Drain blockages can ruin any day. Dealing with them on holidays or before going to work is especially annoying. But you can avoid such unpleasant surprises by ensuring routine maintenance for your drainage system. Even after knowing this well, many tend to neglect it, inviting unnecessary plumbing issues. Stubborn drain clogs, sewer backup, and tree root intrusions are a few to name.
One effective drain management technique that every homeowner should consider is CCTV Drain Inspection. It is exactly what it sounds like — Inspecting drains using CCTV technology. Interestingly, it is not only useful in solving problems but also in preventing them from arising at all.
Let’s see how:
Why is CCTV Drain Inspection Essential?
1. Mapping Pipe Systems
Some plumbing systems become complex over time because of new additions and multiple reconfigurations. If these changes are undocumented, it can cause issues later on. In this case, experts suggest CCTV drain inspection for mapping the entire system. It defines aspects such as:
- Flow variables
- Sewer depths
- Bend angles
- Pipes condition
- Location of inlets and outlets
By meticulously documenting comprehensive information like this, you will pinpoint solutions with ease and efficiency.
2. Ending Recurring Drainage Issues
Plumbing issues, no matter how small, are frustrating. From a trivial clog to a terrible sewer backup, each issue comes with a set of challenges. But a well-executed CCTV drain inspection can put an end to these problems.
For example, imagine you have a drain clog at home. Without realising its root cause, you have been using chemical drain cleaners regularly. However, it doesn’t solve the problem completely; hence, the issue occurs over and over again. So, it is worthwhile to consider hiring a professional and finding the underlying cause.
3. Fixing Foul-smelling, Slow Drainages
Smelly drains indicate partial blockages, which eventually cause slow drainage. Common culprits include organic buildup, structural damage, or debris. Each of these issues call for a different course of action, so finding the exact cause is important.
Having a CCTV drainage inspection at this point can help you pinpoint the exact location of the block or buildup. It allows you to tailor better-targeted repairs and maintenance. With such a clear-cut vision, you will also save a lot of money, time, and effort.
4. For Functional Rented Properties
Sometimes, irresponsible tenants dispose of impermissible items in the toilets, sinks, and other drains. Q-tips, sanitary products, and tissues are some of the common waste. While this may sound insignificant, the eventual damage they cause is not. To prevent such practices in your rented properties, you can schedule regular CCTV drain inspections. This protects you from costly repairs and replacements.
5. Detecting Root Intrusions
Not all blockages are caused by waste buildup. One of those varied causes is tree root intrusion. It means the roots of the trees in your backyard invade your pipes, seeking water and moisture. As they grow inside the pipes, they cause blocks and structural damage. This is a much more serious cause than any other, so experts always rule this out first when they hear drain blocks.
CCTV drain inspection is an incredibly helpful tool in this case. It slips down your drains and finds the exact area of the intrusion, increasing the accuracy of repairs.
6. Avoiding Structural Instability
Have you observed any changes in your building’s structure? Examples: Cracks in walls, noticeable tilting, or doors getting difficult to open. These signs often indicate potential issues with the building’s foundation. One of the things that may be causing this is the leaking water underneath the structure.
If a building has a damaged and leaking pipe, it will gradually soften the ground and lead to soil erosion. This will cause the foundation to shift or settle unevenly. Addressing such foundational problems can be extremely expensive if the water damage is not controlled immediately.
By conducting a CCTV drain inspection, you can identify the leaking areas quickly and repair them in time. If your building is old, it is also worth considering regular drain inspections.
7. Statutory Compliance
Every country, including Australia, has certain standards for the installation and maintenance of drainage systems. Compliance with these rules is crucial to avoid flooding, pollution, and damage to public property. Any failure can lead to legal and financial consequences.
CCTV drain inspection can also be of great help here. It allows for a thorough examination and documentation of your drainage system, ensuring prompt repairs and compliance with statutory requirements.
8. Renovation, Selling, or Buying
Every house goes through three phases: Buying, Selling, and Renovating. If you are at any of these stages, consider getting a quick CCTV camera inspection. It is not only a maintenance tool but can also be a handy marketing tool.
If you are buying or selling, having a full pipe survey can help you attract the right parties to do business with. Similarly, it can also be useful during renovations. Whether you want to build a pool or demolish a wall, this survey will give you detailed insight into your plumbing infrastructure.
What to Expect with a CCTV Drain Inspection?
Before you go ahead with a CCTV inspection, make sure you know what to expect and what not to expect from it. Knowing the real scope of the procedure can help you easily come to a decision.
First, the features:
- A non-invasive technique
- Captures real-time footage
- Zero disturbance to your daily activities
- Detailed report with findings and recommendations.
Next, the limitations:
- Not a repair but a diagnosis.
- Strictly confined to plumbing (not related to structural or electrical)
Final Word:
In our experience, drainage maintenance should never be taken lightly. Any underlying issue may quickly escalate into a full-blown emergency. So, give us a call if you have any drainage-related issues or any other plumbing needs.
Regular CCTV inspection can prevent many unwanted and unexpected plumbing emergencies, as it detects problems early on and enables quick resolution. Moreover, this approach will help you stay within budget rather than waking up to an unplanned bill after a crisis.
Considering all that’s said, the best thing you can do for your plumbing is a CCTV drain inspection. Book your appointment with Your Local Plumbing whenever you are ready.
The post 8 Reasons Every Home Should Get CCTV Drain Inspection appeared first on Your Local Plumbing & Drainage.