
Your home’s sewer system works hard every single day. It carries away wastewater and keeps your property clean and safe. But what happens when something goes wrong deep underground? That’s where sewer camera inspections come in to save the day.
What Are Sewer Camera Inspections?
A sewer camera inspection uses a special waterproof camera attached to a flexible cable. A trained technician feeds this camera through your pipes to see what’s happening inside. The camera sends live video to a monitor above ground. This lets the technician spot problems without any digging.
This technology has changed the plumbing industry. Before cameras, finding pipe problems meant guessing and digging in multiple spots. Now, we can see exactly what’s wrong and where it’s located.
Common Problems Found During Drain Inspections
Sewer cameras reveal many hidden issues. Tree roots are one of the biggest culprits. They grow into pipes through tiny cracks, searching for water. Over time, these roots create major blockages.
Grease buildup is another common problem. Kitchen waste sticks to pipe walls and builds up over years. This narrows the pipe opening and slows water flow.
Cameras also find broken or collapsed pipes. Age, ground shifting, or heavy traffic above can damage underground lines. Some older pipes simply crack and crumble after decades of use.
Other issues include:
- Bellied pipes that sag and collect water
- Offset joints where pipe sections separated
- Corrosion that eats through metal pipes
- Foreign objects stuck in the line
How Early Detection Saves You Money
Finding problems early makes a huge difference to your wallet. A small crack caught during a routine sewer line inspection might need a simple trenchless sewer repair. Wait too long, and that crack becomes a complete collapse requiring full sewer replacement.
Think of it like car maintenance. Changing your oil regularly costs much less than replacing a seized engine. The same logic applies to sewer maintenance. Regular checkups catch small issues before they turn into expensive emergencies.
Many homeowners spend thousands on emergency repairs that could have been prevented. Water damage from broken pipes is expensive. Foundation problems from leaking sewers also cost a lot. Additionally, damage to landscapes from emergency digging can be costly.
The Benefits of Trenchless Technology
Modern sewer inspection technology pairs perfectly with trenchless sewer line replacement methods. Once the camera identifies a problem, technicians can often fix it without tearing up your yard.
Trenchless methods use existing access points. Workers can repair or replace pipes by pulling new material through the old line. This saves your landscaping, driveway, and sidewalks.
Traditional dig and replace projects can take days or weeks. Trenchless sewer line repairs often finish in a single day. You save time and money while protecting your property’s appearance.
When Should You Schedule a Sewer Inspection?
You don’t need to wait for a disaster to get a camera inspection. Several signs suggest it’s time to check your pipes.
Slow drains throughout your house indicate a main line problem. If multiple fixtures drain slowly at once, the issue is deeper than a single clogged sink.
Gurgling sounds from toilets or drains mean air is trapped in your lines. This often happens when blockages prevent proper water flow.
Foul odors coming from drains signal buildup or damage. Sewage smells should never enter your home through functioning pipes.
Water backing up in unexpected places is a red flag. If flushing one toilet causes water to appear in your shower, you need a professional inspection right away.
Standing water in your yard, especially near sewer lines, suggests a leak. Patches of extra green grass can also indicate sewage fertilizing the soil below.
Older homes benefit from proactive inspections. If your house is over 25 years old, pipes may be reaching the end of their lifespan. A camera check gives you peace of mind or early warning.
What Happens During a Professional Sewer Camera Inspection
The inspection process is straightforward and minimally invasive. A technician locates an access point, usually a cleanout or vent. They feed the camera line into your pipes and watch the video feed carefully.
Modern cameras provide clear, color images. They can rotate 360 degrees to examine every angle. The technician records the inspection for your records.
As the camera moves through your system, the technician notes any problems. They can pinpoint exact locations using the cable’s distance markers. This precision helps plan repairs efficiently.
The entire process typically takes one to two hours. You’ll receive a full report explaining what was found and what actions, if any, are needed.
Complementary Services That Keep Your System Healthy
Sewer camera inspections work great alongside other maintenance services. Hydro jetting services use high-pressure water to blast away buildup and blockages. After a camera identifies problem areas, hydro jetting can clean them thoroughly.
Regular rooter service helps maintain clear lines between inspections. These services cut through roots and remove debris before it causes major issues.
For serious problems, combining inspections with modern repair methods provides the best results. Whether you need a minor patch or complete sewer installation, knowing exactly what’s wrong leads to better solutions.
Protecting Your Investment
Your home is likely your biggest investment. Protecting it includes maintaining systems you can’t see. Underground pipes don’t get attention until they fail, but that’s too late.
Regular sewer maintenance prevents unexpected disasters. It protects your home’s value and your family’s comfort. Most importantly, it gives you control over timing and costs.
Emergency repairs happen at the worst times and cost premium prices. Planned maintenance happens on your schedule at standard rates. That difference can save you thousands of dollars.
Take Action Before Problems Strike
Don’t wait for sewage backing up into your home to think about your pipes. A simple camera inspection today can prevent major headaches tomorrow.
Whether you’re buying a new home, maintaining your current property, or dealing with warning signs, professional inspection provides answers. You deserve to know what’s happening beneath your feet.
24 Hour Rooter Connectionz specializes in thorough sewer camera inspections and all related services. Our experienced technicians use the latest equipment to diagnose problems accurately.














