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5 Hidden Problems a Sewer Camera Reveals Instantly
In the old days of the trade, finding a blockage was 50% skill and 50% luck. We would run a snake down the line, feel for resistance, and hope we cleared it. If we didn't, we grabbed a shovel. It was messy and inefficient. Today, fiber-optic video cameras have changed the game completely. Black Diamond Septic Pumping uses this technology to look underground and see the truth. Here are the five specific problems we can identify in minutes, saving you from paying for hours of blind digging.
First, we see the dreaded root intrusion. We don't just guess that roots are the problem; we can see the exact joint where the hair-like feeder roots have penetrated the pipe. This allows us to decide if the pipe can be cleared with a cutter or if it needs to be replaced. Second, we spot "bellies" or sags in the line. A pipe that has settled will hold water like a trap. The camera shows us the standing water and the debris collecting in the low spot, confirming that the slope is the issue, not a clog.
Third, we identify crushed or collapsed sections. Whether it was caused by a heavy truck driving over the lawn or just the ground shifting over time, the camera shows the exact point of structural failure. This precision allows for a surgical Septic Tank Repair where we only excavate the few feet of broken pipe. Fourth, we can see offset joints. As the ground freezes and thaws, pipe sections can shift, creating a "lip" that catches toilet paper and solids. The camera spots these misalignments instantly.
Finally, we find the "foreign objects." You would be amazed at what ends up in a sewer line—toys, jewelry, tools, and massive wads of grease. The camera identifies exactly what the object is, which helps us choose the right tool to retrieve it or push it through. Seeing the problem is the first step to fixing it right.
Conclusion Video camera inspections provide immediate, visual confirmation of common septic issues like root intrusion, pipe sags, and structural collapses. This technology eliminates the need for exploratory excavation, saving homeowners time and money. By identifying the exact nature and location of the problem, technicians can execute targeted repairs that solve the root cause.
Call to Action Don't pay for unnecessary digging. Call us today to schedule a camera inspection and get a clear picture of your pipe health. https://www.blackdiamondsepticpumping.com/