Many homeowners instinctively want to tackle sewer inspections themselves, before really knowing the complexity involved in the process. Before you rush off to the store to buy a pipe inspection camera, ask yourself the following questions:
Do you want to invest the money in purchasing a pipe inspection camera?
Commonly referred to as a snake, a reliable pipe inspection camera can cost as much as $8,000. Although a purchase will ensure you’re prepared for any future issues, it’s a far greater upfront expense than hiring a professional leak detector, who has the expertise needed to operate the equipment. There are some kits that are available for a few hundred dollars, but those come with limitations and tend to be of inferior quality.
What can you expect to see with a pipe inspection camera?
Your sewer line connects to many plumbing fixtures in your home, such as the shower, sinks, bathtubs and toilets. Depending on your home, you may be connected to the city sewer system or a private septic system. In either case, these connections are underground and hard to access. Even with a pipe inspection camera, it can be difficult to understand what you’re looking at and to communicate the problem to a repairman.
Will you potentially have tree roots blocking your visibility?
Unlike other plumbing in your home, sewer lines are susceptible to damage from outside factors, such as tree roots. Tree roots frequently grow into tiny crevices and openings, ultimately causing backups and clogs as they expand. Sewer inspections can be even more vital for older homes because the growth of tree roots tends to be a larger issue as the years go by.
What are other things to look out for?
The materials used to build your sewer line have a limited life expectancy. As time passes, you’ll begin to see the effects of deterioration. Pipes may be damaged, cracked or offset by wear or ground movement. In addition to natural hazards like rust and tree roots, there may also be a problem with the connection between the city sewer system or your septic tank. A pipe inspection camera can help get to the bottom of this issue, but you really need a leak detection professional to interpret what he is seeing through the camera and identify the source of the problem.
Wondering why you should hire a leak detector instead of a plumber?
A professional inspection is the least invasive way to get to the bottom of any sewer problem. Our specialized service and singular focus ensures that you receive the effective service you need. We have no motivation to waste time or upsell, which helps you save money in the long run.
