Drain Inspection Camera: Why It’s the Best Equipment to Locate Plumbing Issues
Using a CCTV camera will allow you to see exactly what’s going on inside your pipes. Here’s why a drain inspection camera is the best equipment to locate plumbing issues:
Multipurpose
- Understanding: Often, CCTV drain cameras are used to inspect your pipes, thereby locating and identifying the source of a leak or blockage. Numerous things can cause clogs, for example, debris, food, and hygiene products. Numerous types of problems are presented with these types of blockages. However, a CCTV drain camera gives a drainage engineer a thorough understanding of the issue. This helps the plumber select the right tool to get rid of the blockage. Finally, the drainage engineer can advise you in coming up with a plan to get rid of future blockages.
- Accuracy: Because improperly installed or broken piping may be causing the issue, a different approach is required to address the problem properly. For example, blockages are often caused by tree roots that break pipes; by using a CCTV camera, you can precisely pinpoint the location of the problem. Because roots may sometimes be removed manually through digging up and also through trenchless technology, the drain inspection camera enables the operator to find exactly where people must start digging.
Because an issue has been identified with the pipe, be that an improperly installed one or simply broken pipework, a different approach is required in order to properly address the problem. As an example, blockages can be caused by tree roots breaking through the pipe; by using a CCTV drain camera, the operator can precisely pinpoint the exact location of the fault, and, if required, excavate the required location, rather than a larger area. Equally, if a trenchless solution is available, this layer of accuracy will be highly beneficial, saving time, effort and money.
- Recovery: A really good use of a CCTV drain camera is to help locate lost items that have fallen into the drain.
Proactive
Since pipes aren’t made to last forever, it’s important to carry out CCTV inspection of your pipes as it may reveal a small issue that has the potential to transform into a rather costly mess. For example, minor corrosion in your pipes isn’t always readily evident. However, corrosion can lead to major breaks or leaks in the future.
A drain inspection camera assists to stave off any potential damage to your pipes. With that being said, it’s inadvisable to conduct this inspection by yourself. Dealing with small issues now can assist you in saving a lot of hassle and money in the future.
Easy
Generally, gleaning information about your pipes is challenging. However, CCTV offers the experts a simple capability to record and analyze the issues in your pipes. Plus, they can see the actual problem in video. Numerous CCTVs have very powerful LED lights that offer visuals that are crystal clear.
If one has access to such detail, a more comprehensive understanding of the issue can be brought about. All this technology seems complex and is precise; a water-tight container (at the end of a pliable push rod) contains the drain inspection camera. It can be effortlessly inserted into a pipe and then threaded throughout your plumbing system. There’s no guesswork, no struggling with metal snakes, and no digging. Watching the display is all a drainage engineer has to do.
Reduced Cost
Using CCTV equipment enables experts to ascertain the precise location of a problem within your pipes. Additionally, they can do so without causing any unneeded destruction of your property. Plus, the time that used to be needed to locate an issue within a sewer system is substantially mitigated by the simple addition of a CCTV drain camera. This reduced time means you’ll have to give lower fees.
Looking for drainage CCTV equipment or a drain camerafor sale? Contact Scanprobe now!
Diving Deep Into Inspection Camera Issues
Imagine this: You’re kneeling in dry, dusty grass right beside a cleanout, pushing your Scanprobe pipe inspection system slowly down into the drain. The pushrod is a little bit slippery, but thankfully stiff; it’s flexible enough to enable you to tackle the 90-degree turn at the base of the cleanout and then coax it in the street direction. The lawn seems to be enormous. The customers’ drains and toilets back up almost every time it rains, and you’ve confirmed that everything between the cleanout and the house is flowing normally. Under the lawn lies your problem, and it’s certain to involve a leaking or broken pipe.
It occurs to you that you’re propelling a video camera into what’s certainly a damaged sewer pipe. What could possibly go wrong? As it turns out, plenty.
While this imaginary scenario seems relatively controlled and safe in comparison to certain camera applications that we’ve heard about over the years, contractors damage their drain inspection systems in similar scenarios on a daily basis. It is simple to do and costly to correct, so let’s discuss the three most usual suspects and witness what we can learn.
Wearing the pushrod on the sewer entry
The pushrod itself is comprised of some tough and durable materials, designed to handle the tough terrain that comes with sewer inspection, so you needn’t treat it like your grandma’s fine china. Equally, it will eventually wear down to the data-carrying wires inside, and when that happens you can expect your camera system to be out of action whilst it is being re-ended. So take a little care where you can. When entering a pipeline at a harsh angle, try positioning a spare piece of pipe into the pipeline entry to soften the entry angle and stop the pushrod from rubbing & wearing on the top edge. Placing a piece of un-used liner over this section of the entry point will also reduce the wear & tear on the rod and enhance the lifespan of your drain camera.
Kinking the pushrod while you thrust it into the pipe
Numerous camera repair centers report that kinks usually occur in the first few feet of the push rod. This can happen when the pushrod is inserted with excess force, especially when there is a blockage or a tight bend to navigate. It may also happen when the operator tries to stand, instead of crouch or kneel beside the drain opening. If you allow it too much room to roam, the pushrod may bow out and kink right before your eyes.
This would be both expensive and embarrassing. Based on the severity of the problem and the brand, a re-termination on a standard pushrod can be costly, as it takes your camera system out of operation whilst it is being repaired.
Our advice is: Slow down, keep your hands low, and as close to the drain as you can. Watch where you’re going and use fast, short motions to get around a blend. Focus!
Damaging the camera head
The camera head is one of the more expensive parts of the pipe inspection system, and often the most vulnerable. The majority of damaged camera heads that arrive at repair centers have a light ring or a cracked lens cover, presumably the consequence of being used as tremendously costly battering rams. The video camera in your pipe inspection system isn’t much different from the one that you used to record the wedding of your eldest cousin. The guts are the same, but it may have been sealed in a stainless steel protective case behind a cap cover of sapphire lens. The LED lights are hidden behind thick glass, and the whole thing is either epoxied or pipe threaded to the end of the pushrod, so it’s sealed up like a tomb in Egypt. While this sounds impressive, all of that is no defense for a drain cleaner who is overly enthusiastic and keen to both identify and clear the blockage with the camera, rather than a more appropriate tool.
Our advice is, don’t use your pipe inspection system as a drain cleaner. You have other tools in your truck that are much less expensive to repair and are much better suited for that task. Don’t blink your eyes when looking at the monitor. If the camera head is approaching a foreign object, a break in the pipe, or is underwater, approach with caution and complete your survey as best you can so you can diagnose the problem. Pay attention, be careful.
Besides these two calamities, are there other ways to damage your camera system? Well, of course. From accidentally getting the camera head stuck in the pipe to kinking the pushrod a hundred feet down the line, there are a plethora of problems that can pop up in the life of a camera system. However, tackling the above will substantially lessen the odds of having a mishap related to the camera ruin your day.
Over the years, we’ve noticed that certain contractors rarely see their camera systems go down for repair, while others seem specifically hard on them. The majority of plumbers and cleaners lie in the middle range, experiencing occasional problems. The important takeaway here is that repair centers see a coherent association between frequency and technique of repairs. Live and learn!
Whether you’re looking for drain cameras for sale or want a drain camera for rent, let Scanprobe know!
Drain Inspection Camera System: Which One Is Right For You?
If you want your plumbing systems to function correctly, sewer channels need to be free of obstructions and buildup. This way, the wastewater can be taken away from residential and commercial buildings. Unluckily, there are channels within the comprehensive sewer network that aren’t accessible to expert plumbing contractors or city employees like yourself.
Advanced sewer cameras should be used to inspect pipes; to see where the buildup lies. These applications may be fed through both small and large pipes and show you just what you’re dealing with in high definition. Although it may sound as if drainage camera systems are one-size-fits-all, that isn’t always the case. With numerous types of inspection cameras to select from, it’s important to understand which models are ideal for the type of setting that you work in. Please read this blog and learn how you can differentiate between various options.
Small video nozzles for easy problem assessment and portability
If portability is a big worry and you want to evaluate a job without needing to have your crew by your side, an investment in a video nozzle can be wise. This is mainly for jetters who want to see what they’re jetting before they report to the site to do the work. It may also be used to find out the source of a particular problem, to evaluate if other pipe maintenance is required, and to understand what hazards may be present. Since it’s easily portable and small, it can be carried on any truck. However, you’ll need to review the footage later on a tablet or computer.
The camera system on wheels
Crawlers, which are also known as mobile drainage camera systems, are essentially the RC car of sewage camera inspection systems. If you’re frequently performing repairs or jetting pipes deep in complex sewage systems, wheeled sewer cameras may be a very good choice. They aren’t just fun to operate but are also equipped with HD video cameras and on-board sensors that make it possible to discover problems that are difficult to identify without requiring a CCU.
Push cameras for inspection with the smallest pipes in the network
Small-sized pipes are vulnerable to clogs. If you document, record, and view the conditions of a small pipe, a push camera inspection system will be perfect. While it resembles a garden hose, it’s equipped with video capabilities and internal memory, allowing you to see what you’re dealing with in real-time. Selecting a camera system that will be practical for the work that you take on is vital. If you’re still confused, you can always ask for assistance from respected sewer equipment vendors, a decent drain camera manufacturer like Scanprobe.
Service has never been so important
Your Definitive Guide to Grease Traps
When grease, oil, and fat are poured into the sink and go down the drain, overflow and sewer blockages may occur. Overflows cause the sewage in its raw form to be spilled onto sidewalks and city streets along with storm drains, which ultimately end up in the bay or on your property. This is a major health hazard, and thus the use of grease traps and systems of support may assist in the reduction of overflows and blockages within drainage systems.
What Are Grease Traps and What Do They Do?
Such traps are ultimately plumbing devices used for grease and oil interception before their entry within the wastewater disposal system. Grease traps lower the flow of greasy/hot water, which allows cooling to occur. As the water becomes cooler, the oil and grease within the water separate from one another, which allows the grease to come up within the trap, allowing for disposal to occur easily.
The traps are known as oil management systems, grease recovery devices, and interceptors. They aim to collaborate with the internal plumbing and trap as much grease before the water enters the property’s private sewer lateral (PSL). They may differ in size as they may be big tanks placed on building exteriors or even small floor traps under a three-compartment sink. Either way, the frequency, yield, and capacity will allow you to set a daily maintenance schedule.
Why Are Grease Traps Installed?
Plumbers and restaurateurs will tell you that the maintenance of grease capture tools is not easy. It is a dreaded task within the business of commercial foods. However, it is important to understand that these tools are vital, and if they were not used, grease build-up would be a nightmare for city infrastructure and commercial property owners.
Best Practices for Grease Trap Maintenance
Property managers have to be aware of the occurrence of build-up, which is localized within grease trap systems. In particular, this occurs within the interior pipes between the sink and the trap. Both pipes have to be hydro jetted on a yearly basis. In terms of the system, it must be emptied and serviced every 2-3 months. However, it is important to note that they must be cleared every 2-3 weeks, depending on the size and usage depth of your system. Make sure to check the guidelines offered from your city and make use of their assistance to understand when to make use of services.
- Daily Disposal and Recycling:
These two functions must be responsibly managed and an efficient practice established in logging the activities. This will allow for an informed approach to receipts for all services. It will further allow for an efficient system to form. - Enzyme Drip Systems:
Such systems may be installed to assist in grease dissipation prior to its entry in the city sewer systems. Grease and drain treatment systems such as these are made to digest the organics and grease found. Think of it this way; drip systems are made use to improve drain lines and wastewater systems the same way people make use of probiotics for digestive efficiency. As the leading drain camera manufacturer, we possess expert knowledge concerning processes to help you solve your problems in relation to plumbing issues. Our drain scan can assist with prevention, maintenance, and advisement and can meet you where you choose. Make sure to have your sewer inspected to ensure there are no root intrusions, breaks, or erosion. - Schedule Drainage Camera Inspections to Monitor Grease Clogs:
A simple phone call can provide solutions to your grease-filled troubles. Your first stop is Scanprobe for a drainage camera inspection of the sewer to check its line condition should there be any backups or clog. Scanprobe also ensures that your private sewer is kept free from oil build-up and grease that escapes from the trap. In addition, Scanprobe is present to assist you in retrofitting access points and sewer cleanout fittings in the sewer line to make a clearing, cleaning, and inspecting your line easier than before. It is vital to understand that where private sewer systems are not properly maintained, the clogs may cause the public sewer system of the region to become negatively impacted over the course of time.
Thus, invest in the services mentioned and contact Scanprobe in order to provide you with an easy inspection, which will provide a vivid image of the problem being faced and how best to fix it.
Drain surveys: Can I do them myself?
Did you recently move into a new house and just want to check it out, or is poor drainage bothering you, and you’re not sure what the problem is? If yes, try hiring someone to carry out a CCTV survey of your property drains. This survey will enable you to identify your drains need repairing or blocking.
Usually, these types of surveys are carried out before people move into a new property. During the survey, a professional camera engineer is tasked with conducting a full drain survey in one day, inspecting every pipe and drain, letting you know if there are any repairs that may be required to prevent blockages in the future. During the survey, minor blockages can be removed, the cost of which will be added up in the final receipt.
Drain surveys: Things to consider
Drain surveys can be quite useful in identifying any blockages and determining the condition of your existing pipework. Often, these surveys are used to diagnose drains that keep blocking, even after a pressure wash cleaned them. The most prevalent drain problems that cause blockages are collapsed or cracked pipes, which are, in turn, caused by tree roots, deterioration of the materials, or by other accidental excavation.
In the past, CCTV inspections were quite costly. However, in recent years, the cost of this technology has come down significantly. So, be wary of over-the-top survey prices; even a large drainage system shouldn’t cost more than a few hundred points, with the average cost being far less.
Precisely check what’s included in the prices. Some firms will clear minor blockages during the survey without charging anything extra, whereas others will charge additional. So, when you’re comparing quotes, ensure that you’re doing it right.
Can I do the drain survey myself?
A drain survey is an excellent way of locating any problems and checking out your drainage system. So, you may be wondering that you could perform a drain scan yourself instead of using a professional service, thereby saving a lot of cash. But is it worth it? First of all, these surveys aren’t expensive to start with, usually costing less than a hundred pounds, so you’re not saving a fortune. Secondly, professionals will be fully equipped with drain rods and industrial standard cameras, when doing such a survey, you’ll likely have to hire or purchase this equipment to tackle the survey.
Then you require the experience to identify the problem after fully understanding the footage. Also, jetting equipment to get rid of any small debris you come across. While you could purchase the equipment on eBay and hope for the best, cheap setups are likely to malfunction or break, ending up as a big waste of money and time.
Also, you need to know how to use drainage rods properly otherwise you could even potentially end up leaving equipment in your drain, causing extra blockages for which you’ll have to pay an expert to get rid of. So it’s not that uncommon, and possible, for DIY drainage jobs to end up costing more money than hiring the experts in to do the job in the first place.
Drain survey tips
- In recent years, the cost of CCTV surveys has dropped substantially
- It’s not worth tackling this as a DIY job
- Many firms will remove minor blockages and debris as part of the survey
- Before purchasing old property, it’s a good idea to have a drain scan carried out
If you’re looking for a drainage camera or a drain camera manufacturer, don’t worry, Scanprobe has got you covered. Contact us now, and one of our friendly customer service representatives will be glad to assist you.
Your basic guide to a drain scan
To sustain and prolong the condition of your drains, it is important to be aware of what’s happening inside your pipes. A drain scan is the best way to do it.
What’s a drain scan?
In simple words, a drain scan is a detailed inspection of your drainage system using high-tech cameras that are inserted into your drains. These drainage cameras send real-time feedback, letting your drainage engineer gets a good look into your drains to identify any issues.
Why and when would a scan be required?
In any situation, drain scans are an indispensable tool. For instance, before purchasing a new home, a pre-purchase drain scan may be arranged. The scan will generate an accurate review of the present condition of the drainage system of the property and will offer an overview of any potential repairs in the future. The scan offers buyers the chance to make a fully-informed decision before signing any contract.Tenants or homeowners may also require a drain scan when they face ongoing or one-off drainage issues. A scan may discover the root cause of a problem, so they’re vital if you’re experiencing drain troubles but have little idea why.
What equipment is used?
During the scan, the following equipment may be used:
- Access rods: They are known for their flexibility, and are used to push the cameras along your drainage system, assisting them in navigating corners and tight turns.
- Crawlers: The remote-operated crawlers are utilised to offer quick visual access to sewer systems, offering exceptional quality even in obstructed pipes.
- Sonar units: These scans are reserved for filled pipes, offering acoustic profiling to acquire insight into the condition of the pipe where visual access is impeded.
- Drainage camera: This state-of-the-art drainage camera must operate in tight spaces and under flowing water. It offers engineers with a clear view of your drains, including areas that would be impossible to see otherwise.
What will a scan find?
The short answer is, it’ll cover any drainage issue you could possibly have.
Drain scans are designed to deliver a thorough, extensive review of your drainage system. They can assist you in identifying minor and major issues alike. From fatbergs to structural damage, whatever the problem with your drains, a drain scan should be able to identify and locate it. A drain scan can help to identify:
- Animal intrusion
- Blockages
- Causes and extent of bursts/leaks in pipes
- Collapsed drains
- Evidence of poor installation or displacement
- Tree root ingress
- Wear, tear, and corrosion
While a drain scan has a ton of advantages, being able to respond to current issues and plan ahead to prevent future ones is its main offering. In the long run, this assists in saving you money – and a bit of frustration too.