When it comes to diagnosing plumbing issues, traditional methods often involved guesswork or invasive procedures. However, advancements in technology have resulted in plumbing camera inspections becoming a popular and effective way to identify problems within sewer lines and drains.
If you’re a homeowner in the Phoenix area and you’re wondering about the cost of a plumbing camera inspection, AHWA is here to provide you with the information you need.
What is a Plumbing Camera Inspection?
A plumbing camera inspection, also known as a sewer camera inspection or drain camera inspection, involves using a specialized camera system to inspect the interior of sewer lines and drains. This method allows plumbers to visually identify blockages, leaks, or other issues without the need for extensive digging or disruption to your property.
How Does a Plumbing Camera Inspection Work?
During a plumbing camera inspection, a small camera attached to a flexible cable is inserted into the sewer line or drain. The camera transmits real-time video footage to a monitor, allowing the plumber to see the condition of the pipes and detect any abnormalities.
This visual inspection helps the plumber determine the cause of the problem and plan the appropriate repairs. That’s what makes the question of how much does it cost to camera a sewer line difficult to answer.
There are many factors to consider, and each home is unique in this respect.
How Much Does a Sewer Camera Inspection Cost?
How much is a plumbing camera inspection, then? The cost of a plumbing camera inspection can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the complexity of the issue, and the plumbing company you choose.
On average, in Phoenix, Arizona, a plumbing camera inspection can cost between $250 and $500 but larger-scale inspections can run as high as $3,000 depending on the difficulty of accessing the system and how far the inspection will need to extend.
Keep in mind that you will also likely be looking at the costs of clearing or repairing any blockages or damages found during the inspection, which can further increase your costs. However, you can save if the inspection is done in conjunction with finding and making these repairs.
Factors Affecting the Cost of a Camera Inspection
There are several factors to be considered when determining the cost of a plumbing camera inspection, such as:
- Length of Inspection: The length of the sewer line or drain being inspected can impact the cost. Longer lines may require more time and effort, leading to a higher price.
- Accessibility: If the access points to the sewer line or drain are difficult to reach, such as under concrete or through tight spaces, it may increase the overall cost of the inspection.
- Additional Services: Some plumbing companies offer additional services along with the camera inspection, such as locating the exact position of the issue or providing a detailed report. These additional services may come at an extra cost.
- Time of Service: Emergency or after-hours inspections might be more expensive compared to regular business hours. If you require immediate assistance, be prepared for potentially higher costs.
Benefits of a Plumbing Camera Inspection
Investing in a plumbing camera inspection can provide several benefits, making the cost well worth it in the long run.
- Accurate Diagnosis: The camera footage provides a clear visual of the problem, allowing the plumber to diagnose the issue and develop an effective repair plan accurately.
- Time and Cost Savings: By pinpointing the exact location and cause of the problem, a plumbing camera inspection helps eliminate unnecessary digging or exploratory work, saving time and money on repairs.
- Preventive Maintenance: Regular camera inspections can identify potential problems before they escalate into major issues, allowing for proactive maintenance and preventing costly repairs down the line.
Lowering Costs by Bundling Services
Consider bundling services to lower the overall cost of a plumbing camera inspection. If you elect to have plumbing camera services provided as part of routine service or bundled with other repairs such as drain cleaning or replacements of damaged plumbing, you may save on some of the associated costs by not incurring additional call-out fees or receiving discounts as part of project costing.
If you are having a camera inspection done as a standalone effort, it may cost you more than it would if you incorporate it into your routine maintenance or request it as a part of a larger plumbing repair project. As with many plumbing endeavors, your costs are going to depend on not only the cost of the actual camera inspection but also the costs of correcting any problems found. So, while you may be able to determine the initial costs of your plumbing camera inspection, you’ll need to employ a reputable plumbing services provider to give you an accurate estimate for any additional services you may require.
DIY Camera Inspections
If you’re a handy homeowner looking to save money, consider a DIY camera inspection. Some plumbing companies or equipment rental companies offer camera systems for rent but they typically start around $250 per day, and that can increase greatly with whatever additional equipment you need for the job.
It’s also important to note that DIY camera inspections have limitations. They will not provide the same level of expertise and analysis as a professional inspection. Additionally, the repair costs could far outweigh the initial savings if you encounter a problem or cause additional damage to the plumbing system during the inspection.
Conclusion
A plumbing camera inspection is an invaluable tool when it comes to diagnosing plumbing problems within sewer lines and drains. In Phoenix, Arizona, the cost of a sewer camera inspection can vary greatly, depending on various factors such as the length of the inspection, accessibility, additional services, and the time of service.
However, what you spend now might save you money later; while the initial cost may seem like an investment, the benefits of accurate diagnosis, time and cost savings, and preventive maintenance make it worthwhile.
If you’re experiencing plumbing issues or want to ensure the health of your sewer system, consider scheduling a plumbing camera inspection with American Home Water and Air today.
