Video Inspection Gear
Video Inspection Gear | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Monterey
Whether you’re a longtime Monterey resident or new to the peninsula’s historic charm, you know that plumbing surprises can dampen the view. HEP’s technicians arrive with state-of-the-art video inspection gear, snaking ultra-clear cameras through every line to pinpoint breaks, roots, and buildup without tearing up your landscape. The moment we locate the trouble spot, our crew shifts seamlessly into drain opening mode, using precision tools to flush away debris and restore full flow faster than traditional methods.
Choosing HEP means more than a quick fix; it’s a proactive partnership. With every inspection you receive a high-resolution recording and expert recommendations, so you can make informed decisions about maintenance before minor clogs become major emergencies. Trust our courteous, locally based team to protect your home, your time, and Monterey’s fragile coastal environment—one clear, free-flowing pipe at a time.
FAQs
What is a video pipe inspection and how does it improve drain-opening services?
A video pipe inspection uses a high-resolution, waterproof camera attached to a flexible push rod. Our technician feeds the camera through cleanouts or existing openings, transmitting live footage to a monitor topside. This allows us to see exactly what is blocking or damaging the drain—roots, grease, scale, foreign objects—so we can choose the most effective clearing method (snaking, hydro-jetting, sectional repair). By pinpointing the problem, we avoid unnecessary digging, shorten service time, and ensure the line is completely open before we leave your Monterey property.
When should I request a camera inspection instead of a standard drain cleaning?
We recommend video inspection when: • Drains back up repeatedly within weeks or months. • Multiple fixtures (e.g., kitchen sink and bathtub) clog at the same time, suggesting a main-line issue. • You suspect root intrusion from Monterey’s mature trees. • You’re buying or remodeling a home and need to confirm pipe condition before closing walls or pouring slabs. • There’s a sudden spike in water bills or foul odors without an obvious leak. A quick look with the camera identifies the exact cause, preventing guesswork and repeated service calls.
Will the camera or drain-opening equipment damage my pipes, landscaping, or driveway?
No. The inspection camera is small, self-lubricating, and designed to glide through 1½-inch to 6-inch lines without scraping pipe walls. We access the line through existing cleanouts or indoor fixtures, so there is no trenching or demolition. If the drain must be opened, we use the least invasive method first (cable snaking) and escalate to hydro-jetting only if necessary. Your landscaping, driveway, and finished surfaces stay intact.
How long does a typical video inspection and drain clearing service take?
Most residential jobs in Monterey take 60–90 minutes start to finish. The inspection itself usually lasts 15–30 minutes, depending on pipe length and number of turns. If we locate a blockage, snaking may add 20–30 minutes; hydro-jetting or spot repairs can add another 30–60 minutes. We provide a time estimate after seeing the initial footage, so you know exactly how long we’ll be on-site.
Can I keep a copy of the video footage for insurance, permits, or future reference?
Absolutely. We record the entire inspection in HD and can email you a downloadable link or provide a USB drive before we leave. Many Monterey homeowners use this evidence to file root-intrusion claims, negotiate real-estate purchases, or secure city permits for repair work. We also archive the footage for one year in case you need a second copy.
What does video inspection and drain opening cost in Monterey, and what affects the price?
Basic residential video inspections start at roughly $250, which includes the first hour on-site and a digital copy of the footage. If we need to clear a blockage, cable snaking adds $100–$150, while hydro-jetting runs $300–$500 depending on pipe length and severity of buildup. Factors that can raise or lower the price include: • Line length longer than 100 ft • Limited or buried cleanout access • Multiple branch lines requiring inspection • After-hours or emergency service • Required permits for street or sidewalk access We provide upfront, flat-rate quotes before work begins, and all services come with a 30-day clear-drain guarantee.