Professional plumbing inspections identify potential issues, helping to boost code compliance and maintain the integrity of a plumbing system. Trained plumbers conduct the assessments using various techniques and tools, such as drain cameras and pressure gauges. Here are five methods plumbing companies use for professional inspections:
1. Visual Inspection
Experienced plumbers examine all visible pipes, joints, and connections for signs of leaks. They look for water stains, puddles, or damp areas around pipes. Loose or improperly connected pipes can cause leaks and reduce the plumbing system’s efficiency. To manage these risks, plumbing professionals verify that all connections are securely tightened and properly sealed.
Plumbers can also check pipes and fittings for signs of rust, as corrosion may weaken these components and lead to leaks. They also inspect drains and traps for proper installation and issues like blockages or damage. Water damage can signify underlying plumbing issues that need prompt attention. Plumbers look for water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors and signs of mold or mildew growth.
2. Camera Inspection
Plumbers insert waterproof cameras into drains or cleanout caps to assess the condition of pipes and identify issues within a plumbing system. While navigating through the pipes, the flexible camera transmits live video feed to a monitor or recording device for proper analysis. A camera inspection identifies blockages such as debris, grease buildup, tree roots, or foreign objects in the plumbing system.
Video plumbing inspection is suitable for hard-to-reach areas, including pipes within walls, under slabs, or buried underground. The camera allows plumbers to examine the condition of pipes more closely. They can identify issues like corrosion, cracks, breaks, or misalignments. After inspection, plumbing companies can clean drains to remove blockages or replace damaged pipes.
3. Pressure Testing
Pressure testing is a method used to assess the integrity of a plumbing system by pressurizing it to detect leaks and weaknesses. Plumbers can conduct pressure testing on newly installed plumbing systems to verify their integrity before authorizing them for regular use. During pressurization, leaks result in a drop in pressure, indicating the presence of a problem.
Pressure testing is effective in evaluating the integrity of joints, connections, and seals, which are potential points of vulnerability where leaks may occur. This method is also helpful for identifying hidden or hard-to-detect leaks that may not be apparent during a visual inspection. This includes leaks within foundations, under concrete slabs, or in concealed areas.
4. Smoke Testing
Smoke testing helps identify leaks, breaks, faulty connections, and other issues within a plumbing system or sewer line. Plumbers use smoke testing to assess the integrity of sanitary sewer systems to identify points of infiltration and exfiltration. Infiltration is the entry of external substances, such as groundwater or rainwater, into the sewer system, while exfiltration occurs when sewage leaks out of the system.
Plumbing professionals introduce smoke into the plumbing system, filling the pipes. Plumbers visually inspect the area for the presence of smoke. The smoke will escape through any openings or defects in the plumbing system, making it visible at the points of leakage. Possible issues include cracked pipes, loose joints, damaged seals, or improperly connected plumbing fixtures.
5. Water Quality Testing
Plumbers conduct various tests to assess water quality and determine if it meets health and safety standards. They can evaluate the physical characteristics of water, such as color, odor, and clarity. In areas with hard water, where high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium are present, plumbers may recommend and install water softeners. For issues such as high sediment levels, chlorine, or other contaminants, plumbers may install water filtration systems. Reverse osmosis systems can remove impurities like dissolved minerals, rust, and certain chemicals.
Choose Reputed Plumbing Companies
Experience plumbers use water quality tests, visual inspections, pressure tests, camera inspections, and smoke tests to detect issues within plumbing systems. With regular inspections, these professionals can repair, replace, or install plumbing components to boost normal functioning. Work with reputed plumbing companies for quality inspections to resolve or prevent water system issues.
