Plumbing problems, especially those involving drains and sewer lines, are difficult to detect from the outside. To accurately determine the location of the obstruction or the source of leaks, a sewer inspection camera must be used. Also known as an endoscope or borescope, the sewer inspection camera is a flexible instrument equipped with a long tube and a screen. An operator pushes the camera inside the sewer pipe with a cable.
With LED lights connected to the camera, everything inside the pipe becomes visible on the screen. The flexibility and image capture features of a pipe inspection camera facilitate a thorough inspection of pipes. This includes underground sewer pipes, which can be difficult to reach.
Best Sewer Camera for Drain Inspection
Table of Contents
Sewer inspection cameras are essential tools that can help detect drainage problems before they become serious. Things like grease, paper, or sagging pipes can cause drainage problems in sewers. When this happens, the cause of the problem is checked with an inspection camera.
There are many sewer inspection cameras on the market today, and it can be difficult to choose the best one. This article gives an overview of the top five sewer inspection cameras that can meet your budget and needs.
Best Sewer Camera for Drain Inspection | Comparison Table 2024
Top Quality | 5- Star Pick | Great Prices
| Image | Title | Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| HBUDS Sewer Camera with Locator, Pipe Inspection Camera with 512Hz Sonde and Receiver, IP68 Waterproof Plumbing Drain Camera Snake, Pipe Locators with 7" Color Monitor DVR Recorder (165ft Cable) | HBUDS | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Sewer Camera, 512Hz Transmitter Sonde for Pipe Location Endoscope Camera 7”LCD DVR Screen Plumbing Borescope Inspection Camera 12 LED IP68 Waterproof Lights Drain Snake Cable (8GB SD Card) (30M) | PRANITE | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Anysun Sewer Camera with Locator, 165ft Inspection Camera with 512Hz Sonde Transmitter and DVR Recorder, Pipe Plumbing Snake Camera with 7" LCD Monitor (8 GB SD Card Included) (165ft/50m) | Anysun | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Sanyipace Sewer Camera with Locator & Distance Counter, 9" LCD, 165ft Pipe Inspection Camera with 512Hz Sonde & Receiver, Pipe Locator, IP68 Waterproof Industrial Plumbing Drain Endoscope DVR, 16GB | Sanyipace | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| VEVOR Sewer Camera 98.4 FT Cable Pipeline Inspection Camera 4.3 Inch TFT LCD Monitor Pipe Camera Screen Waterproof IP68 Duct Inspection Camera with 6PCS LEDs 8500MAH Lithium Battery, DVR Function, 30M | VEVOR | VIEW ON AMAZON |
Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Best Sewer Camera for Drain Inspection | Product Overview 2024
1. HBUDS Sewer Camera
The Sewer Camera with Locator stands out as a sophisticated pipe inspection solution, equipped with a 512Hz transmitter and receiver for precise pipe location accuracy. Tailored for inspecting a range of underground and narrow environments such as sewer lines, drains, wells, chimneys, HVAC ductwork, and more, the IP68 waterproof camera ensures reliable performance.
The system’s prominent features include a 7-inch HD color monitor that delivers a clear view of the inspection area. Noteworthy attributes encompass the 512Hz transmitter in the probe tip, versatile receiver detecting modes, DVR recording functionality with a 7-inch HD color screen, and support for external SD cards up to 32GB (8GB SD card included).
Additionally, the inspection camera boasts a high-capacity rechargeable battery, providing 6-8 hours of continuous operation on a single charge. With an IP68 waterproof camera head featuring adjustable LED lights and a sturdy semi-rigid fiberglass cable, this versatile and reliable sewer camera proves invaluable for professionals in plumbing, construction, and maintenance, offering efficient and accurate inspection capabilities in challenging environments.
Product Overview:
The HBUDS Sewer Camera with Locator is a professional-grade plumbing tool designed to make inspecting sewer lines, drains, wells, and other underground environments quick and easy. This pipe inspection camera kit comes with a 512hz transmitter and receiver that helps to accurately locate pipes and pinpoint problem areas.
The upgraded receiver has two detecting modes, the far mode (Detecting Distance: 23 feet) and the near mode (Detecting Distance: 13 feet). This feature makes it an ideal tool for both small and large pipe systems.
The camera is equipped with a 7″ HD color monitor that provides a clear and sharp live image of the sewer line, making it easy to identify any issues. The underground pipe camera also has a built-in DVR recording function, allowing you to record the project or capture photos at any time and anywhere.
The video recording can be stored on an external SD card of up to 32GB (8GB SD Card Included), which can be inserted into another device for display. This makes it an ideal tool for both small and large pipe systems.
The HBUDS Sewer Camera with Locator is built to withstand harsh conditions. The camera head is IP68 waterproof, and the semi-rigid cable is made of fiberglass. The flexible camera head has 12pcs adjustable LED light, making it easy to see in low-light conditions. The underground water leak detector is suitable for straight pipes at 25mm(1 inch), bend pipes at 45mm(2 inches), and nearly 90° bend pipes at 150mm(6 inches).
The high-capacity rechargeable battery provides 6-8 hours of continuous working time on a single charge. You can also set the borescope endoscope control box to ON/AUX and connect the power adapter directly for continuous using the snake inspection camera.
- Accurately locates pipes with a 512hz transmitter and receiver.
- A 7″ HD color monitor provides clear images of sewer lines.
- The DVR recording function allows for easy capture of videos and photos.
- High-capacity rechargeable battery provides a long working time.
- IP68 waterproof camera head and sturdy cable suitable for various pipe sizes.
- Item weight of 23 pounds may make it difficult for some users to transport.
- A detection range of 23 feet may not be sufficient for larger pipe systems.
- The product is relatively new and may not have as much customer feedback as established brands.
2. PRANITE Sewer Camera
The 512Hz Locator Sewer Inspection Camera is a sophisticated system designed for efficient pipe inspections, featuring a built-in 512Hz Sonde Transmitter in the probe for precise location pinpointing using a 512Hz receiver (not included).
Its wide compatibility extends to any transmitter emitting 512Hz signals, facilitating quick issue identification in the depths. The system includes a 7-inch LCD display with a DVR unit for video and picture recording during inspections, supported by an 8GB SD card for convenient content storage and transfer.
The camera, equipped with a 100ft pushrod reel of semi-rigid cable, boasts 12 adjustable LED lights and an IP68 waterproof rating.
Powered by a rechargeable 4500mAh 12V battery, the inspection camera ensures up to 8 hours of continuous operation on a single charge, contributing to its reliability for professionals in plumbing, construction, and maintenance tasks. (Note: 512Hz Receiver Battery not included)
Product Overview:
The GRANITE Sewer Camera is a powerful tool for plumbers and other professionals who need to inspect pipes and drains. This borescope camera features a 512Hz transmitter sonde that can be used to pinpoint the location of the probe with a 512Hz receiver (not included). This feature can save time and money for professionals by making it easy to find the problem quickly.
The camera is also compatible with a wide range of other equipment, including analog receivers that can be used with any transmitter that transmits 512Hz signals. Additionally, the camera comes with a 7-inch LCD display and a built-in DVR unit, which allows you to record your videos and pictures. An 8GB SD card is also included for easy storage and transfer to your computer.
The GRANITE Sewer Camera also comes with a 100ft pushrod reel of semi-rigid cable and a probe camera with 12 adjustable LED lights. The camera has a waterproof rating of IP68 and it features a rechargeable 4500mAh 12V battery which can power the pipe inspection camera for up to 8 hours on a single charge. The manufacturer is constantly improving the functionality and quality of their products, and they strive to solve each customer's problem.
- Has a 512Hz transmitter sonde built-in the probe camera, making it easy to pinpoint the location of the probe.
- Compatible with a wide range of other equipment, including analog receivers that can be used with any transmitter that transmits 512Hz signals.
- Comes with a 7-inch LCD display and a built-in DVR unit, allowing you to record your videos and pictures.
- Equipped with a 100ft pushrod reel of semi-rigid cable and a probe camera with 12 adjustable LED lights.
- Has a waterproof rating of IP68 and a rechargeable battery that can power the pipe inspection camera for up to 8 hours on a single charge.
- 512Hz receiver is not included in the package
- The cable is made of fiberglass and can not be bent less than 90 degrees
- The battery of the 512Hz Receiver is not included
3. Anysun Sewer Camera
The sewer camera with a built-in 512Hz Sonde Transmitter is a powerful tool for professionals, equipped with features that streamline pipe inspection. The high-quality 512Hz underground wire locator simplifies the process of working with the 512Hz sonde inside the camera head, allowing accurate location of inspected areas.
This essential tool for plumbers comes with a professional 512Hz frequency detector locator, working in tandem with a receiver for quick and precise location. The HD IP68 waterproof camera with DVR recording capabilities ensures ultra-clear imagery and allows users to record projects.
With 165ft of premium-grade video cable, this sewer camera is suitable for a range of pipes and comes with a flexible probe tip for navigating bends. Economical and utility-focused, it addresses the challenges of inspecting sewer lines, drains, wells, walls, machinery, HVAC ductwork, tanks, and more.
Product Overview:
The Anysun Sewer Camera is a powerful tool for plumbers and other professionals who need to inspect pipes and drains. This borescope camera features a 512Hz built-in sonde transmitter that makes it easy to locate problems when inspecting pipeline systems. The high-quality 512Hz underground wire locator allows you to work along your 512 Hertz built-in sonde inside the probe-tip camera head and accurately locate the inspected area. A duct inspection camera is a must-have tool for any plumbers looking to ease the process of locating any problems when inspecting any pipeline system.
The package also includes a professional 512hz frequency detector locator that works with the 512hz receiver to find the location more quickly and accurately. The locator wand can be disassembled into two parts, making it ideal when traveling to different work sites. The user can choose between two modes, the far mode (Detecting depth: 23 feet) and the near mode(Detecting depth: 13 feet), depending on the strength of the 512hz signal.
The snake inspection camera uses a CCD color camera display that provides the user with ultra-clear and crisp imagery of the viewing area. The plumbing snake camera with light has adjustable LED’s also allows for fine tuning of brightness to prevent unwanted glare when viewing. Record your project with the included DVR recording to view your videos and pictures.
The heavy-duty drain camera push cable comes equipped with a fully protected carrying cage that allows for easy disbursement and recoiling. Suitable for pipes at 25 – 200mm (1 – 8 inches), the fiber optic camera probe tip has a flexible spring at the length of 4.7in/120mm, and easily goes through 90° bend pipe at 45mm (2 inches). Overall, Anysun Sewer Camera is an affordable home inspection camera that provides all the needed tools to locate any problems that may surface.
- Has a high-quality 512Hz built-in sonde transmitter that makes it easy to locate problems when inspecting pipeline systems.
- Comes with a locator and receiver that can find the location more quickly and accurately.
- Uses a CCD color camera display that provides ultra-clear and crisp imagery of the viewing area.
- Comes with 165ft of high-quality premium-grade video cable, suitable for pipes at 25 – 200mm (1 – 8 inches).
- An affordable home inspection camera that provides all the needed tools to locate any problems that may surface.
- The receiver is not included in the package
- The detecting depth is limited to 23ft in far mode, and 13ft in near mode.
- The sensitivity knob could be improved, as it is not very precise.
4. Sanyipace Sewer Camera
The Sanyipace Sewer Camera with Locator and Distance Counter is a comprehensive solution for precise pipe inspections. Equipped with a locator, it accurately pinpoints the camera probe and displays the distance on the 9-inch color LCD screen in meters/feet, eliminating guesswork.
The upgraded 512Hz Transmitter and Receiver provide a flexible and stable signal, making it easy to track the sonde's location. With a 1000TVL resolution, 12 adjustable LED lights, and a 145-degree wide-angle sapphire lens, the camera delivers crystal-clear high-definition images.
The IP68 waterproof design ensures durability, making it suitable for various pipe sizes. Additionally, the DVR recorder allows video recording and photo capture, supporting up to a 32GB SD card. With a rechargeable Li-ion battery lasting up to 9 hours, this Sanyipace inspection camera locator is an essential tool for professionals in plumbing, construction, inspection, and unblocking services.
Product Overview:
The Sanyipace Sewer Camera is a powerful tool for plumbers, contractors, and other professionals who need to inspect pipes and drains. This borescope camera is equipped with a locator and a distance counter, which allows you to accurately locate the camera probe and the precise issue area. The distance counter function automatically displays the camera distance by meter/feet on the monitor screen, eliminating the need for guesswork.
The Sanyipace sewer camera has an upgraded 512Hz transmitter and receiver, which features a flexible and stable signal that works perfectly with the included 512Hz receiver. This allows for easy tracking of the signal of the sonde and makes it easy to inspect sewer lines, drains, walls, chimneys, machinery, HVAC ductwork, tanks, railway, general building, and any underground narrow environment.
The sewer camera is equipped with a 9-inch color LCD screen and a resolution of 1000TVL. It has an upgraded chip, 12 adjustable bright white LED beads, and a clear 145-degree wide-angle sapphire lens with distortion correction. The sapphire lens is more scratch-resistant and less likely to be damaged, providing you with crystal-clear high-definition images. The camera is also IP68 waterproof and has a diameter of 0.9 inches (23mm) with waterproof stainless steel housing. Suitable for sewer pipes at 25mm/1in-200mm/8in.
The Sanyipace sewer camera also has a DVR recorder that allows you to record video or capture photos. It supports up to 32GB SD card (16GB SD card is included) to store. It also comes with a 12V 4500mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery with a battery status display, which works for up to 9 hours. Sanyipace is a company specializing in designing and producing professional pipe inspection equipment and provides considerate customer support. You can find a sewer camera that fits your needs and budget perfectly.
- Equipped with a locator and a distance counter, which allows you to accurately locate the camera probe and the precise issue area.
- Has an upgraded 512Hz transmitter and receiver, which features a flexible and stable signal that works perfectly with the included 512Hz receiver.
- Equipped with a 9-inch color LCD screen and a resolution of 1000TVL, which provides crystal-clear high-definition images.
- IP68 Waterproof and suitable for sewer pipes at 25mm/1in-200mm/8in.
- Has a DVR recorder that allows you to record video or capture photos and supports up to 32GB SD card (16GB SD card is included)
- The 512Hz Receiver is not included in the package
- The camera’s battery life is limited to 9 hours.
- The camera is not suitable for pipes smaller than 25mm/1in
5. VEVOR Sewer Camera
The 4.3-inch Color TFT LCD Screen Sewer Inspection Camera offers a vivid display and clear images with its 1200TVL monitor. Equipped with DVR functionality and a 16GB micro SD card, it allows recording and saving images for future reference.
The waterproof camera with a 0.7/17mm diameter is suitable for pipelines with a diameter of ≥18mm, functioning effectively up to 65.6ft/20m underwater. The integrated flexible spring enables easy navigation through pipelines, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The camera features 6 LEDs for excellent illumination.
With a 98.4ft/30m rugged cable and a handy cable reel for organization, it facilitates inspections in challenging locations. The package includes a powerful rechargeable 8500mAh Lithium battery, supporting 14 hours of continuous work, and displays the remaining capacity for user convenience.
Suitable for both home and industrial use, it caters to the needs of professionals like plumbers, contractors, inspectors, engineers, and municipal workers for inspecting wastewater systems, stormwater systems, pipelines, drains, ducts, and more.
Product Overview:
The VEVOR Sewer Camera is a powerful tool for plumbers, contractors, and other professionals who need to inspect pipes and drains. The camera is equipped with a 4.3" color TFT LCD screen that provides clear images and a colorful display. The screen is 1200TVL which makes it easy to see the images. It also comes with a DVR function and a 16GB micro SD card that allows you to record and save images for future reference and analysis.
The camera is IP68 waterproof and can work at 65.6 ft/20m underwater without any water damage. It has a diameter of 0.7"/17mm, which makes it suitable for pipelines (≥φ18 mm). The integrated and flexible spring of the camera enables it to make turns easily in the pipelines, especially in the ordinarily hard-to-reach areas. The 6 LED lights in the camera can provide excellent illumination.
The package includes a 98.4ft/30m long cable and a handy cable reel for cable organization. The long cable allows you to reach hard-to-reach places. The package also includes a powerful rechargeable 8500mAh Lithium battery that supports working continuously for 14 hours. There is no need to carry an extra battery pack. The battery has the function of showing the remaining capacity, by which you can get detailed information on battery capacity during usage.
- 4.3″ color TFT LCD screen which provides clear images and a colorful display.
- Waterproof camera with 6 LED lights that can provide excellent illumination even in dark environments.
- 98.4ft cable that is long enough to reach hard-to-reach places.
- 8500mAh Lithium battery that supports working continuously for 14 hours, and a battery capacity display.
- Suitable for a broad range of applications such as wastewater systems, stormwater systems, pipelines, drains, ducts, etc.
- The camera is not suitable for pipes smaller than 18mm.
- The DVR function may not be as advanced as some users expect.
- The package does not include a 512Hz locator.
How To Choose The Best Sewer Camera For Drain Inspection |
Ultimate Guide 2024
Choosing the right sewer inspection camera is a challenge. Many professional contractors and homeowners are disappointed when they purchase unreliable products. This buying guide eliminates these risks by providing suggestions for purchasing your next sewer inspection camera so that you get a great value, proven product that meets your preferences and needs.
1. Screen size and image resolution.
It is generally believed that large screens are best for sewer inspection. Image resolution depends on the features of the device, not the screen size. While a larger screen can display low-resolution images and video, a smaller screen can display high-resolution images.
The high-resolution inspection provides better quality images and video, regardless of screen size. When purchasing an inspection camera, make sure that :
- Captured images and those saved on an SD card do not have strong pixelation.
- It has zoom-in and zoom-out functions.
- Has focus functions
- It has an auxiliary light
2. Insertion probe
Length: make sure the insertion probe is long enough to reach one well through another. The length of insertion probes ranges from 20 to 120 meters. To make it longer, a coil with a holder can be used.
Consider a long rigid or semi-rigid cable.
A suitable insertion probe should allow maneuvering in tight spaces and reach the bottom of tubes.
Material: PVC-coated insertion probes offer the necessary strength.
However, they can be easily damaged or worn out by intensive inspections. To make them more durable, it is recommended to purchase braided probes.
Longevity: if you want your device to last longer, purchase insertion probes that are waterproof, chemical resistant, and can withstand a pressure of 1-6 bar.
3. Camera
LED lighting: sewer inspection cameras with LED lighting improve navigation in dark spaces.
This is an essential feature for sewer projects. When purchasing a sewer camera, check the LED lighting features on the camera tip. The best sewer inspection camera should have LED lighting that :
- Are adjustable
- Have sufficient battery power for long-term inspection projects.
Material: to ensure durability, the sewer inspection camera purchased should be waterproof to avoid damage from water contact.
Consider cameras with stainless steel housing.
Camera view: the best sewer inspection camera should be able to capture a 360-degree front and side view. This allows for clear images without the use of mirrors.
Quality: the quality of a sewer inspection camera is essential, but it is a matter of preference.
Whether you prefer a 3-megapixel or VGA camera, a better quality camera will produce clear images.
4. Battery
When buying a sewer camera, make sure the battery can last a long time. Do not choose AA batteries because they are disposable and not rechargeable.
The best sewer inspection camera should be rechargeable and have a long-lasting battery that can perform inspections for a long time without shutting down. Consider those that last more than 8 hours if your projects are long.
5. Portability
One of the most important features of any hydraulic tool is its portability. Being able to easily transport the sewer inspection camera to the workplace is essential.
The factors that determine the portability of the device are weight and size. The heavier and larger the camera, the more difficult it is to carry.
6. Use
Before purchasing an inspection camera, think about how it will be used.
If you use it regularly, consider buying a more durable model made of a durable material such as anodized steel.
7. Flexibility
When an inspection camera is rigid, it becomes difficult to maneuver in pipes. The camera can get stuck or damaged in the pipes. With a flexible camera, pipes containing bends can be quickly inspected.
8. General features
A good sewer camera should be lightweight and comfortable to hold, especially if you plan to use it for a long time. A sewer camera with a radio transmitter is a plus. This feature can help you locate the camera quickly, provided you use an accurate locator. A good sewer camera can record video, allowing you to keep a routine record of all inspections.
These devices have an external SD card or accept a USB flash drive.
9. Locator
Not all sewer cameras come with a locator. When placing the camera inside a sewer pipe, it is difficult to pinpoint its exact location from the outside. With a camera locator, it is possible to minimize the time and effort required to find the exact location, as most are capable of working up to a depth of 3 meters.
It emits an audible and visual signal to the operator when he approaches the transmitter. The best sewer inspection cameras have locators that indicate both the depth and location of the sewer problem. When purchasing, make sure the sewer camera has a transmitter on the camera head.
A locating camera without a transmitter is not sufficient. Also, make sure that the transmitter and the locator have the same frequency.
FAQs
How to choose a sewer camera?
Here are some tips to help you choose the right sewer camera for your project needs:
- Select the essential feature. ...
- Choose the right length and diameter. ...
- Choose the image capture quality and monitor hub backup. ...
- Find quality pipe inspection systems at USA Borescopes.
How much does it cost to install a camera in pipes?
Camera inspections of pipes cost between $250 and $1,175, with a national average of $685, but this does not include the cost of sewer inspections.
What is a drain inspector?
A drain inspection is a systematic process of evaluating drainage systems to ensure the smooth passage of wastewater from pipes to the sewer system.
Final Thoughts
Sewer inspection cameras are a necessity for any homeowner or plumber. When purchasing them, consider their purpose and essential features to enhance inspection. Although there are several options on the market, make sure the model has all the necessary aspects to maneuver through a sewer line.
Our top five choices do their job well. They are flexible, with long cables that allow you to get into pipe corners, and their screens display clear images and video, just as you want them to. These units come with excellent accessories such as SD cards, long-lasting batteries, and LED lighting, making them top-notch.
Instead of digging sewer lines by guessing and digging in the wrong area or breaking the system, using these tools allows you to pinpoint the exact location of the problem.
