Tag Archives: sewer camera inspection

Apr '24

How Sewer Camera Inspections Help Prevent Costly Plumbing Problems

Plumbing problems can be a nightmare for homeowners. Not only do they cause inconvenience and disruption, but they can also result in costly repairs. One of the most effective ways to prevent these issues is through sewer camera inspections. With the help of advanced technology, these inspections allow professionals to thoroughly assess the condition of your sewer lines, identify potential problems, and take proactive measures to avoid expensive plumbing disasters.

Understanding Sewer Camera Inspections

Sewer camera inspections involve using a specialized camera system to inspect the interior of your sewer lines. The camera, attached to a flexible rod, is inserted into the sewer line through an access point. It travels through the pipes, capturing high-quality video footage of the entire system.

These inspections are typically carried out by professional plumbing companies who have the necessary equipment and expertise. The recorded video footage is then reviewed by the plumber, allowing them to identify any issues or abnormalities within the sewer line.

The Benefits of Sewer Camera Inspections

Early Detection of Problems:

Sewer camera inspections enable the early detection of potential plumbing issues before they escalate into major problems. The high resolution video footage provides a comprehensive view of the sewer line, allowing plumbers to identify signs of damage, blockages, corrosion, tree root intrusions, or other issues that may lead to sewer line backups or leaks. By catching these problems early on, homeowners can save themselves from expensive and extensive repairs down the line.

Accurate Diagnosis:

Traditional methods of diagnosing sewer line issues, such as excavation or guesswork, can be time-consuming, disruptive, and often inaccurate. Sewer camera inspections provide an accurate and detailed diagnosis of the problem. The video footage allows plumbers to pinpoint the exact location and nature of the issue, facilitating targeted repairs or replacements.

Cost-Effective Solution:

Investing in sewer camera inspections is a cost-effective solution in the long run. By identifying and addressing issues at an early stage, homeowners can avoid costly repairs that may arise due to neglect or delayed action. Additionally, these inspections help prevent emergency situations that usually result in higher expenses, such as extensive sewer line replacements or property damage caused by sewage backups.

Proactive Maintenance:

Sewer camera inspections offer homeowners the opportunity for proactive maintenance of their plumbing systems. Rather than waiting for a problem to occur, regular inspections can help identify potential issues and allow plumbers to take preventive measures. This may include clearing tree root intrusions, removing blockages, or applying protective coatings to prevent future corrosion. By staying ahead of problems, homeowners can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of their sewer lines.

a plumber performing a sewer camera inspection.

As the camera travels through the sewer line, it captures high-definition video footage of the interior. The plumber closely monitors the video feed, looking for any signs of damage, blockages, or abnormalities.

How Sewer Camera Inspections Work

During a sewer camera inspection, a professional plumber will follow a standard process to thoroughly examine your sewer lines:

Access Point: The plumber will locate the nearest access point to your sewer line, which is typically an existing cleanout or the main sewer line’s entrance.

Camera Insertion: The plumber will carefully insert the camera into the access point and guide it through the sewer line. The flexible rod allows the camera to navigate through twists, turns, and bends in the pipes.

Video Inspection: As the camera travels through the sewer line, it captures high-definition video footage of the interior. The plumber closely monitors the video feed, looking for any signs of damage, blockages, or abnormalities.

Problem Identification: If any issues are detected, the plumber will make note of their location, severity, and nature. This information helps in formulating the most appropriate solution.

Report and Recommendations: Once the inspection is complete, the plumber will provide you with a detailed report of their findings. They will highlight any identified problems and recommend the necessary repairs or maintenance required.

When Should You Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection?

Older Homes:

If you live in an older home with an aging plumbing system, scheduling regular sewer camera inspections is essential. Over time, pipes can deteriorate, corrode, or develop cracks, leading to potential leaks or blockages. By inspecting the sewer lines and addressing any issues promptly, you can avoid costly repairs and extensive damage.

Frequent Drain Clogs:

If you experience frequent drain clogs or backups, it could indicate a more significant underlying problem within your sewer line. A camera inspection can help identify the cause of these issues, whether it be tree root intrusion, pipe damage, or a blockage that requires professional attention.

Home Purchase:

If you are in the process of buying a new home, it is strongly recommended to schedule a sewer camera inspection as part of the home inspection process. This will give you peace of mind and ensure that the plumbing system is in good condition before making a substantial investment.

Remodeling or Renovation:

Before undertaking any major remodeling or renovation projects that involve your plumbing system, a sewer camera inspection can reveal any potential problems that may affect the project. It allows you to address these issues beforehand, saving you from unexpected delays and additional expenses.

Regular Maintenance:

Even if you have not encountered any specific plumbing issues, scheduling periodic sewer camera inspections is an excellent preventive measure. It helps you identify any early signs of damage, blockages, or tree root intrusions, allowing you to take proactive steps to maintain the health and functionality of your sewer lines.

Sewer camera inspections are a valuable tool in preventing costly plumbing problems. By proactively identifying issues within the sewer lines, homeowners can save themselves from potential headaches and expensive repairs. Regular inspections provide an accurate diagnosis, enable early intervention, and help maintain the overall health of the plumbing system. If you are a homeowner of an older property or simply looking to ensure the longevity of your sewer lines, scheduling a sewer camera inspection is a wise investment.

Jan '24

What Can Your Plumber Find With a Sewer Camera Inspection?

Discovering the Hidden Mysteries: What Can Your Plumber Find With a Sewer Camera Inspection?

As a homeowner, it is essential to understand the inner workings of your plumbing system, especially when it comes to the sewer lines. Over time, sewer pipes can deteriorate, leading to blockages, leaks, or even complete system failure. In the past, diagnosing and resolving these issues required extensive digging and guesswork. Fortunately, with advancements in technology, plumbers now have a powerful tool at their disposal: the sewer camera inspection.

The Power of Sewer Camera Inspections

Sewer camera inspections have revolutionized the way plumbers identify and address plumbing problems. This non-invasive technique involves inserting a waterproof, high-resolution camera into the sewer lines to get an up-close look at the interior of the pipes. By doing so, plumbers can accurately diagnose issues, make more informed decisions, and provide targeted solutions.

The benefits of sewer camera inspections are numerous, offering homeowners and plumbers alike a comprehensive understanding of their plumbing systems. Let’s delve into what your plumber can discover using this cutting-edge technology:

Blockages and Clogs

One of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face is blockages and clogs in their sewer lines. These obstructions can result from a variety of factors, such as tree roots infiltrating the pipes, accumulation of debris and sediment, or even foreign objects mistakenly flushed down the toilet.

With a sewer camera inspection, your plumber can pinpoint the exact location and nature of the blockage. By identifying the cause, they can determine the most effective method to clear the obstruction, whether it requires a hydro jetting service to remove built-up debris or removing tree roots that have intruded into the pipes.

Pipe Damage and Deterioration

Over time, sewer pipes can deteriorate due to age, material weaknesses, or external factors. Cracks, fractures, and collapse are common issues that can lead to sewer line leaks and disruptions in the overall plumbing system. Traditionally, detecting these problems involved invasive digging, which was time-consuming and expensive.

Sewer camera inspections eliminate the need for excavation by providing a visual assessment of the pipe’s condition. By navigating the camera through the sewer lines, your plumber can identify any signs of damage, pinpoint the specific areas affected, and develop a targeted plan for repair or replacement. This proactive approach saves homeowners money by addressing potential issues before they escalate into major problems.

Bellied or Sagging Pipes

Overtime, the ground surrounding your sewer pipes can shift or settle. This movement can cause sections of the pipeline to sink, known as bellied or sagging pipes. Bellied pipes create low points where debris and waste can accumulate, leading to recurring clogs and backups.

By employing a sewer camera inspection, your plumber can identify bellied or sagging pipes with precision. This knowledge allows them to develop a strategic plan to rectify the issue, whether it involves pipe repositioning or a sewer line replacement, ensuring optimal flow within the sewer system.

a sewer line with tree roots grown into them.

By removing the roots and implementing preventive measures, your plumber can help you avoid future complications.

Infiltration of Tree Roots

Tree roots are a natural enemy of sewer lines. Seeking out sources of moisture and nutrients, roots can infiltrate and grow within the pipes, causing blockages, pipe fractures, and even collapse. Identifying the presence of tree roots is crucial as it provides insight into the severity of the problem and determines the most appropriate action plan.

Sewer camera inspections enable your plumber to detect tree root intrusion accurately. The camera’s high-resolution imagery allows them to visualize the extent of the infiltration and design solutions tailored to address the root cause of the issue. By removing the roots and implementing preventive measures, your plumber can help you avoid future complications.

Construction and Installation Issues

During the construction or installation of a home’s plumbing system, errors can occur. Inadequate slope, misaligned pipes, or improper connections can all lead to compromised sewer lines. These issues can cause frequent backups, low water pressure, and other plumbing problems.

With a sewer camera inspection, your plumber can identify any construction or installation errors. By reviewing the footage captured by the camera, they can pinpoint the problematic areas and recommend corrective measures. This proactive approach ensures that your plumbing system functions optimally and prevents future headaches.

In a Nutshell

Investing in a sewer camera inspection is a wise decision for homeowners looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of their plumbing systems. It enables plumbers to diagnose issues more accurately, design targeted solutions, and ultimately save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

If you suspect any problems with your sewer lines or want to ensure the overall health of your plumbing system, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber who offers sewer camera inspection services. By doing so, you can rest assured that your plumbing system is in capable hands and that any issues will be resolved with precision and efficiency.

Jun '23

Sewer Scoping Inspections and Buying a Home: What You Need to Know

If you’re in the process of buying a home, there are a lot of things to consider. You want to ensure that the home you’re purchasing is in good condition and that there are no major issues that will end up costing you a fortune in repairs down the line. One area that you don’t want to overlook is the sewer system. That’s where sewer scoping inspections come in.

What is a Sewer Scope Inspection?

A sewer scope inspection is a process in which a specialized camera is inserted into the home’s plumbing system to inspect the condition of the sewer pipes. The camera is attached to a long, flexible cable and is inserted through a drain, typically the main sewer line cleanout.

The camera is able to provide a detailed view of the condition of the sewer pipes, including any obstructions, cracks, or other issues that could be present. The inspection will typically take about an hour to complete, and the results will be provided to you in a detailed report and/or can be recorded on a USB drive.

a sewer scoping inspection taking place.

A sewer scope inspection is a process in which a specialized camera is inserted into the home’s plumbing system to inspect the condition of the sewer pipes.

Why is a Sewer Scope Inspection Important?

There are a few reasons why a sewer scope inspection is important when buying a home. First, it allows you to identify any issues that might be present in the sewer pipes. If there are cracks, breaks, or obstructions, these can end up causing major issues down the line. By identifying these issues before you purchase the home, you can work with the seller to address them, or you can make an informed decision about whether to move forward with the purchase.

Second, if you do end up purchasing a home with sewer issues, you could be on the hook for costly repairs. Sewer repairs can be extremely expensive, and if you don’t catch these issues before you buy the home, you could be looking at a significant amount of unexpected costs.

How to Get a Sewer Scope Inspection

If you’re interested in getting a sewer scope inspection, you’ll need to contact a qualified local plumber or sewer inspection company. They will be able to schedule the inspection, perform the assessment, and provide you with a detailed report of their findings.

It’s important to note that not all homes will require a sewer scope inspection. If you’re purchasing a newly-constructed home, for example, the sewer pipes may still be in excellent condition and not require inspection. However, if you’re purchasing an older home, or a home that has a history of sewer issues, a sewer scope inspection is likely a good idea.

a sewer line camera inspection taking place.

The technician will be looking for various issues, such as cracks or breaks in the pipes, tree roots that may be growing into the pipes, and any other obstructions that may be preventing water from flowing freely through the system.

What to Expect During the Sewer Scope Inspection

During the inspection, a qualified technician will insert the camera into the home’s plumbing system. They will typically begin by inspecting the main sewer line, which is the largest and most important sewer pipe in the home. From there, they will inspect any other relevant pipes, such as those leading from bathrooms or sinks.

After the inspection is complete, the technician will provide you with a report that details their findings. The report will typically include information about the condition of the pipes, any issues that were identified, and recommendations for repair or replacement of the sewer line or further inspections if necessary.

What Happens If Issues Are Identified?

If the sewer scope inspection identifies issues with the home’s sewer system, you’ll want to work with the seller and your real estate agent to address them. Depending on the severity of the issues, it may be necessary to negotiate repairs or a reduction in the home’s sale price to cover the cost of repairs.

It’s important to keep in mind that not all issues with a sewer system will be deal breakers. However, it’s important to have all of the information available to you so that you can make an informed decision about the home purchase.

After the inspection is complete, the technician will provide you with a report that details their findings.

To Sum it Up

When buying a home, it’s important to have as much information as possible about the condition of the property. This includes the condition of the home’s sewer system. By getting a sewer scope inspection, you can identify any issues that might be present in the sewer pipes and make an informed decision about whether to move forward with the home purchase.

Remember, not all homes will require a sewer scope inspection, but if you’re purchasing an older home or a home with a history of sewer issues, it’s likely a good idea. Contact a qualified plumber or sewer inspection company to schedule an camera inspection of your sewer line and get the information you need to make an informed decision about the home purchase.

May '23

When a Sewer Camera Inspection Is Helpful in Chicago

Most of the time, if you have a plumbing issue in your home, you can be pretty certain that it’s a problem with the main sewer line. Knowing exactly where the issue lies requires an expert eye, and that’s where a sewer camera inspection can come in handy. It can help you determine where the problem is, identify what’s causing it, and then come up with a plan to fix it.

The first sign that you need a sewer camera inspection is if you’re dealing with slow drains. If water isn’t draining at its usual rate, it’s usually a sign that something isn’t right with your sewer pipes. Whether it’s a blockage or a crack, a sewer line camera inspection in Chicago can help you figure out what’s causing the problem so you can take steps to fix it.

Another common sign that you need a sewer camera inspection is if you detect a foul smell in your home or around your property. If there’s a blockage in your main sewer line, it can cause a buildup of nasty debris and organic matter. A sewer camera inspection can help you locate the blockage, allowing you to take the necessary steps to clear it.

What to Expect From a Sewer Camera Inspection

A sewer camera inspection is fairly straightforward. All it requires is a small camera attached to a flexible wire that is inserted through the most direct access point of the main sewer line. This camera is able to send live video feed straight back to the technician, allowing them to figure out what’s going on in your pipes and identify the source of the problem.

Once the inspection is complete, the plumber can provide a detailed report on what’s causing the issue. This report will include a map of the location of your main sewer line, details on any blockages or damage to your pipes, and an outline of the recommended solution.

a sewer line camera inspection being provided for a customer in chicago.

Having your sewer line inspected by a video camera will lead to a detailed understanding of the condition of your underground plumbing system.

The Benefits of a Sewer Camera Inspection in Chicago

A sewer camera inspection has a number of benefits. It’s much faster and cheaper than traditional excavation and repair methods, making it a great option for homeowners looking to save money. It’s also a non-destructive process, meaning that your garden or driveway won’t need to be dug up in order to repair the problem.

Another great benefit of a sewer camera inspection is that it can prevent further damage to your plumbing system. By identifying the source of the issue in the sewer line, it can stop it from getting worse and save you from more costly repairs down the line.

What to Do After a Sewer Camera Inspection

After your sewer camera inspection, it’s important to follow the suggestions made by the inspector. Depending on the severity of the problem and where it’s located, this could involve calling a professional plumber for sewer line repair work or simply making small changes to the way you use your plumbing fixtures.

It’s also important to remember that prevention is key when it comes to your plumbing and sewer system. Follow good plumbing practices such as regularly flushing out your drains with hot water and avoiding the disposal of objects like food waste and cooking oil down your sink. You should also check for tree roots around your sewer lines, as these can often cause blockages.

A sewer camera inspection can be a great tool for Chicago homeowners looking to troubleshoot their plumbing issues. It’s a quick and cost-effective way to figure out what’s going on in your pipes so you can take the necessary steps to repair them. Whether you’re dealing with slow drains or a nasty smell, a sewer camera inspection can help you get back on the right track.

Mar '22

Sewer Tree Root Removal Tips in Chicago

Tree roots pose one of the greatest threats to your home’s sewer lines. Every time you bury a pipe in your yard, you run the risk of tree roots interfering with it. Underground sewer lines carry nutrient-rich wastewater, and tree roots love nothing more than a nearby source of nutrition.

Tree roots and sewer pipes are a “match made-in-heaven”. However, it can cause you major plumbing problems when the two meet.

Tree roots spread out in search of available nutrients. If they find a spot in your yard where nutrients are easily accessible, they will try to make the most of that food supply. Your sewer pipes can serve as that accessible source of nutrition.

It happens only if sewer pipes leak. That is because the water inside sewer pipes is not accessible to plant roots if there is no leak. But the tiniest crack in a pipe will be exploited by plants. Once the root works its way into the break, it is only a matter of time before it fills the entire pipe.

Tree roots intrusion into sewer lines is one of the most common causes of sewer line damage. Early signs that your sewer line has tree roots are slow draining water and gurgling sounds coming from the toilet every time you flush.

The chances of this problem happening in your home increase with the age of the house. Older homes with old pipes prone to corrosion are more exposed to this problem, explains Keyrenter Premier Property Management. Tree roots intrusion in sewer pipes is also more likely if there are trees within 20 meters of your sewer lines.

Is there a way to remove tree roots if they find their way into your sewer lines? What can you do to prevent the problem? There are two aspects to dealing with the issue of tree root intrusion into sewer lines. You must get rid of the roots and repair the damage to your pipes.

This post deals with tree root removal only.

How to remove tree roots from your sewer line pipes

Below are three DIY options for removing tree roots from a sewer line. These options only work for removing small tree roots. If you try them and the problem does not go away, you will have to go for the fourth solution; getting a professional to solve the issue.

Use rock salt

Rock salt is not coarse sea salt or table salt. It is that stuff you throw on icy sidewalks. Rock salt helps remove tree roots because it draws the water from them. If you deprive them of moisture, tree roots become dehydrated and die. Rock salt can be bought online or at a local store; you need 2 pounds of it.

To do this, follow these steps;

Pour ½ a pound of rock salt into your toilet.
Flush the toilet as many times as necessary to push the salt into the lines.
Once the salt is gone, let it sit inside the pipes for at least 12 hours.
During this time, do not flush your toilets. It will give the salt enough time to do its work.

Note that rock salt will kill tree roots, the tree, and surrounding vegetation. Rock salt can also corrode and weaken pipes.

Use copper sulfate

Copper sulfate, also known as bluestone, will kill the tree roots inside your sewer line pipes. You can buy this cheap herbicide/algaecide at your local hardware or garden supply store. You only need a half cup of copper sulfate.

To use it, follow these steps;

Pour half a cup of copper sulfate into the toilet.
Flush until all the crystals get into the lines.
Open the windows in your home and leave the house for a few hours, taking your kids and pets with you.
Flush the toilet when you return.

Warning: copper sulfate is toxic to pets; it can kill them on contact. It is banned in certain places; before you use it, check the local legislation.

Use foaming root killers

Foaming root killers kill tree roots and keep them from growing back. This powder foams when it comes in contact with water. Tree roots hate the active agent in the powder – dichlobenil – and will stay away if they detect the substance.

To use the powder, pour it into your toilet and flush. It will locate the tree roots and kill them. It also leaves a residue that prevents future tree root intrusion. You can repeat this every month to avoid future problems with tree roots.

Cut the tree roots

This solution requires you to call a local plumber, and it works for both small and large tree roots. The plumber will first do a camera inspection of your sewer lines to know the exact location of the tree roots. Afterward, plumbers can get rid of the tree roots using a process known as hydro jetting service.

High Pressure Water Streaming Known as Hydro-Jetting is the Best Way to Cut Through Tree Root Infiltration in your Sewer Line.

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Have tree roots growing into your sewer line that you need removed in Chicagoland? We can help! Contact us at 773-599-9181 or by form below:

Nov '21

Signs You Need a Sewer Camera Inspection

A sewer camera inspection is one of the popular techniques used by professional plumbers to diagnose sewer backups, sewer pipe damage, and other kinds of sewer issues. What is a sewer camera inspection, how does it work and what are the signs that you need one?

What is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

A sewer camera inspection is a relatively low-cost method for checking your sewer line when there is a problem with it, but you are not sure what the issue is. It saves you the cost and inconvenience of digging trenches at various points on the ground above the sewer line to find the problem. A sewer camera inspection takes the guesswork out of diagnosing sewer issues.

The process works like this: a flexible cable with a camera attached to one end is inserted into the sewer pipe and fed through the line until it reaches a clog in the pipe. A radio transmitter inside the camera notes the location of the clog and how far it is below the surface. The plumber can then find and repair the affected pipe section with pinpoint precision.

Sewer line repair and sewer line replacement is a time-consuming and costly endeavor. Locating the damaged section of the pipe is a huge part of what makes the process so difficult. As Pinnacle Management explains, a sewer camera inspection helps homeowners avoid the cost of digging multiple trenches to troubleshoot a sewer line. With a sewer camera inspection, it is easy to find the problem without leaving any mess.

Signs That Your Home Needs a Sewer Camera Inspection

Slow Drains Across the Entire Home

If a shower drain or kitchen sink is not draining properly, it could be that something has fallen into the drain and blocked the pipe. However, if the problem is widespread across the entire home, you may be sure it is not being caused by a blockage in the drainpipes. It is most likely that the sewer line is blocked. This is a good reason to order a camera inspection for your sewer line.

Signs of Water Damage in the Basement

The sewer line for your home often connects to the rest of the home’s plumbing system at some point inside the basement. If the sewer line is blocked or damaged, you may find evidence of that in the form of water damage to the building’s foundation or basement.

Fluctuating Water Levels in the Toilet

The water in your toilet is designed to be at a certain volume. If the water level fluctuates, you have a problem with your sewer line. These changes in level are often easy to detect – the water may be very high one day and then fall really low the next.

Recurrent Backups and Clogs

If you find that you constantly having to deal with sewage backups, clogged or slow drains, you have a sewer problem. These are symptoms of a problem with the sewer line. A sewer camera inspection will help you detect the location of the blockage.

Sewage Collecting in the Yard

If there is an area of your yard where the ground is habitually waterlogged, it could be because wastewater is flowing from the sewer line into the ground. If the swampy area is accompanied by the smell of raw sewage, you should think about a sewer camera inspection.

If the air around your home is loaded with the smell of sewage, it could be coming from your sewer lines.

Foul Odors Around the Property

If the air around your home is loaded with the smell of sewage, it could be coming from your sewer lines. This problem is usually worse at certain times of the day when vapor from the leaking wastewater has accumulated on the property.

Uncharacteristically Green Grass

Grass that is unusually green in one part of your lawn is a sign that a damaged sewer line is leaking. The sewage leaking into the ground provides nutrient-rich water that sustains the plants. If you notice this in your yard, you should have the sewer line inspected.

Past Problems with Tree Roots

If you have had past problems with tree roots on your property, you need a sewer camera inspection to ensure tree roots are not intruding into the sewer line. Past problems, like tree roots puncturing underground water pipes or disturbing the driveway, means there is an extensive network of tree roots inside the ground. This could be a problem.

A Spike in Water Bills

A broken sewer line may also affect your water bill. An unexplainable increase in your utility bills should be investigated. One thing you should do to determine the cause of the problem is to order a sewer camera inspection.

If You Just Bought a New House

A sewer camera inspection is a must if you have just bought a new house, or you are about to buy a new house. The inspection will show you where you stand as far as the health of your sewer line is concerned. You can then decide if you need to replace the sewer line or not.