Fiber-optic Cameras
Fiber-optic Cameras | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Reliance
At HEP in Reliance, we thread ultra-slim fiber-optic cameras through your plumbing to deliver a crystal-clear, real-time view of what’s happening beneath your floors and yard. This non-invasive technology lets our licensed technicians pinpoint hairline cracks, root intrusions, and mysterious blockages without the guesswork—or the mess—of traditional excavation.
Whether you’re noticing slow drains or sudden backups, our video inspections uncover main line issues before they escalate into costly water damage or emergency repairs. Count on HEP to spot trouble early, explain your options plainly, and restore your pipes to peak flow with minimal disruption.
FAQs
What is a fiber-optic camera inspection and why is it important for my main sewer line?
A fiber-optic camera inspection involves feeding a waterproof, high-resolution camera attached to a flexible cable through a clean-out or other access point in your sewer main. The live video lets our licensed technician see the exact interior condition of the pipe in real time, locating blockages, cracks, offsets, or root intrusions with pinpoint accuracy. Because the process is non-invasive, it eliminates guesswork, avoids unnecessary digging, and provides the information needed to choose the most effective repair or maintenance solution—saving you time and money.
What types of problems can a fiber-optic camera detect in the main line?
Our cameras can identify virtually any defect inside a sewer pipe, including grease or sludge buildup, collapsed sections, separated joints, bellies (low spots that hold water), broken or corroded pipe walls, misaligned or sagging pipes, tree-root penetration, foreign objects, and even improper slope or grade. We can also verify the pipe material and diameter, spot illegal connections, and confirm whether previous repairs have fully resolved an issue.
Will the inspection require digging up my yard or breaking concrete?
No. A camera inspection is completely trenchless. We access the line through an existing clean-out, roof vent, or toilet flange. The cable is about the thickness of your little finger and is gentle on pipes, so no excavation, wall cutting, or slab breaking is necessary. Only if the video reveals a defect that must be repaired would digging be considered, and even then we can often recommend trenchless repair options.
How long does a typical main line camera inspection take, and what happens afterward?
An average residential main-line inspection takes 30–60 minutes from setup to wrap-up, depending on pipe length and accessibility. Commercial or larger properties may take longer. As we advance the camera, we record video, capture still images, and mark the depth and location of any issues. Immediately afterward we review the footage with you on-site, explain our findings, and provide a digital link or USB copy of the recording along with a written report and repair or maintenance recommendations.
How should I prepare my home or business for a camera inspection appointment?
Very little preparation is required. Please: 1) Make sure we have clear access to the clean-out, roof vent, or lowest toilet; 2) Avoid running water or flushing toilets 30 minutes before we arrive so the line is as clear as possible; 3) If you suspect a major blockage, let us know in advance—light snaking may be needed first to allow the camera to pass. Pets should be secured, and for commercial sites we appreciate notification of any special safety protocols.
How much does a main line camera inspection cost with Reliance, and will I get a recording/report?
Our standard residential main-line camera inspection starts at $249, which includes the technician’s time, full HD video recording, on-site consultation, and a detailed digital report with still images and repair estimates if needed. Pricing for longer or commercial lines is quoted up front after we verify pipe length and access points. Every customer receives a downloadable video link or USB drive at no extra charge, so you have permanent documentation for insurance claims, real-estate disclosures, or second opinions.