Simple tips for Choosing the Right Sewer Inspection Camera
Sewer inspection camera is an extremely important tool used extensively by contractors, plumbers, home inspectors, municipal workers, engineers, and other professionals to inspect areas that are not easy to see. These areas include pipeline interiors, inside a drain, spaces behind walls, and other hard-to-reach places.
If you are planning to purchase a sewer inspection camera, the first thing you need to consider is the purpose of its use. This will help you understand whether the camera should be water- and chemicals-proof, length of the insertion probe, etc. We have summarised below some general guidelines for choosing a good sewer CCTV. However, please remember that you will have to ultimately take a call based on your budget and specific requirements.
Camera:
- Illumination: As sewer cameras are used to inspect areas that are hard-to-see, enough light is required for their proper use. The image is always better for light sources that are brighter. This is why you should look for inspection cameras equipped with bright LED lights that are adjustable.
- Type of head: It is true that cameras with standard heads are cheaper. However, cameras with features such as pan/tilt and self-levelling allow users to go around corners, and see behind the walls or the sides of a pipeline.
- Material: In order to ensure durability, your sewer camera should at least be water-proof. This is why cameras with stainless steel housing are highly recommended.
Insertion Probe:
-
- Length: Always make sure that your insertion probe is long enough to reach one manhole from another. In general, the length of these probes varies between 20 and 120 meters. If you need to extend it further, a reel with a stand can be used.
- Material: For most applications, PVC covered probes offer the required sturdiness. However, they can get damaged and worn out because of heavy duty inspections. Use of braided probes can make insertion probes considerably more durable.
- Longevity: You can enhance the longevity of your device by using push rods that are water and chemicals proof, and capable withstanding 1-6 bar pressure.
Monitor hub:
- Screen: The screen should be able to provide a clear picture of the inspected area. A wider screen with high resolution is always better for this purpose.
- Image Capture: Today’s advanced sewer inspection cameras are capable of capturing a wide range of file types with different resolutions. The footage from these cameras can be saved as a video in AVI or MPEG format, or simply as a JPEG file.
- Other Features: Some inspection cameras come with additional features such as keyboards for typing important details during inspection.
General Characteristics:
- It is always more convenient to use sewer inspection cameras that are lightweight and come with a comfortable grip.
- Radio transmitters located in the tip of the probe can be an excellent addition. This tool helps users locate their cameras easily. However, an accurate locator is required for locating it.
At Austeck, we have a comprehensive range of camera systems for all your sewer and drain inspection needs. Please contact us today to find the perfect match for your specific requirements.