What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection Service?
A sewer camera inspection lets you see inside your underground pipes without digging anything up. Plumbers use special cameras to spot blockages, cracks, or other problems early. Fixing these things before they get worse? That’s how you save a bundle.How Sewer Cameras Work
A sewer camera inspection uses a waterproof, flexible cable with a tiny camera on the end. The plumber feeds it into your sewer line’s cleanout or a drain opening. As the camera snakes through the pipes, it beams live video to a monitor. This setup lets the plumber spot clogs, breaks, or roots inside the pipes. The camera’s tough enough for underground conditions. With this method, you hold off on costly digging until you know exactly where the problem is.Types of Sewer Camera Technology
There are a few main types of sewer camera tech out there:- Push Cameras: Handheld and best for short pipes. The plumber just pushes them along.
- Crawler Cameras: These are motorized and travel deep into long or big sewer lines.
- Pan-and-Tilt Cameras: The camera head rotates, giving a full look around the inside of the pipe.
Benefits of Professional Inspection
A pro sewer camera inspection helps you catch cracks, blockages, and root growth early. That means you can get targeted repairs instead of replacing whole sections of pipe. Experts can diagnose the problem accurately and help you avoid future backups or leaks. Many plumbers suggest these inspections every year or two, especially if your system’s getting old. At Splash Plumbing, we use the latest camera gear to show you exactly what’s going on in your sewer lines. That way, we fix your plumbing faster and with less hassle.Common Signs You Need a Sewer Camera Inspection
If you’re dealing with ongoing drain problems or weird smells around the house, it could mean something’s up with your sewer. Catching these early can spare you big repair bills and headaches.Recurring Drain Clogs
Drains that clog again and again? That’s not just annoying. Frequent clogs usually mean there’s a deeper blockage in your sewer line—maybe grease, debris, or tree roots. If you’ve got multiple drains clogging at once, that’s a bigger red flag. A sewer camera inspection will pinpoint exactly where the trouble is. Plumbers at Splash Plumbing can then clear it out fast and help keep it from coming back.Unpleasant Odors from Pipes
Bad smells drifting from your drains or yard are a classic sign of sewer trouble. These odors might mean sewage is leaking or gas is escaping from cracked pipes. That’s not just gross—it can mess with your air quality and health. You’ll probably notice these smells near toilets or floor drains. A camera inspection can find leaks or busted pipe sections so you can fix things before they get worse. Don’t shrug off foul smells—they’re a warning you shouldn’t ignore.Slow Drainage Issues
When sinks, tubs, or toilets are slow to drain, water isn’t moving like it should. If it’s happening in more than one spot, something’s probably blocking the main sewer line or the pipe is damaged. A sewer camera inspection uncovers buildup, cracks, or roots that could be slowing things down. Fixing these early keeps water flowing and helps you avoid backups or even flooding. If your drains are sluggish, it’s time for a look inside.Process of Sewer Camera Inspection
A sewer camera inspection shows exactly what’s happening inside your pipes. It helps you find blockages, cracks, or other damage fast. The process covers getting access, viewing live video, and delivering a report on what the plumber found.Preparation and Access
First, the plumber figures out the best place to get into the pipes—usually a sewer cleanout or manhole. This makes it simple to slide the camera in without causing extra damage. The tech clears away surface debris and checks for any tight spots or broken pipe sections that might stop the camera. If there’s a lot of buildup or roots, they might snake or hydro jet the line first. This prep work makes sure the camera can reach deep into your sewer and get clear images. It’s a crucial step for a thorough inspection.Real-Time Video Assessment
Once the camera’s inside, you and the plumber can watch the live video feed together. The flexible cable lets the camera wind through the pipe, lighting up the inside and showing everything in detail. The plumber looks for clogs, leaks, cracks, or roots. They’ll see exactly where the issue is and how bad it looks. This live view helps decide if a simple cleaning will do, or if repairs are needed. They record the footage, so you’ve got proof of what’s going on. That way, you’re not guessing—and you can plan repairs with confidence.Reporting Inspection Findings
After finishing up, the plumber puts together a report with video clips and photos. You’ll see exactly where the damage or blockage is and how serious it looks. Often, you’ll get a diagram or map of your sewer line with trouble spots marked. This makes it easier to picture the problem and know what needs fixing. Splash Plumbing’s team uses these reports to recommend the best repair or cleaning options. You get a straightforward explanation—no guesswork—so you can make smart choices about your sewer system.Key Issues Detected by Sewer Cameras
Sewer cameras catch hidden problems inside your pipes. They show you what’s wrong so you can fix it before things spiral. The usual suspects? Blockages, broken pipes, and roots sneaking in underground.Pipe Blockages
Blockages happen when something stops water or waste from moving right. Grease, food scraps, hair, or other debris can all cause trouble. When a clog forms, you might notice slow drains or hear gurgling in your toilets. A sewer camera shows you exactly where and what the blockage is. Plumbers can clear it out without digging or guessing. Getting rid of clogs early keeps your home safe from backups and water damage.Cracked or Broken Pipes
Pipes crack or break for all sorts of reasons—age, ground shifting, or heavy pressure. These cracks let sewage leak into the soil, sometimes causing nasty smells or soggy spots in your yard. Sewer cameras can spot even tiny cracks before they turn into big headaches. Finding them early means you can repair things quickly and avoid bigger messes or health risks. Plus, it saves you money down the line.Tree Root Intrusions
Tree roots love sewer pipes—they chase after the moisture. Roots can creep into small cracks or joints, causing blockages and damage. With a sewer camera inspection, plumbers see root intrusions clearly. They can remove the roots and repair any damage. Regular inspections help stop roots from causing long-term trouble. If you’re near Anaheim, CA and need a thorough sewer camera inspection, Splash Plumbing can help you find and fix these problems before they get out of hand.When to Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection
Knowing when to schedule a sewer camera inspection can spare you major plumbing disasters. Spotting issues early saves time, money, and a lot of stress. But when’s the right time? Well, a few key situations come to mind.Before Buying a Home
Thinking about buying a house? Do yourself a favor—get a sewer camera inspection. It reveals the condition of the sewer lines under the property. You’ll spot clogs, cracks, or root invasions that could lead to expensive repairs later. This kind of inspection can uncover hidden issues that a standard home inspection might miss. It helps you avoid nasty surprises after move-in and gives you leverage to negotiate repairs or pricing with the seller.During Major Plumbing Renovations
Planning big plumbing work? Get a sewer camera inspection first. You’ll know what’s inside your pipes—blockages, breaks, or old sections that need swapping out. Having this info guides your renovation plans and helps you avoid unexpected costs. Skipping this step could mean missing hidden damage that causes leaks or backups later.Routine Maintenance Recommendations
Even if nothing’s obviously wrong, a sewer camera inspection is a smart routine check. Experts suggest doing it every couple of years. It keeps your pipes clear and helps catch small problems before they grow. Regular inspections catch issues early. They help keep things flowing and prevent backups. Scheduling with a trusted company like Splash Plumbing gives you a clear picture of your sewer system’s health.Choosing a Reliable Sewer Camera Inspection Company
Picking the right company for your sewer camera inspection actually matters. You want folks with real skill, solid reviews, and clear promises about their work. Otherwise, you risk extra costs or bad info.Credentials and Certifications
Always check a company’s credentials. Look for licenses and certifications that show the team knows how to handle plumbing inspections safely and correctly. This means they meet state rules and industry standards. Ask if their techs have special training with sewer cameras. Well-trained pros spot problems early and give you clear reports. Splash Plumbing, for example, has experience and the right certifications—so you know you’re getting experts.Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Reading customer reviews gives you a sense of what to expect. Look for comments on professionalism, punctuality, and how clearly they explained things. Good reviews mean they probably deliver. Watch out for complaints about hidden fees or poor communication. Reliable companies are upfront about costs and keep you in the loop. You can usually find honest feedback online or by asking for references.Service Guarantees
Service guarantees protect you if things go sideways. A solid sewer camera inspection company stands behind their work and promises a thorough job. Sometimes that means re-inspections or repairs if they miss something. Make sure you get the details before starting. Companies that offer real guarantees are confident in their skills and want you satisfied. Splash Plumbing, for instance, focuses on customer care and backs up their services to keep your trust.Costs and Value of Sewer Camera Inspection Service
Understanding what affects the price—and the value—of sewer camera inspections helps you make smarter choices. Spotting problems early saves money, and picking the right service package for your needs just makes sense.Factors Affecting Price
A bunch of things can change how much you’ll pay for a sewer camera inspection. The length and condition of your pipes matter a lot. If you’ve got long or really old pipes, expect to pay more since the job just takes longer. Getting to the pipes can be a hassle, too. If your sewer line’s tough to reach, plumbers have to put in extra work, and that bumps up the cost. And if the camera finds blockages or damage, you might need extra services—naturally, that adds to the bill. Where you live and the pricing structure of the company can change the price as well. If you plan ahead and schedule a regular inspection, it’s usually cheaper than calling in a panic for an emergency.Long-Term Savings
A sewer camera inspection might feel like just another expense, but honestly, it can save you a headache (and a pile of money) down the line. Catching problems early—like tiny cracks or sneaky blockages—means you can fix them before they turn into disasters. No one wants a pipe collapse or a gross backflow situation. Routine inspections keep your plumbing in better shape and cut down on surprise repairs, weird water bills, and damage to other parts of your place. It’s one of those things that’s easy to skip, but you’ll thank yourself later.Comparing Service Packages
Plumbing companies usually have a few inspection packages to pick from. Some stick to the basics—the camera inspection and a quick summary. Others throw in detailed reports, repair suggestions, or even minor fixes. Basic packages cover just the essentials. If you want more, you can get follow-up visits, help with minor clogs, or a full diagnostic rundown. When you’re choosing, think about what you actually need right now, but don’t ignore what could pop up soon. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront gets you some peace of mind. Splash Plumbing, for example, can help you figure out what fits your budget and your pipes.Preventative Tips After Sewer Camera Inspections
Once you’ve had a sewer camera inspection, taking care of your pipes isn’t rocket science. Paying attention to maintenance, being smart about what you toss down the drain, and knowing when to check things again can save you time and cash.Regular Pipe Maintenance
Keeping your sewer lines clean is just smart. Only flush waste and toilet paper—seriously, that’s it. Grease, wipes, and random solids? They just cause headaches later. It’s a good idea to schedule routine cleanings before gunk turns into a real problem. Plumbers use things like hydro jetting or snaking to clear out buildup. Regular checks also help spot small cracks or roots sneaking in. If you stay on top of things every year or two (that’s what the pros say), your plumbing will run smoother and you’ll avoid those late-night emergencies.Proper Waste Disposal
What goes down your drain matters more than you’d think. Don’t pour grease or oil into your sink—collect it in a container and toss it in the trash instead. Flushing anything besides waste and toilet paper? Just don’t. Even “flushable” wipes, dental floss, or cotton balls can clog things up. A drain screen is a cheap fix that catches food and hair before they turn into pipe problems. It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference.Scheduling Follow-Up Services
After your camera inspection, don’t just forget about it. Most experts say to get another look every year or two, depending on how your pipes are holding up. If the inspection showed early signs of trouble, ask your plumber how often you should come back. Staying on schedule helps you dodge bigger problems. Splash Plumbing can help you set reminders and handle follow-ups, so your system stays in good shape and you’re not surprised by big repair bills down the road.Environmental Impact of Sewer Camera Inspections
Sewer camera inspections aren’t just good for your pipes—they’re better for the environment, too. When you spot cracks or blockages early, you stop sewage leaks before they mess up soil and water. These inspections use small cameras that snake through your pipes—no digging up lawns or tearing up the street. It’s cleaner, less wasteful, and doesn’t wreck your yard. By catching damage before it gets bad, you avoid big repairs that waste materials and energy. That’s less pollution and fewer resources down the drain (pun intended). You also save water by fixing leaks quickly. Water should stay in your pipes, not disappear underground. At Splash Plumbing, we use these inspections to protect your property and the planet. It’s eco-friendly, keeps your plumbing running, and just makes sense. Benefits of sewer camera inspections:- Spot problems without digging
- Lower the risk of sewage spills
- Save water by finding leaks early
- Cut down on repair waste and energy use
Frequently Asked Questions
Sewer camera inspections help you find leaks, cracks, and blockages inside your pipes. If you know what to expect and how much it costs, you’ll save time and maybe some money, too. Here are some common questions and answers:How much does it typically cost to have a sewer line camera inspection?
Most inspections cost between $100 and $400. The price depends on your property size and how tricky the inspection is. Some companies charge more if you’ve got a tough job or a really long sewer line.Where can I find sewer camera inspection services in my area?
You can find local plumbing companies that offer sewer camera inspections online or by asking around. Splash Plumbing covers Anaheim and nearby Orange County, and they’re known for reliable inspections.What should I expect during a plumbing camera inspection process?
Your plumber will send a small, waterproof camera into your sewer line through a cleanout or drain. You’ll see live video of the inside of your pipes on a monitor. It usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour—not too bad.Are there differences in cost between different providers, like local services versus Roto-Rooter?
Yep, local plumbers often cost less than the big national companies. The bigger guys might charge more but could offer quicker scheduling or extra perks. It’s smart to compare quotes before you decide.Is it possible to rent equipment for a DIY sewer camera inspection?
You can rent sewer cameras, but it’s not super common. The gear is pricey and tricky to use if you’re not experienced. Most folks get better results (and fewer headaches) by hiring a pro.What companies offer CCTV sewer inspection services nearby?
Plenty of plumbing companies around here offer CCTV sewer inspections. Splash Plumbing, for instance, does camera inspections and gives you a detailed report so you can actually see what’s going on in your sewer lines. Honestly, it’s worth asking your neighbors or just poking through some reviews online—sometimes the best recommendations come from people who’ve dealt with the same mess.Meet the Author
