The plumbing system is the lifeline of your home. It provides the water we use to cook, clean our homes, and clean ourselves. The main sewer line is an incredibly important function of keeping your plumbing system operating smoothly, since it drains away all the unwanted water. But what happens if there is a problem with your sewer line? These issues are a little trickier to address than issues with any visible plumbing. This is where the camera inspection comes in.
What Is A Sewer Camera Inspection
A camera inspection is the best way to diagnose any problems associated with your sewer line. Since this large, long pipe is buried underground, it is not accessible to observation with the naked eye. So, a plumber uses a small camera attached to a flexible rod that travels down the pipe. He or she can observe the inside of the pipe from a small video screen to detect any issues. The team at CJ’s Express Plumbing can perform a comprehensive inspection of your sewer line using high grade video equipment mounted on a heavy-duty cable. They will also offer a free quote of any work needed to be performed by highly experienced plumbers.
Buying A New Home
When you are purchasing a home, you are also investing in yourself and your family. A traditional home inspection will look for any obvious plumbing issues and leaks inside the home, but tells you nothing about the condition of your sewer line. To be completely thorough in your home inspection, have a camera inspection of the sewer line performed. Once you take ownership of the house, any problems that come up are your responsibility, even if it existed before closing.
Drains Emitting A Terrible Smell
Drains can smell bad for a variety of reasons. There could be a build-up of bacteria, rotting food and grease in the garbage disposal, or a clog from hair and personal cleansing products. Many of these are self diagnosable and easy to treat with DIY remedies. But, what if the terrible smell persists, even after trying to take care of it on your own? It could indicate a clog in your sewer line. This is a call for immediate attention. The only way to diagnose a sewer clog is to have a visual inspection through a professional camera inspection.
Water Drains Slowly Or Not At All
If you notice slow draining or standing water in your sinks, tubs, or shower basins, this is a sure sign of a blockage. The only question is where and what kind? For minor blockages, most homeowners can take a few steps to clear them on their own. First, try plunging the drains by creating an airtight seal. If that doesn’t work, you can create a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to help break up the clog, or purchase a drain cleaner. If you don’t have any luck on your own, a camera inspection will get to the bottom of your blockage so you can clear your pipes for good.
Fluctuations In Water Pressure
You need consistent water pressure to carry out everyday tasks. If the pressure is too low, your dishwasher will not work optimally, showering will become difficult, even flushing can be a challenge. Inconsistent water pressure is a red flag for a leak. Not only is a leak a nuisance, but it will increase your water bill if it isn’t fixed right away. A sewer camera inspection will reveal any cracks in your line that are leaking water, affecting your home’s water pressure. Then it’s a matter of discovering the cause of the crack and replacing the damaged pipe.
You Have Water Leaking Under The Foundation
Water leaking under the foundation can signal big trouble, not just for your home’s plumbing system, but for your entire home. You should never ignore any unexplained water on your home’s exterior. If you notice foundation leaks, a video inspection of the sewer line can help solve the problem before it causes structural damage. The same principle applies to consistently finding standing water in your lawn. This could cause problems with erosion or create a breeding ground for insects such as mosquitoes.
Any mold, mildew or water spots are also signs you are dealing with a moisture problem. Make sure you rule out a leak in your plumbing system and rid your home of the hazardous substances as soon as possible. The sewer camera inspection can prove invaluable in the care and maintenance of your plumbing and your home.
