3 Crucial Reasons To Hire A Plumber To Conduct A Camera Inspection
While camera inspections aren't brand-new technology, they are a high-tech way to help diagnose plumbing issues and resolve them in a cost-effective way. Without camera inspections, plumbers would need to rely on far more guesswork to locate issues such as sewer clogs or root intrusion, resulting in more expensive and disruptive repairs.
However, since inspection cameras are expensive tools requiring expertise, homeowners may not always understand when they need them. While plumbers may find many uses for these tools, here are three situations where hiring a plumber to conduct a camera inspection can potentially save you some serious money.
1. Recurring Clogs
You might not be surprised when you drain clogs after your child flushes a toy down the toilet or you stick a ton of food in your kitchen sink's garbage disposal. Improper drain usage is one of the most common reasons for clogs, and these clogs tend to be relatively easy to diagnose and clear. Unfortunately, clogs that keep coming back for no apparent reason are usually more challenging.
A recurring clog usually means there's an underlying issue with your drains or sewer lateral. These issues cause small amounts of waste or debris to become stuck, creating obstructions that usual methods will only partially clear. A camera inspection can reveal the underlying cause of the problem (often root intrusion or pipe damage), allowing you to address the issue permanently.
2. Sewer Leak Detection
Sewer leaks are relatively severe problems that may go undiagnosed for many years. Since your sewer pipes are typically buried underground (and may be deep if you live in an area with cold winters), you often won't notice leaks until they're substantial. Unfortunately, undiagnosed sewer leaks can lead to environmental contamination and may ultimately result in a sewer pipe collapse.
If you have any reason to suspect a leak in your sewer system, a camera inspection is often one of the best ways to locate the problem. Note that your plumber will likely also use other methods, such as pressure testing, to confirm the presence of the leak. These techniques can help you determine if you have a problem and pinpoint it, minimizing the amount of work necessary to conduct repairs.
3. Home Purchases
Hiring a plumber to conduct a camera inspection is arguably one of the best things you can do before purchasing a home. Along with major roofing problems or structural foundation issues, damaged or collapsed sewer lines are among the most expensive home repairs you'll face. Unfortunately, a cursory inspection won't always reveal severe sewer issues.
On the other hand, a camera inspection conducted by an experienced plumber can help you find everything from minor root intrusions to bowed pipes and leaks. Knowing about the existence of these problems may help you get a better deal on your home or, at a minimum, allow you to make an informed decision about your purchase.
Contact a local plumber to learn more.
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