Think about the last time you had a clogged drain.

How frustrating it was to not be able to see, with your own eyes, what was causing the backup?. Unfortunately, this is a common household problem, but innovative video technology is making it easy for homeowners and plumbers to get a close-up view of pesky clogs, even clogs that are yards and yards down a sewer line. These special, waterproof snake cameras allow for real time visual inspection of underground sewer lines and other drainpipes to determine conditions on the inside of the pipe that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to see. The cameras take the guess work out of the sewer diagnosis and provide you, the homeowner, with reassurance that the problem is being properly identified and addressed.

The process begins with a Roto-Rooter professional inserting a flexible cable with a high-resolution camera on its tip into the pipe for inspection. The camera then transmits video images to the camera operator who views the video image on a TV monitor right along with you. Radio transmitters on the camera record the depth and physical location from the surface so that obstructions and defects can be quickly found and corrected efficiently and cost effectively. As an added bonus to the homeowner, this process can be repeated after repairs so you can be assured that the problem was solved.

Common drain problems discovered using this technology include root intrusion, obstructions caused by grease or other buildup, and broken or corroded pipes. Believe it or not,

Roto-Rooter plumbers have also used video camera snakes to locate lost valuables and even remove trapped animals from pipes and sewer drains. This inspection technique is also highly useful for potential new home purchasers to ensure that sewer lines are free of problems that could require expensive repairs after you move in.

Next time you drop a beloved valuable down the drain or suspect an obstruction in your pipes, contact Roto-Rooter for an accurate diagnosis.