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Plumbing problems can happen to anyone, at home or at work, and are often not noticed until a lot of damage has been done. A drain line camera is a modern tool that lets professionals check pipes without having to dig or guess. And how do you know when it’s time for a CCTV drain check? Here are some of the most important signs that your pipes may have a bigger problem.
1. Frequent Clogs or Slow Drains
If you find yourself constantly reaching for the plunger or dealing with slow-moving drains, it may be more than a surface-level issue. Recurring clogs could signal a deeper blockage that chemical drain cleaners or plungers can’t fix. A drain line camera can go through your pipes and find the exact spot and type of blockage, whether it’s grease, trash, or even a tree root.
2. Foul Odors from Drains
Persistent bad smells coming from sinks, tubs, or floor drains are another red flag. Many times, these smells come from food waste that gets stuck, sewage that backs up, or things that are breaking down that get stuck in the line. Rather than guessing what’s causing the smell, a CCTV drain inspection can provide a clear image of the interior pipe walls, helping plumbers quickly locate and resolve the issue.
3. Water Backups
Water backing up into tubs, sinks, or toilets is not only unpleasant but also a serious sign that your drain system is compromised. Backups typically indicate a blockage or broken section within the pipe. A drain line camera inspection can visually confirm whether you’re dealing with a collapsed pipe, intruding tree roots, or a buildup of materials, allowing for targeted and efficient repair.
4. Unexplained Increases in Water Bills
Someone may be leaking water in your home if your water bill goes up all of a sudden, without any leaks being seen. Leaks in buried or inaccessible pipes often go undetected until water bills skyrocket. Using a drain line camera, plumbers can inspect the interior of pipes to detect leaks or cracks without tearing up your landscaping or floors.
5. Lush Spots or Sinkholes in Your Yard
Have you seen parts of your yard that are unusually green or that are always wet? There may be leaks in the sewer or drain pipe if these things happen. When wastewater escapes underground, it can feed the grass above it and cause visible changes in soil density. A CCTV inspection with a drain line camera can locate the break and help you avoid unnecessary excavation.
6. Old Plumbing System
If your property is older and hasn’t had its plumbing inspected in years, it’s wise to schedule a proactive drain line camera inspection. Older pipes are more prone to corrosion, shifting, or collapse. Even if you haven’t yet experienced any symptoms, an inspection can provide peace of mind and catch minor issues before they turn into major problems.
7. Buying or Renovating a Property
Before purchasing a new home or beginning major renovations, it’s essential to know the condition of the existing plumbing. A quick inspection with a drain line camera can reveal hidden damage that could cost thousands to fix later. This due diligence step is particularly important when buying older homes or properties with mature trees nearby.
Conclusion
CCTV drain inspections are a cheap and non-intrusive way to find and fix a lot of different plumbing problems. A drain line camera can help you figure out what’s wrong with clogs, bad smells, water backups, or leaks you can’t explain. This way, you can avoid expensive repairs and make smart choices. If you’re not sure what’s going on underground, you should talk to a professional plumber who has up-to-date camera technology.