurring clogs – give South End Plumbing a call.