Sewer and Drain Problems? How Video Scoping Saves You Money

Stop Guessing — Start Seeing

When drains slow down or sewer lines back up, the traditional approach was to guess at the problem and start digging. Today, sewer and drain video scoping lets us see exactly what’s happening inside your pipes using a small waterproof camera. This means accurate diagnosis, targeted repairs, and no unnecessary excavation.

What Is Video Scoping?

Video scoping involves inserting a small, high-definition camera attached to a flexible cable into your drain or sewer line. The camera transmits real-time video, allowing technicians to see pipe conditions, identify blockages, and locate damage with precision. The camera includes a locator to pinpoint the exact depth and position of any problem.

Common Problems Video Scoping Reveals

Tree root intrusion: Albuquerque’s large cottonwood and elm trees have aggressive root systems that infiltrate sewer lines through joints and cracks.

Pipe damage and collapse: Older homes — especially in the North Valley, South Valley, and near Downtown — may have original clay or cast iron sewer lines that crack or collapse over time.

Grease and buildup: Years of cooking grease, soap, and mineral deposits gradually narrow pipes until flow is restricted.

Bellied pipes: Ground shifting can cause sections of pipe to sag, creating low spots where water and debris collect.

Offset joints: Ground movement pushes pipe joints out of alignment, creating edges that catch debris and cause recurring clogs.

When Should You Schedule a Camera Inspection?

Consider drain camera inspection for recurring clogs, slow drains in multiple fixtures, sewage odors, wet spots in your yard near the sewer line, or when buying a home. Video scoping is also valuable before major plumbing renovations or when connecting new construction to existing sewer lines.

How Video Scoping Saves You Money

Without video inspection, plumbers sometimes excavate multiple sections to find a problem. With camera inspection, we go directly to it. We’ve seen cases where homeowners were told they needed full sewer line replacement when the actual problem was a single root intrusion that could be repaired at a fraction of the cost.

Complete Plumbing Services

At MGP Mechanical, sewer and drain scoping is one part of our comprehensive plumbing services. Whether you need drain cleaning, pipe repair, water heater service, or water filtration, our licensed plumbers handle it all. Call (505) 917-4130.