A Closer Look at Sewer Line Inspections: How to Identify Plumbing Issues

Tom Sawyer • August 9, 2023
Sewer Line Inspection

Plumbing issues can be a nightmare for homeowners and businesses alike, causing disruption, damage, and costly repairs. One of the most critical components of any plumbing system is the sewer line. This underground pipe carries waste from the property to the main sewage system, ensuring proper sanitation and hygiene. 


A damaged or clogged sewer line can lead to severe and expensive complications. With that in mind, it’s worth discussing the importance of regular sewer line inspections and how they can help to identify and prevent future problems.


Maintaining a functioning and efficient sewer line is essential for the overall health of your plumbing system. No one wants to deal with the consequences of a broken or clogged sewer line, which can include foul odors, sewage backups, or even significant damage to your property. Regular sewer line inspections minimize these risks by detecting potential issues before they can escalate.


Sewer line inspections utilize state-of-the-art technology to provide a detailed view of the condition of your pipes. A skilled technician will insert a high-resolution camera attached to a flexible rod into your sewer line, allowing them to see the inner workings of your pipes and identify any issues. The inspection will check for obstructions, cracks, root intrusion, and other signs of damage that may impair the pipe's functionality.


By investing in a professional sewer line inspection, you are taking a proactive approach to maintaining your plumbing system. The information gathered from the inspection will help both homeowners and businesses make informed decisions about whether repairs or replacements are needed. 


At Apollo Sewer & Plumbing, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy and functional plumbing system for your property. With our expert team and state-of-the-art equipment, we offer comprehensive sewer line inspections that will give you peace of mind knowing your system is in good hands.


Keep reading to learn more about the steps involved in a sewer line inspection, the potential issues that can be uncovered, and the solutions available to address them.

The Sewer Line Inspection Process

A thorough sewer line inspection involves several steps to ensure that any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly. Below, we outline the process you can expect when scheduling a service with a professional plumbing company like Apollo Sewer & Plumbing.


1. Scheduling an Inspection

The first stage of the process is to schedule a convenient date and time for your sewer line inspection. A qualified technician will arrive promptly and begin an initial assessment of your plumbing system to locate the access point for the sewer line. This service can be performed as part of routine maintenance or as a response to specific problems you may be experiencing.


2. Setting Up the Equipment

Upon arrival, the technician will set up the necessary equipment for the inspection. This typically includes a high-resolution camera attached to a flexible rod, which is specifically designed to navigate through your sewer pipes. The technician may also bring additional tools and equipment to address any issues that may be discovered during the inspection process.


3. Conducting the Camera Inspection

Once the equipment is set up, the technician will carefully insert the camera into the sewer line. As it travels through the pipes, the camera will send real-time footage back to a monitor, allowing the technician to inspect the condition of your sewer line from the inside.


The camera inspection will reveal any obstructions, cracks, roots, or other issues that may be affecting the functionality of your plumbing system. The technician will carefully document these findings, making note of the specific location and severity of any problems.


4. Analyzing the Results and Discussing Potential Solutions

After the camera inspection is complete, the technician will review the findings with you and discuss potential solutions to address any issues that were discovered. This may include recommending repairs, maintenance, or even a sewer line replacement, depending on the severity of the problems found in the pipes.


Depending on the specific circumstances, a follow-up appointment may be necessary if further excavations or repairs are needed. In any case, a reputable plumbing company like Apollo Sewer & Plumbing will ensure that you are kept informed of your options and any necessary next steps.

Common Sewer Line Problems and Their Solutions

Sewer line inspections are designed to uncover a variety of potential issues that can affect the performance and longevity of your plumbing system. Here are some common problems that inspections can reveal, along with the recommended solutions to address them:


1. Clogs and Blockages

Over time, debris such as grease, hair, and other waste can accumulate in your sewer line, leading to clogs and blockages that can disrupt the flow of wastewater. During the inspection, the technician can locate the specific point of the blockage, helping to determine the most effective method of removal. In many cases, a professional can employ powerful tools like hydro jets to clear out the buildup and restore proper flow in your pipes.


2. Tree Root Intrusion

Roots from nearby trees can infiltrate your sewer line, causing blockages and cracks in the pipe. If discovered during the inspection, the technician can use specialized equipment to remove the roots and repair any damage they may have caused. In more severe cases, a partial or complete sewer line replacement may be necessary to resolve the issue completely.


3. Cracks and Breaks

Aging or damaged pipes can develop cracks and breaks, which can lead to leaks and weaker areas in your sewer line. If a camera inspection reveals these flaws, your technician may recommend a pipe repair or replacement, depending on the severity and location of the problem. Modern trenchless technology can often be employed for these repairs, minimizing the need for disruptive excavation.


4. Collapsed or Sagging Pipes

Over time, pipes can shift, leading to collapsed or sagging areas in your sewer line that can disrupt the flow of wastewater. An inspection is essential for identifying these issues, and the necessary repairs may include repositioning or replacing the affected pipe sections.

The Importance of Sewer Line Inspections

Investing in regular sewer line inspections is essential for maintaining the overall health and functionality of your plumbing system. These thorough assessments not only help to identify potential issues before they escalate, but they also provide valuable insights into the condition of your sewer line and the steps necessary to ensure its longevity.


At Apollo Sewer & Plumbing, we pride ourselves on our commitment to customer satisfaction, providing comprehensive plumbing and sewer-related services in the Keyport, NJ area. Our skilled technicians are equipped with the tools and knowledge to perform thorough inspections and recommend the best course of action for any issues discovered.


By scheduling regular sewer line inspections, you can extend the life of your plumbing system, minimize the risk of costly emergencies, and maintain a comfortable, sanitary environment for your property. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our range of plumbing services.

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