Inspection Cameras
Inspection Cameras | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Gatlinburg
When a mysterious clog slows your sink or backs up the basement floor, HEP’s licensed plumbers bring more than a snake and a guess—they arrive with high-definition inspection cameras that reveal every inch of your pipes. By guiding the lens through your lines, we can pinpoint intruding roots, collapsed sections, or a lost wedding ring without tearing up floors or landscaping. The moment we see the culprit on-screen, we strategize the fastest fix and restore free-flowing water with minimal disruption to your Gatlinburg home or cabin.
Pairing decades of mountain-tested experience with the latest tech means you get answers in minutes and repairs that last for years. Whether the job calls for localized pipe repair, hydro-jetting, or expert drain opening, our friendly team explains each option in plain English and backs every service with transparent pricing and a workmanship guarantee. Call HEP today and watch your plumbing problems disappear—on camera.
FAQs
What is a plumbing inspection camera and how does it help open clogged drains?
A plumbing inspection camera is a small, high-resolution video camera attached to a flexible cable. Our technicians feed it through an access point in your drain line to obtain a live, 360-degree view of the pipe’s interior. The footage pinpoints the exact location, nature, and severity of blockages—whether it’s grease buildup, tree-root intrusion, collapsed pipe, or a foreign object. Once we know what we’re dealing with, we select the most effective opening method—such as hydro-jetting, mechanical augering, or localized pipe repair—saving you time, money, and unnecessary digging.
When should I schedule a camera inspection for my Gatlinburg home or business?
Consider booking a camera inspection any time you notice slow drains, recurring backups, foul odors, or unexplained wet spots in the yard. It’s also wise to inspect pipes before buying or selling property, after a major storm, or if your building is over 20 years old and has never had a comprehensive pipe evaluation. Early detection prevents small issues from turning into expensive emergencies, especially in Gatlinburg’s mountainous terrain where pipe access can be challenging.
Is a camera inspection safe for older or fragile pipes?
Yes. The camera cable is slender, flexible, and designed to glide through cast iron, clay, PVC, and even brittle Orangeburg pipes without exerting harmful pressure. Because the process is purely observational—no chemicals or high-pressure water is used during the inspection itself—there’s virtually no risk of damage. In fact, identifying weak spots early helps us reinforce or replace aging sections before they fail.
How long does a typical camera inspection and drain opening service take?
Most residential jobs in Gatlinburg are completed in 60–90 minutes. That includes setup, a full-length video scan, blockage removal (using the appropriate method), and a post-service confirmation scan to prove the line is clear. Larger commercial systems or severe root intrusions can take two to four hours, but same-day service is the norm.
What kinds of problems can your cameras detect that traditional drain snakes might miss?
While a conventional snake can sometimes push through clogs, it can’t show you what’s happening inside the pipe. Our HD cameras reveal cracks, offsets, corrosion, sagging (bellies), joint separations, invasive roots, grease congestion, and even lost items like jewelry. By seeing the exact issue, we avoid guesswork, reduce repeat visits, and recommend targeted, long-lasting solutions.
How much does a camera inspection and drain opening cost in Gatlinburg?
For most single-family homes, prices start at $249, which includes the initial camera survey, clog location, and basic mechanical drain opening. If hydro-jetting, root cutting, or extensive descaling is required, costs range from $350 to $650, depending on pipe length and severity. We provide upfront, written estimates before any work begins, and all services come with a 30-day clear-drain guarantee.