Like many tools, devices, and procedures a sewer camera inspection can be extremely useful. But it can also be misused, and misinterpreted. In many cases, it may even be completely unnecessary. Before a property owner takes the time and the expense to have a sewer camera inspection done, they should be aware of some simple facts and information.
A skilled technician who has integrity
Sewer cameras, both modern and old, magnify images a great deal. This can easily make a normal joint, or an extremely small defect, look like a serious drain line issue. It is not unheard for an unscrupulous drain technician to use this fact to pressure a property owner into doing additional work. In some extreme cases, to have unnecessary repairs done. It is a wise decision to not impulsively agree to have sewer repairs done. If a technician is putting undo pressure on you, that alone is ample reason to give pause.
A Balkan Drain Professional Shows A Modern Sewer Video Camera
A sewer camera inspection performed by a skilled drain cleaning technician will include a careful explanation. They should also give you access to the video itself. Obviously if the waste water is flowing, there is no imminent reason to decide on the spot to start repair work.
The cost of a sewer camera inspection
If a house drain or house sewer has an easy access point, the price should be able to be quoted before any work starts. Quotes should be iron-clad, and preferably in writing beforehand. Most firms, Balkan Drain Cleaning included, will quote a price for this service right over the phone. There are other very important issues, other than price, that are discussed below. Frequently a property owner shops by price alone, neglecting to consider the quality of the service. In the case of a sewer camera inspection, using price as the sole hiring factor can make for a complete waste of the effort.
Modern sewer camera inspection vs. older equipment
In the not too distant past a sewer camera inspection resulted in a grainy, low definition image. The image also limited to black and white image. It produced questionable images on which to make a well informed sewer repair decision on. The video was captured on VHS tape. The equipment itself was just as expensive as the new and improved modern equipment used currently.
Old Style VHS Sewer Camera
Previous generation sewer camera screen
Current modern sewer camera inspection equipment is full color, and high definition.The finished video is easily shared over the internet almost instantly after the video is completed. The images are crystal clear, and the location of any defect can be pinpointed. The camera unit itself is easier to use, and much more compact. Furthermore, the location of the video camera can be traced above ground to an exact correct location.
Modern sewer camera head
Inside of drain line on Ipad
Why a video sewer camera inspection is so useful
Different drain or sewer line issues are dealt with in different fashions. Many do not require pipe repair or replacement. While others can be easily spot repaired. Some drain line issues such a complete failure of the entire run of pipe, of a back pitched sewer, can typically require a complete replacement. Therefore having a clear visual of the problem can help a property owner and their plumber decide upon an intelligent and correct remedy to the problem.
As stated above, a video camera can be electronically traced from above ground. This makes pinpointing the exact location of a defect or multiple defects relatively fool proof. Knowing if an underground drain line runs under sensitive finished areas it useful in figuring out which course of action to take. In addition knowing where the defect is located is vital in determining the cost of the repairs, and what permits maybe required.
What is a sewer video camera capable of doing?
The capabilities of a sewer video camera are far reaching. A typical modern camera can easily be placed inside of a pipe as small as 2″, and with the correct attachments up to 36″ in diameter. Cameras are built to go through any legal pipe bends, even 90 degree elbows. The images are transmitted in real-time – meaning the determination can be instantaneous. Furthermore, the image takes in the full width of any typically sized house drain or house sewer.
“Putting it all together” regarding sewer inspections
To get the most for your efforts, a property owner has to make sure they’re dealing with the correct drain professional. The right technician with antiquated equipment, is just as bad as modern equipment in the wrong hands. A drain company dedicated to their trade will provide a complete package to address your needs.
- A skilled technician, who provides an honest assessment.
- Modern and well maintained equipment and tools.
- A fair and up-front price structure.
- A warranty on work performed.
- General liability and workers compensation insurance.
- A timely and dependable response time.
If you live in the NYC metropolitan area, you can trust the Balkan Drain Team for all of your sewer, drain, and water line needs. New Yorkers have depended on us for well over 60 years. All of our drain equipment is state of the art, and in tip-top shape.