Common Issues That Can Be Identified With a Drain Camera

Are you frustrated by a sluggish drain or a surprise toilet overflow? Traditional plumbing troubleshooting can be a guessing game, often leading to unnecessary digging and repairs. But there’s a better way! Drain camera inspections offer a non-destructive solution for accurately diagnosing hidden plumbing problems.

These inspections use a high-tech camera mounted on a flexible cable. The camera is inserted into your drainpipes, providing a real-time view of the inner workings. This allows plumbers to pinpoint the exact cause of the issue, whether it’s stubborn blockages, sneaky tree roots, or even hidden cracks.

Early detection through a camera inspection can save time, money, and frustration!

What is a Drain Camera Inspection?

A drain camera inspection uses a specialised tool to see inside your pipes without digging them up. The key component is a long, flexible cable with a high-resolution camera head attached at the tip. This camera transmits live video footage to a monitor the plumber can use to navigate the pipes and identify any problems.

The inspection process is straightforward. The plumber will first locate an access point to your drain system, such as a cleanout or drain vent. They’ll then feed the camera cable into the pipes, guiding it with a control panel. The camera transmits a live video feed to the monitor, allowing the plumber to see the condition of the pipes from the inside.

Drain camera systems often have recording capabilities. This allows the plumber to capture footage of the inspection for future reference. This recording can help show you the problem firsthand or share it with other repair professionals.

Benefits of Drain Camera Inspections

Drain camera inspections offer many advantages for homeowners dealing with plumbing issues. Here’s a closer look at some key benefits:

Accurate Diagnosis

Unlike traditional methods that rely on guesswork, drain camera inspections provide a clear picture of the problem. The high-resolution camera allows plumbers to see exactly what’s causing the blockage or malfunction. This could be anything from stubborn grease build-up and tree roots to cracks and misaligned pipes. Plumbers can recommend the most effective repair solution with a precise diagnosis, saving you time and frustration.

Non-Destructive Approach

Traditional plumbing troubleshooting often involves digging trenches or breaking through walls to access pipes. This can be disruptive, time-consuming, and damage your property.

Drain camera inspections are entirely non-destructive. The camera navigates the pipes through existing access points, eliminating the need for excavation or demolition.

Saves Time and Money

Early and accurate diagnosis with a camera inspection saves you money in the long run. By pinpointing the exact problem location, plumbers can focus their repair efforts on the specific area, avoiding unnecessary work. This translates to quicker repairs and reduced labour costs. Additionally, catching problems early can prevent them from escalating into more serious and expensive issues down the line, like burst pipes or water damage.

Future Planning Tool

A drain camera inspection is for more than just immediate troubleshooting. The recorded footage provides a valuable record of your plumbing system’s internal health. This can be helpful for future planning and preventative maintenance.

By identifying potential issues like minor cracks or deteriorating pipe sections, you can address them before they become major problems, saving you from unforeseen future headaches and expenses.

Peace of Mind

Drain camera inspections allow you to see firsthand what’s happening inside your pipes. This eliminates the uncertainty and worry associated with hidden plumbing problems. With a clear understanding of your system’s health, you can rest assured that your drains are functioning properly and avoid potential plumbing emergencies.

Common Plumbing Problems Identified with Drain Cameras

Drain camera inspections are powerful for identifying many plumbing problems hidden within your pipes. Here’s a breakdown of some common issues a camera can uncover:

Blockages

The most frequent culprit behind sluggish drains and complete blockages is debris build-up. Drain cameras offer a clear view of what’s causing the obstruction. Whether it’s a greasy mess from years of cooking oil disposal, a hair clog formed from regular showering, or a random object accidentally flushed down the drain, the camera reveals the exact nature of the blockage, allowing plumbers to recommend the most suitable removal method.

Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots are notorious for seeking moisture sources; your underground pipes are no exception. Tiny cracks or gaps in pipes can act as entry points for tree roots, which can increase inside the pipes, causing blockages and even structural damage.

Drain camera inspections visually confirm tree root intrusion, allowing plumbers to assess the extent of the problem and determine the best course of action, such as mechanical root removal or pipe repair/replacement.

Cracked or Broken Pipes

Over time, pipes can develop weaknesses due to age, corrosion, or shifting ground. Drain cameras are adept at detecting cracks, leaks, and even complete pipe fractures. The camera footage allows plumbers to pinpoint the exact location and severity of the damage.

Misaligned Pipes

Improper installation or ground movement can cause pipes to become misaligned. Drain camera inspections can reveal these misalignments, allowing plumbers to assess if they’re causing drainage issues or pose a potential risk for future problems.

Deteriorated Pipes

As pipes age, they can deteriorate due to corrosion or mineral build-up. Drain camera inspections can identify these signs of wear and tear, allowing plumbers to determine if the pipes need cleaning, repair, or replacement to ensure your plumbing system functions optimally.

When Do You Need To Take Action?

Don’t wait for a major plumbing emergency to suspect a problem. Here are some telltale signs that your drains might benefit from a camera inspection:

• Slow drains or frequent blockages: If your drains are constantly sluggish or experience frequent clogs, a camera can help identify the cause.
• Unusual gurgling sounds: Gurgling noises from your drains can indicate blockages or hidden leaks.
• Foul odours emanating from drains: Unpleasant odours from your drains suggest a potential blockage or malfunction that a camera can investigate.
• Water damage near pipes: Visible water damage near pipes can indicate leaks deeper within the system. A camera inspection can help pinpoint the source.
• Purchasing a new property: For added peace of mind when buying a new home, a pre-purchase drain camera inspection can reveal any underlying plumbing issues.

See the Unseen. Schedule a Drain Camera Inspection.

As our guide shows, a drain camera inspection can help you identify a range of issues without having to perform excessive excavation or work.

Are you considering a drain camera inspection? At WP Plumbing, our licensed plumbers are experienced in using camera technology to diagnose plumbing problems. We’ll quickly identify the problem and ensure a smooth and efficient repair process.

Whether you have a blocked drain or tree roots infiltrating your pipes - our team are here to help. Give us a call today at (03) 9122 8652 to see what we can do for you.