Drain line inspection is the process of examining the full length of a drain pipe, or sewer line, to detect any existing or potential problems that could lead to plumbing issues in your home. It involves using various techniques to inspect the drain line from the interior and exterior of a home to look for any signs of deterioration or blockages. By carrying out a drain line inspection, homeowners can quickly identify any issues before they become more serious, and can act to prevent the problem from escalating.
Drain lines are buried underground and are susceptible to damage from high levels of moisture, pests and tree root intrusion. If left unchecked, these problems can quickly weaken the structural integrity of the drain line, potentially leading to costly repairs if not detected early on. Regular inspections help to ensure that any problems are identified quickly, preventing them from growing into much bigger issues.
How is a Drain Line Inspection Conducted?
A drain camera inspection involves the use of various methods to inspect the drain line from the interior and exterior of the home. For interior inspections, this typically involves using a specialized camera mounted onto a long, flexible line to inspect the full length of the pipe. This camera allows for a detailed view of the inside of the pipe, allowing for the detection of any issues, such as blockages and damage to the pipe itself.
Exterior inspections involve using instruments to detect any changes in the exterior of the pipe, such as changes to the ground. This can help detect problems such as collapsed sections of pipe, which may have been caused by the shifting of soil or ground around the pipe.
Do I Need a Drain Line Inspection?
While regular sewer line inspections are recommended, there are certain circumstances where a drain line inspection is especially necessary. Under the following circumstances, it is important to contact a plumber and have your drain lines inspected:
- If you are buying a property – Drain line inspections are an important part of a home buyer’s sole due diligence.
- If you have experienced persistent or difficult-to-solve plumbing issues – Drain line inspections can help identify the source of the problem.
- If your home is older – Drain and sewer lines installed in older homes may be more susceptible to deterioration or damage.
- If your home has experienced flooding – Flooding can cause considerable damage to drain lines. It is important to have the lines checked for structural integrity before they are put back to use.
It is best to contact a local plumber experienced in this area who has the right equipment and expertise.
Ultimately, regular drain camera inspections can help to identify any existing or potential issues that could lead to plumbing problems in your home. The quicker these issues are detected, the less damage and expense is likely to be incurred in repairing them. So, for any homeowner, having a drain camera inspection performed regularly is an important aspect of keeping their home in top working condition.
If you’re a homeowner and you would like to have a drain line inspection carried out, it is best to contact a local plumber with expertise in this area. The plumber will have the equipment and expertise to ensure that the inspection is carried out accurately, and can make recommendations on any necessary sewer line repairs.
By having regular drain camera inspections and addressing any problems quickly, you can help to ensure that your home’s plumbing remains in a safe and functioning condition.