5 Signs Your Plumbing Inspection System Needs an Upgrade

Plumbing inspection systems need to be upgraded if the desired results are not obtained from the existing tools. Whether you are receiving poor images or video quality or not being able to make accurate reports, there are several telltale signs that indicate faulty systems and the need for an upgrade.

A well-planned water supply system can become ineffective within a few years. A proper inspection system is needed; otherwise, it can lead to more complex issues. To ensure a proper diagnosis of the plumbing infrastructure, a well-executed inspection system is required. 

Plumbers often use old tools to inspect a drain. This accounts for an inefficient inspection, and the existing issues are not solved. This blog points out the major signs that indicate the upgradation of the plumbing inspection system.

Need for Upgraded Inspection Systems

Plumbing inspections from time to time are vital because they can identify issues before they turn into costly emergencies. Often, a minor plumbing defect can damage the entire infrastructure of your home. This aids in engaging experienced professionals in the inspection system. 

Plumbers often rely on a visual inspection camera system for inspection. This helps to find the present issues in the sewage system so that possible measures can be undertaken. A proper use of tools and equipment helps plumbers to inspect a system properly, thereby impacting consumer perception. 

The use of outdated tools in inspection for septic systems results in not finding the existing problems, and they become serious threats later. Moreover, this accounts for the time wastage and customer dissatisfaction.

Top 5 Signs That Indicate the Upgradation of the Plumbing Inspection System

An outdated inspection system makes the inspection process time-consuming and inefficient. Additionally, it hampers the reputation of a plumber. Let’s discuss the top signs that indicate that an inspection system requires an upgrade.

1. Poor Image or Video Quality 

Images and videos are important in identifying issues in a pipe inspection system. A plumber needs to upgrade the inspection system if black and white photos are obtained. Furthermore, a blurred image is going to be a hindrance in a plumbing inspection. 

Whether you are capturing photos or videos during an inspection, you need a good-quality camera. An outdated one is devoid of certain features, like strong lighting and good resolution. This results in obtaining poor-quality outputs. Hence, you will miss several issues, like root intrusion, corrosion, deep cracks, etc. 

What is needed to acquire a perfect picture? Well, your camera resolution must be above 720p. HD cameras are perfect for finding out the issues during a pipe inspection system that the older equipment cannot.

Here is a comparison of different system types and their applications. 

Table 1: System Types With Their Resolutions and Use Cases

This demonstrates that HD digital inspection is now recognized as essential, allowing for the identification of any hidden issues.

2. Poor Signal

Are you experiencing lag during inspection? This is a clear indication of faulty inspection systems. During an inspection, you need to obtain proper signals. This can be a challenge if there are frequent disconnections. Therefore, the system needs an update. 

Often, plumbers witness technical glitches during an automatic inspection system. This can be because of equipment malfunction, which is common in an old system. So, you need to upgrade it. Poor wireless signal and faulty cabling affect the inspection system, and several existing sewage issues might be ignored. This leads to higher callbacks. 

A plumber needs to check the cable connectors and signal transmitter frequently. These are the areas that mainly contribute to weak signals. 

3. Ignoring Modern Reporting Tools

Are you still relying on older tools and equipment in the pipe inspection system? Well, you are way behind in the race, and that might reduce your appointments.

The advancement of technology has been noticed in various fields, and the plumbing inspection system is not an exception. You are not an automatic choice for clients if you are not capable of using modern reporting tools. 

Presently, plumbers are using a visual inspection camera system to identify defects in the drainage system. Thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters, inspection software, etc., are used in modern plumbing inspections. 

Latest tools help to obtain digital inspection reports and annotated videos that clients also prefer. You cannot export videos and images using the older systems. You need to upgrade your inspection system if you are not compatible with modern tools. 

Let's check out the modern features of plumbing inspection systems and their presence in old and modern systems.

Table 2: Old System vs Modern System in Inspection Features

This indicates that you need to upgrade your plumbing inspection system if it is an outdated one. This is because it lacks the latest features that are used in the process. 

4. Incapable of Handling Newer Pipe Types

Currently, drainage systems use different types of pipes, like PVC, ABS, HDPE, etc. A basic visual inspection is not appropriate to examine such pipes. Like, the presently used plumbing pipes have 90° turns. You cannot inspect such pipes with older cameras. 

Can you inspect a 100ft pipe with an analog system or a digital SD system? No. You need HD cameras in this case. Handling newer pipes is difficult if you have an outdated system. This points out the need to upgrade inspection systems. 

Commercial spaces possess pipes with large diameters or small diameters. You need to use equipment like lateral launch cameras, push cameras, robotic crawlers, etc., in such instances. Does your inspection system contain such equipment? If not, upgrading it must be your preferred option.

Let's see different pipe types and whether old systems and modern systems can inspect those. 

Table 3: Old System vs Modern System in Pipe Sizes

This shows that modern systems have wider use cases as compared to an outdated one.

5. High Downtime and Maintenance

A plumbing inspection system is comprised of inspection cameras, cables, temperature testers, etc. Signs like frequent lens change, cable replacements, software crashes, etc., are red flags. These show that your inspection system is incompatible, and there is a need to upgrade it. 

With an excess of downtime, you will witness dissatisfied clients. This also results in revenue loss. Prioritizing modern systems helps you fix issues quickly. Also, the maintenance cost is reduced significantly if you use the latest equipment in plumbing inspection.

Upgrading Your Plumbing Inspection Systems: What Are the Top Advantages?

To embrace professionalism, a plumber must upgrade an outdated inspection system. Here are the main benefits of upgrading inspection systems for plumbers.

• Client Satisfaction: A plumber must focus on the fact that clients need to be satisfied at the end of the day. This is not obtained if you have an outdated system. Updating it helps you retain your existing customers alongside getting the new ones.
• Quicker Diagnosis: You can execute a pipe inspection system quickly if you possess the latest tools and equipment. This accounts for effective results, and you can expect fewer callbacks. 
• Enhanced Professional Image: Don’t you try to improve your professional image in a competitive market? This can be obtained if you upgrade your existing system. 

Considerations to Make Before Equipment Upgrades

Before thinking about upgrading inspection systems, you need to understand how much you can invest in them. Tools used in residential inspection systems differ from those that are used in industrial lines inspection. Hence, your job type is a considerable factor before upgrading the inspection system. 

For instance, are you using a low-resolution camera to inspect long drains? This is not the right option. Consider an HD camera for it. Also, you should acknowledge the inspection kits that are compatible with tablets and smartphones. 

Wrapping Up

An outdated inspection system results in missing deeper drainage issues, and that hampers a plumber’s reputation. You need to upgrade your system if you obtain poor image quality and a poor signal. A proper upgrade is needed if you are not using the latest reporting tools. This will lead to better professionalism and customer satisfaction.

Upgrading Your Inspection System

Is your inspection system not capable of handling different pipe types? It's time to upgrade it. Visit us to explore our inspection tools and equipment. Choose the ones that match your job type. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Duration of Upgrading a Plumbing Inspection System?

You need to upgrade your system every 5 years. Check the latest market trends and customer needs before upgradation. 

2. What is the Maintenance Process of Plumbing Tools?

Daily cleaning and disinfecting tools are the basic considerations of the maintenance process. Also, lubricate the moving parts and inspect wear and tear regularly. These must be stored in dry areas.

3. Do Plumbers Guarantee Their Work?

This depends on the policy of the company that is being contacted for the plumbing work. For individual professionals, they can offer guarantees if they are using the latest tools and equipment. 

4. Should a Plumber With an Upgraded Inspection System Charge for Estimates?

No, you should not charge for estimates. This lowers your professional scope because homeowners might not want to pay you for just an estimation.