Common Problems a Drain Camera Inspection Can Find

Wear and tear can sometimes cause certain pipes to crack. Breaks in pipes can be due to tree roots, wear and tear, age, or other forms of external damage.

Inspecting the causes of common plumbing problems can sometimes be challenging. Smaller pipes and stuffy spaces require more visibility, so a drain camera might be necessary to reach the root of the problem. These cameras allow professionals to inspect the plumbing system's blockages, corrosion, cracks, and leaks.

Here are some of the problems that a drain camera may detect:

Uncover hidden corrosion

Over time, pipes can corrode, compromising a plumbing system and even causing it to fail. If not dealt with immediately, corrosion builds up until it compromises the entire system. However, corrosion problems aren't always obvious. Plumbers might need to use a drain camera to inspect pipes and other smaller elements to be sure. Afterward, plumbers can solve the issue with appropriate methods according to the severity of the corrosion.

Identify ruptured sewer lines

Sewer lines are responsible for guiding dirty water away from faucets and toilets. When a sewage line ruptures, it can lead to some foul-smelling plumbing problems. However, identifying such instances can be challenging. A drain camera is small enough to go in and diagnose the rupture accurately. This can also minimize contact with unclean water before starting the repair process. If homeowners notice a problem with their sewage lines, they should contact a professional immediately.

Locate plumbing problems

Typically, drain cameras are small, making for a non-invasive inspection. Plumbers can figure out exactly where to make repairs without much hassle. Usually, the camera is connected to a 500-feet cable. This makes it an efficient instrument for getting the right spot for all homeowner's plumbing issues. 

Help fix cracks and leaks

Wear and tear can sometimes cause certain pipes to crack. Breaks in pipes can be due to tree roots, wear and tear, age, or other forms of external damage. While they might be hard to spot, even the smallest openings can lead to severe plumbing issues. To better identify cracks, professionals will use the drain camera to locate any opening within the pipes. Once established, homeowners must fix the crack immediately to avoid water damage and contamination.

Find clogs and blockages

Clogs and blockages are due to foreign objects hidden within pipes. Examples include dirt, grime, hair, food, and other particles. At first, small amounts of these particles won't play a large role. However, they'll accumulate over time, ultimately blocking the pipe. A drain camera efficiently locates foreign objects within smaller pipes.

Assist with pipes and joint issue inspection

Due to soil conditions and external pressure, plumbing can sink and deform, causing bellied pipes. Once this issue occurs, it leads to other problems as the "belly" accumulates debris over time. A drain camera operated by a professional can quickly locate the exact area of the deformation.

Likewise, plumbing elements can also become faulty due to joint issues. Damage from foreign objects, wear and tear, old age, and leaks can all lead to joint separation. This issue can be hard to detect so a drain camera will be necessary.

Leave plumbing issues to the experts

Homeowners can effectively complete simple plumbing projects. But if they're having trouble identifying the issue, it may be time to call a seasoned professional. Expert plumbers have access to the latest equipment, including drain cameras, to effectively identify the problem. They also have the knowledge and expertise to solve the issue.

Solace Plumbing is a licensed commercial and residential plumber with 26 years of experience in Gilbert, Az. We provide the East Valley with a wide range of plumbing services, including 24-hour emergency service. Some of our specialties include plumbing installation and repair, remodeling, natural gas and propane piping, slab leak detection, and full-service repiping. Commercial work includes restaurants, school districts, and tenant improvements. Call Solace Plumbing at 480-630-0224.