When it comes to plumbing issues, running a camera down your drain is often the most effective method of diagnosis and repair. This service can help you detect problems before they become too severe and costly to deal with. It’s important to know how much this service usually costs and what can make the price go up or down.
You can decide better about your plumbing needs if you know about drain camera inspections and how much they cost. In this article, we’ll talk about the inspection of sewers with cameras and the different factors and costs that come with it. Read through the post for more!
What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection? Explained!
Inspecting sewers with cameras is a process that involves inserting a unique, waterproof camera into a sewage system. You can check the state of the system and find any problems that might be stopping it from working. Plumbers, sewage specialists, and homeowners regularly use this approach. It helps them detect blockages, leaks, cracks, and other flaws that might lead to significant plumbing problems.
The camera is hooked to a long, flexible cable during this inspection. The cable is placed into the sewage system through an access point such as a cleanout or a toilet. The camera then sends high-quality video images of the inside of the sewage pipe to a display. It helps the technician to explore it in real-time.
How Much Does It Cost to Have a Camera Run Down Your Drain?
The cost of having a camera run down your drain depends heavily on the type of service needed and the complexity of the issue you are facing. Generally, the price range for this service is between $350-$550.
Cost Factors for Sewer Line Inspections
When it comes to having a camera run down your drain, several factors influence the total cost of the service. These include the length of the sewer line, accessibility of the sewer line, and type of camera used for the inspection.
Length of the sewer line
The length of the sewer line is one major factor influencing cost. Longer sewer lines will require more time for inspection and therefore cost more. Additionally, if a specialist needs to travel farther to reach the sewer line, this can also impact the price.
Accessibility of the sewer line
The accessibility of the main sewer line is another important factor in determining costs. If multiple access points need to be cleared to reach the pipe or are hard to reach, then this will increase the inspection cost.
The type of camera used
Another factor impacting cost is the type of camera used for the inspection. Speciality cameras like borescopes and infrared cameras can cost more than a regular sewer camera. You should take this into account when figuring out costs.
Average Cost of Camera Inspection
Inspection with cameras has become an essential tool for both residential and commercial properties to assess the condition of plumbing and sewer lines. However, the inspection cost can vary depending on the property type and location.
Residential vs. Commercial
The cost of camera inspections can vary significantly between residential and commercial properties. On average, a sewer line camera inspection costs between $350-$550 for residential premises and $550-$1,500 for commercial sites. Commercial properties often have more complex plumbing systems and larger pipes. These require more time and resources to investigate thoroughly.
How Long Does a Sewer Inspection Take?
Inspections of sewers are an essential part of routine maintenance for both residential and commercial properties. Property owners may have one common question: how long an inspection takes.
Factors Affecting Inspection Time of Sewers
Type of Property: The time it takes to inspect a sewer line can vary based on the property type. For example, a residential property may have a shorter sewer line than a commercial property. A commercial property may have a more extensive network of pipes.
Length of the Sewer Line: The length of the sewage line might also affect how long it takes to finish an inspection. Longer lines need more inspection time, but shorter lines can be examined more rapidly.
Obstructions in the Sewer Line: There can be blockages in the sewer line, such as tree roots, debris, or clogs. In that case, the inspection may take longer to complete. Before the examination is conducted, the plumber may need to utilize extra instruments such as a snake or hydro-jet to clear the clog.
Depth of the Sewer Line: The depth of the sewage line also affects how long it takes to finish the inspection. Deeper sewage lines need more time to examine since the plumber may need more equipment to access the pipe.
Average Time for Sewer Inspection
A sewer inspection can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours on average. But it depends on the factors mentioned above. But, if there are severe concerns with the sewage line, certain inspections may take longer. Suppose the sewage line has to be repaired or replaced. In that case, the assessment may take longer since the plumber must determine the extent of the damage.
It’s crucial to know that the time it takes to do a sewage inspection varies depending on the plumbing business. Moreover, some firms may offer expedited inspection services for a cost, which might shorten the inspection time.
DIY vs Hiring a Professional
Sewer pipe inspection is integral to property maintenance to ensure the system is in excellent working order. A sewage line inspection may be performed in two ways: do it yourself (DIY) or hire a plumber who is professional. Let’s explore their fundamental differences:
Expertise and Equipment
One of the primary differences between DIY sewage line inspection and hiring experts is the required level of knowledge and equipment. Inspections of sewers need specialized cameras, instruments, and knowledge of plumbing and sewer systems. Experts have the skills and training to uncover concerns that a DIY examination may miss. A skilled assessment can also detect early symptoms of possible issues, such as root invasion or corrosion.
Safety
Inspections of sewers may be hazardous if not done correctly. Hiring a professional plumber guarantees that the examination is carried out safely and correctly. Professionals have the required expertise and equipment to handle dangerous chemicals and gases, which can be hazardous for do-it-yourself inspections.
Time and Effort
While DIY inspections are a cost-effective alternative, they demand significant effort and time. Access to the sewage pipes is required for an inspection, which can be difficult and time-consuming for a homeowner. Moreover, DIY inspections may demand the purchase or leasing of specialist equipment, which can be costly.
Cost
DIY inspections may appear to be a low-cost alternative but may wind up costing you more in the long run. If a homeowner overlooks an issue during a DIY inspection, it might lead to more serious problems and costly repairs later on. Professional inspections may be more expensive upfront. Still, they may save homeowners money in the long term by discovering problems early and avoiding more significant concerns from emerging.
Why Is Smith Drain Solutions the Best?
If you are encountering difficulties with your drain pipes, Smith Drain Solutions is here to help. As drain cleaning specialists, we are the go-to professionals for households and businesses from Wilminton, Delaware to Baltimore, Maryland. Smith Drain Solutions uses the most up-to-date tools and technology to find and clear even the toughest drain clogs. Our professional specialists have the knowledge to determine the leading cause of the problem and provide a unique remedy to get your drain running properly again.
But it’s not only about resolving the issue. Smith Drain Solutions also offers maintenance services to help you avoid drain problems in the future. We have the skills and experience to keep your drains in good working order, from routine drain cleaning to sewer video inspections. Don’t allow a clogged drain to get in your way. For reliable, professional drain cleaning services from Wilmington, Delaware to Baltimore, Maryland, contact Smith Drain Solutions today.
Final Thoughts
An inspection of sewer is a critical aspect of plumbing maintenance, and it’s essential to do it correctly. Hiring a professional plumber ensures the inspection is done correctly and efficiently, with minimal risk of damage and expensive future repairs. Professional inspections also provide peace of mind since problems are detected early and prevented from worsening. Whether you’re a homeowner or a property manager, it’s essential to know that inspections of sewers don’t need to be expensive. Professional plumbing services are available for a reasonable cost. They can save you time, effort, and money in the long run. We hope the article has helped you understand what a sewage line inspection entails.
