Even with today’s advanced plumbing systems, issues can still develop deep within your pipes. A plumbing camera inspection allows professionals to locate the exact source of a problem without unnecessary digging or guesswork. At Snowbird Heating & Cooling, we use camera inspections as one of the most accurate and efficient tools for diagnosing plumbing issues. If you’ve never had one before, here’s what to expect during the process and why it’s worth it.
What Is a Plumbing Camera Inspection?
A plumbing camera inspection uses a small, waterproof camera attached to a flexible cable to provide a live video feed of the interior of your pipes. The camera travels through the plumbing system, navigating bends, slopes, and connections while transmitting real-time footage to a monitor.
As one of our experienced plumbers guides the camera through your system, they can instantly identify blockages, damage, or buildup. This process removes the guesswork from diagnosing plumbing problems and eliminates the need to dig up your yard or remove walls.
Plumbing Camera Inspection Process
Not every plumbing issue requires a camera inspection, but it is the most efficient option when the cause of a problem is unclear. You may need one if you experience repeated drain clogs, gurgling toilets, foul sewer odors, or unexplained water backups. A camera inspection is also highly recommended before purchasing a home, as it gives you a clear look at the plumbing system’s condition before closing the deal.
The Initial Assessment
Before the inspection begins, we’ll ask about your plumbing history and any ongoing issues. Knowing where and how often clogs occur helps us determine where to start. Next, we locate the best access point, such as a cleanout or floor drain, to insert the camera. If the pipe is blocked, we may perform a light drain cleaning first to clear a path for the camera.
The Camera Insertion
Once the setup is complete, our technician carefully inserts the camera into the pipe. The camera is equipped with LED lights to illuminate and record high-definition video as it moves. The flexible cable allows smooth navigation through turns and joints. We monitor the live feed on-screen, adjusting the camera’s direction and speed to get a complete, detailed view of the pipe’s condition. You can even watch along as we explain what we find in real time.
Identifying Common Problems
During the inspection, we may encounter several common plumbing issues. Grease buildup is a frequent cause of slow drains, as it coats the inside of pipes and restricts flow. In outdoor sewer lines, tree roots can enter through small cracks or joints. Older metal pipes may show corrosion or mineral deposits that narrow the passage. The camera can also reveal cracks from freezing, soil movement, or even foreign objects like wipes or toys that accidentally enter the drain.
Because the camera provides an exact visual, we can pinpoint the problem’s location and recommend the most effective solution for your situation.
Reviewing the Footage and Findings
After the inspection, we review the recorded footage with you and discuss our findings. You’ll see the interior of your pipes and understand the exact cause of the problem. We also provide digital images or video files for your records, which are useful for insurance claims or tracking your plumbing system’s condition over time.
Recommended Solutions
Once we’ve identified the issue, we’ll recommend the most effective solution. For grease or mineral buildup, hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to clean pipe interiors and restore flow. For cracks or broken sections, pipe repair or replacement may be necessary. When possible, trenchless pipe lining offers a modern solution that reinforces the pipe from within, avoiding the need to dig up your yard.
If your pipes are mostly in good shape but show minor buildup, we may recommend periodic maintenance or professional drain cleaning to prevent future clogs. Because our recommendations are based on actual video evidence, you’ll always know that you’re getting the most accurate diagnosis and repair plan.
Why Plumbing Camera Inspections Are Worth It
Camera inspections provide unmatched accuracy and peace of mind. Seeing inside your pipes allows us to make confident, evidence-based repairs and prevent recurring issues. The process is quick, noninvasive, and far less disruptive than exploratory excavation.
Early detection is another major benefit. Catching small cracks or root intrusions early prevents major damage and expensive excavation later. Finding the source of a problem before it worsens saves time and money, prevents water damage, and reduces unnecessary stress.
When to Schedule a Plumbing Camera Inspection
You don’t need to wait for a plumbing emergency to schedule a camera inspection. It’s a great preventive measure for homeowners who want peace of mind about their system’s condition. It’s especially useful after major landscaping or construction projects that may have shifted underground pipes.
For older homes, camera inspections are essential. Many properties built decades ago still have galvanized steel or cast iron pipes that corrode internally over time. Regular inspections every few years can identify these issues early and help you plan repairs before a major failure.
Contact Snowbird Heating & Cooling to Schedule Your Camera Inspection
A plumbing camera inspection gives you a complete, accurate view of what’s happening inside your pipes. It helps you make informed decisions, prevents unnecessary repairs, and ensures your plumbing system stays healthy for years to come. At Snowbird Heating & Cooling, we’ve proudly served Polk County since 1991, providing professional plumbing, water treatment, and drain cleaning services.
Contact us today to schedule your plumbing camera inspection and protect your home from hidden problems.
