Answering Common Questions About Sewer Video Inspection Services

Inspection camera examining drainage system with display screen and controls, part of Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service.

Everything to Know About Sewer Camera Inspection

Since so much of a plumbing system is hidden, it can be hard to know when something goes wrong. While plumbers can diagnose problems based on the symptoms of those problems, this can only go so far in some instances. When the plumbing issue is somewhere that’s hard to get to, like underground, a sewer line video inspection can be the best way to get eyes on the potential issue before developing a plan to fix it. So read on for answers to the three most common sewer video inspection questions. 

What Does a Sewer Camera Inspection Entail?

camera inspectionSince a home’s sewer line is buried under the ground, plumbers will use special cameras to view the sewer line for potential issues. These cameras are attached to a flexible yet stiff cable that can be snaked into the sewer line. With the camera down in the sewer line, the plumber can watch on a monitor to see the inside of the sewer pipe. They can also control the camera, turning it to inspect certain areas of the pipe. 

Why Get a Sewer Video Inspection?

A sewer video inspection isn’t appropriate for all plumbing issues. The word “sewer” is pretty telling. This is because this plumbing inspection is most often done to diagnose problems on the sewer line. So homeowners who think they might have a leak or a backed-up kitchen sink probably won’t need a camera inspection under most circumstances. So, what are the signs that the one might need a sewer video inspection?

The most common signs that it’s time for a sewer video inspection involve how a sewer line can affect the home’s drains. If multiple drains in the house are acting up, making noise, or draining slowly, it’s likely a sewer line issue. Likewise, a sewer line inspection could be warranted if dark-colored and foul-smelling water is backing up in the drains. Finally, if there are soggy or overly green patches of grass in the yard — and if there’s a foul smell around them — it could indicate a sewage leak. 

How Does a Sewer Video Inspection Help?

tree roots Not too long ago, sewer line inspections were highly invasive. Plumbers had to diagnose the problem without seeing it and then dig up the sewer line to fix it. Not only was this an expensive prospect, but it was also highly destructive to the property. With a sewer camera inspection, this is a thing of the past. Even certain sewer line replacements can be done with minimal invasiveness, thanks to modern plumbing advances

Sewer line camera inspections can help locate things like roots intruding into the sewer line, causing an obstruction. They can also locate severe leaks, sewer line clogs, and breaks in the pipe due to ground shifting. Additionally, many camera video inspection systems have GPS capabilities, which can help plumbers locate the entire length of the sewer line. So, homeowners experiencing issues with their home’s drains could benefit from a professional sewer video inspection. 

About Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service

Bud’s Plumbing & Repair Service has served Evansville, IN, since 1920! They are the only Evansville company to offer upfront pricing, eliminating expensive surprises for homeowners when the job is done. They guarantee peace of mind and complete satisfaction. Call them today for sewer line inspection and repair in Evansville, IN.

Common Water Heater Problems and How To Avoid Them This Winter

Tips To Avoid Water Heater Disasters

Water heaters are an essential appliance to have in any household during the cold season. No one likes the feeling of taking a cold bath in the winter, and that's why it is crucial to ensure that these units function properly before the cold season begins. This article highlights some of the most common signs of a faulty water heater that should prompt homeowners to contact a water heater installation expert immediately. 

The Hot Water Heater Has Low Pressure

Low hot water pressure is usually one of the most common signs of a faulty water heater. There are different reasons why a water heater may not have enough pressure, including: 

It is not easy to tell the exact reason for low hot water pressure by observing with the naked eye. It takes a professional plumber's intervention to perform a complete diagnosis of the plumbing system to establish the exact reason for the low hot water pressure. 

Strange Sounds Coming From the Hot Water Heater ear

Most home appliances make strange sounds when they are nearing the end of their lives, and the same case applies to water heaters. A typical heater should not be noisy, except for the hissing sound of running water. Any other unusual sound should not be ignored, given that it could be a sign of an underlying problem.

Upon detecting such sounds, especially when they occur repeatedly, homeowners should contact a professional plumbing service as soon as possible. This is the surest way to have the problem checked and fixed before the cold season begins. 

The Water Temperature Is Inconsistent 

The temperature of a water heater should be constant and in accordance with the homeowner's preferred settings. Some believe that the availability of excessively hot water is a sign that the water heater is functioning properly. However, this is not usually true; water heaters should attain a specific temperature constantly.

A sudden and frequent change in hot water temperature is a major red flag that needs a professional plumber's immediate attention. Water heaters that release boiling water can be dangerous to homeowners due to the risks of burns. On the other hand, it is disappointing to take a cold shower in the winter because the water heater cannot maintain a steady temperature. 

shower

These are just some of the most common signs of a faulty water heater that homeowners should bear in mind. While it is possible to fix some of the problems mentioned above without a professional plumber's intervention, there is always the possibility of accidents, undesired results, and damages. This explains why it is always advisable to get in touch with a licensed plumbing company specializing in water heater installation and repair. 

About Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service 

Founded in 1920, Bud's Plumbing & Repair Service provides cost-effective solutions and accurate diagnosis for its customers in Evansville, IN. The company also specializes in water heater installation in at least nine cities within the state. Call now for water heater services!