Your home’s sewer line plays a vital role in keeping your household running smoothly. When it’s working properly, it’s easy to take for granted. But when issues arise, they can quickly become messy, costly, and disruptive. The question many homeowners ask is, “Should I do a sewer scope?” The answer often lies in the signs your home is giving you.
A sewer scope is a simple, non-invasive inspection that uses a camera to examine the condition of your sewer line. It can reveal blockages, cracks, root intrusion, and other issues before they turn into major problems. In this blog, we’ll explore the signs that indicate you should schedule a sewer scope.
What is a Sewer Scope?
A sewer scope inspection involves inserting a small, high-resolution camera into your sewer line to visually inspect the pipe’s interior. This allows professionals to identify damage, clogs, or other problems in your sewer line. The process is quick, efficient, and doesn’t require digging up your yard.
Signs You Should Do a Sewer Scope
If you’re asking, “Should I do a sewer scope?”, look out for these common warning signs:
1. Slow Drains Throughout Your Home
If water is draining slowly in multiple areas of your home—such as sinks, showers, and bathtubs—it may indicate a problem with your main sewer line. Slow drainage is often caused by a blockage or buildup that a sewer scope can identify and help resolve.
2. Frequent Backups
Occasional clogs are normal, but frequent backups in toilets, sinks, or tubs are a red flag. These recurring issues may mean there’s a blockage, root intrusion, or other damage in your sewer line that needs professional attention.
3. Foul Odors
If you notice persistent sewer smells in your home or yard, it could indicate a leak or blockage in your sewer line. A sewer scope can help locate the source of the smell and determine the best course of action.
4. Gurgling Sounds in Drains
Strange gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from your drains or toilets can be a sign of air trapped in your pipes due to a blockage. This is often an early indicator of a larger problem in the sewer line.
5. Unexplained Wet Spots in Your Yard
If your yard has soggy or unusually green areas—especially near the path of your sewer line—it could mean there’s a leak or break in the pipe. A sewer scope can confirm if this is the case and pinpoint the location of the issue.
6. Older Home or Aging Pipes
If your home is more than 30 years old, your sewer line may be made of outdated materials like clay or cast iron, which are prone to corrosion and cracking. Scheduling a sewer scope is a smart way to check the health of your pipes and plan for future maintenance.
7. High Water Bills
An unexplained spike in your water bill could indicate a leak in your sewer or water line. A sewer scope inspection can rule out issues in the main sewer line, helping you pinpoint the cause of the problem.
8. Before Major Renovations or Landscaping
If you’re planning a major home renovation or landscaping project, it’s a good idea to scope your sewer line first. This ensures there are no underlying issues that could be affected by construction or digging.
Benefits of Doing a Sewer Scope
If you’re still wondering, “Should I do a sewer scope?”, consider these benefits:
- Early Problem Detection: Catching issues early can save you from costly repairs down the line.
- Non-Invasive: A sewer scope is a quick, non-invasive process that doesn’t require digging.
- Cost-Effective: Addressing minor issues found during a scope is far less expensive than dealing with a major sewer line failure.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing the condition of your sewer line helps you avoid unpleasant surprises.
When Should You Do a Sewer Scope?
In addition to watching for the signs mentioned above, there are specific situations when a sewer scope is especially important:
- When Buying a Home: A sewer scope is an essential part of the inspection process for older homes. It ensures you’re not inheriting a costly sewer line issue from the previous owner.
- After a Major Clog or Backup: If you’ve recently had a serious clog or backup, a sewer scope can confirm that the problem has been fully resolved.
- As Routine Maintenance: Scheduling a sewer scope every few years is a smart preventative measure to ensure your sewer line stays in good condition.
What Happens During a Sewer Scope?
A sewer scope inspection is a straightforward process:
- Access the Line: The technician will locate a cleanout or other access point to insert the camera.
- Inspect the Pipe: A high-resolution camera is fed into the sewer line, capturing real-time footage of the pipe’s interior.
- Identify Issues: The footage is reviewed to identify damage, blockages, or other problems.
- Report Findings: You’ll receive a detailed report and recommendations for any necessary repairs or maintenance.
Trust Dan’s Drains & Digs for Sewer Scope Inspections
At Dan’s Drains & Digs, we specialize in sewer scope inspections to help homeowners identify and resolve sewer line issues. If you’re seeing any of the signs above or simply want peace of mind about the condition of your sewer line, we’re here to help.
Should I Do a Sewer Scope? The Answer is Yes!
If you’re noticing slow drains, backups, or any of the other warning signs, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. A sewer scope is a quick, affordable, and effective way to ensure your sewer line is functioning properly.
Contact Dan’s Drains & Digs today to schedule your sewer scope inspection and keep your home running smoothly!
