Sewer cameras come with many features, but not all of them matter for every inspection. Some features directly affect accuracy, clarity, and professionalism, while others are advanced tools meant for specific jobs.
This guide explains the most important sewer camera features in a clear, practical way so you can choose the right system for your work without overspending.
Table of Contents
1. Camera Head Explained
The camera head is the most important part of any sewer inspection system. It determines where you can inspect, how clearly you see, and how accurately you diagnose problems.
a. Camera Head Sizes
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Small Camera Heads Best for 1–2” pipes, P-traps, sinks, tubs, and toilets. They navigate tight bends and small drains where larger cameras cannot fit. |
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Standard Camera Heads Best for 2–6” residential and light commercial sewer lines. They offer a balance of stability, lighting, and maneuverability. |
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Large Camera Heads Best for 6–12” commercial and municipal pipes. They provide stronger lighting, better stability, and clearer images in larger pipes. |
b. Image Quality: Standard vs HD
- Standard cameras work well for basic inspections and blockage checks.
- HD cameras provide sharper images that make cracks, corrosion, offsets, and joint defects easier to identify.
HD is not required for every job, but it is highly recommended for:
- Commercial inspections
- Municipal documentation
- Reports that require visual proof
c. Self-Leveling Cameras
Self-leveling keeps the image upright automatically as the camera moves through the pipe.
Why it matters:
- Prevents upside-down or disorienting footage
- Makes inspection videos easier to understand
- Produces more professional documentation
Self-leveling is strongly recommended for pipes larger than 2” and any inspection where footage will be reviewed or shared.
d. Pan-Tilt Cameras (Advanced Feature)
Pan-tilt cameras allow the operator to rotate and tilt the camera head to view pipe walls, joints, and defects from multiple angles.
Best for:
- Commercial inspections
- Municipal and infrastructure work
- Large-diameter pipes
- Detailed condition assessments
Pan-tilt is an advanced feature, not a requirement for most residential inspections.
2. Cable and Reel Basics
The cable determines how far you can inspect and how easily the camera moves through the pipe.
a. Cable Length
- 65–130 ft: Indoor drains and small residential work
- 130–200 ft: Residential sewer laterals
- 200–600 ft: Commercial and municipal systems
b. Cable Thickness & Push Strength
- Thinner cables navigate tight bends more easily
- Thicker cables provide better push strength for long or debris-filled pipes
c. Meter Counter
A meter counter displays the camera’s distance inside the pipe in real time.
Why it matters:
- Accurate problem location
- Faster repairs
- Better documentation and reporting
3. Inspection Systems: Control Station vs WiFi Box
The difference between wired and wireless systems is how you view and control the inspection, not the camera itself.
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a. Control Station SystemsInspections are performed using a dedicated control station with built-in screen and controls. Best for:
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b. WiFi Box SystemsThe camera connects to your phone or tablet via WiFi. Best for:
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Both systems inspect the same pipes; the choice depends on workflow and preference.
4. Sewer Camera Accessories
Accessories are not mandatory, but they can significantly improve results in specific conditions.
a. Skids
Skids help center the camera, protect the lens, and improve image stability, especially in larger pipes. Different skid types are designed for different pipe sizes and job conditions.
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Foam Ball Skids Best for small cameras (1”) and tight pipes. They’re lightweight, affordable, and provide basic protection while keeping the camera centered in the pipe. |
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Plastic Skids Offer stronger protection than foam and better durability for frequent use. Ideal for standard residential and light commercial inspections where added stability is needed. |
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Crawler Skids (Wheeled Skids) Designed for larger pipes and longer runs. They use a metal frame with wheels to help the camera move smoothly, reduce friction, and maintain a stable viewing angle in wide-diameter pipes. |
b. Spring Kits
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Soft springs: Small pipes and tight bends
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Strong springs: Larger pipes and better stability
- Springs with transmitter: Locating capability
5. Locator Systems (512Hz Sonde)
A 512Hz transmitter allows the camera to be located from above ground using a locator.
Important note:
To use a locator, the system must be equipped with a spring or camera head that includes a transmitter.
Locators are essential for:
- Marking pipe location and depth
- Planning repairs or excavation
- Outdoor and buried pipe inspections
They are optional for indoor or visual-only inspections.
6. What Features Matter Most by Job Type
| Job Type | Must-Have Features | Optional / Advanced |
|---|---|---|
| Residential plumbing | Self-leveling, meter counter | HD |
| Drain cleaning | Small camera, flexible cable | Transmitter |
| Commercial work | HD, self-leveling, 512Hz | Pan-tilt |
| Municipal inspections | HD, pan-tilt, locator | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a pan-tilt sewer camera?
Only for advanced inspections, large pipes, or detailed condition assessments. Most residential work does not require pan-tilt.
2. Is HD really necessary?
HD is not mandatory, but it greatly improves accuracy, documentation quality, and professional reporting.
3. What does self-leveling do?
Self-leveling keeps the image upright automatically, making footage easier to interpret and more professional.
4. Do I need a locator for every inspection?
No. Locators are essential for underground or outdoor work, but not required for indoor inspections.
5. Is WiFi better than a control station?
Neither is better. WiFi systems offer portability, while control stations offer durability and larger displays.
6. Can I upgrade features later?
Many professional systems allow upgrades such as HD cameras, self-leveling heads, and transmitter springs.
Related Reading
For more tips and product insights, check out our latest blogs:
How Often Should Sewer Lines Be Inspected?
What Can a Sewer Camera Detect?
For questions about Forbest inspection cameras, contact a Representative by calling 1-877-369-1199 or message us by clicking here.