Sewer cameras are an important tool for inspecting the inside of pipes, helping us to clearly identify clogs, cracks, and corrosion that occur within them.

At the same time, to ensure the normal use of the sewer camera and extend its life, regular maintenance is also crucial. In this article, we will inform you of the benefits of maintaining your sewer camera and guide how to do so to extend its life.

Why Do You Need to Maintain Sewer Cameras Regularly?

Sewer cameras often operate in harsh environments, and over time, they can wear out and become less efficient. Regular maintenance helps you maximize the value of your investment by supporting its long-term performance and reliability. Many of the benefits of sewer cameras — like clear imaging and accurate diagnostics — depend on proper upkeep.

Here’s what routine maintenance can do for you:

• Extend the life of your equipment

• Avoid costly repairs or unexpected breakdowns

• Maintain clear, accurate video quality for effective inspections

• Prevent failures during important or time-sensitive jobs

Consistent care ensures your equipment stays dependable and ready to go when you need it most.

How Often Should You Check Your Sewer Camera?

A sewer or plumbing camera should be checked every time it is used. Before each job, do a quick inspection of the lens, cable, and connectors to ensure everything is clean and functioning properly. After use, be sure to wipe down the camera, dry the cable, and store the unit in a dry, protected place.

In addition to routine checks, it's recommended to perform a thorough inspection and maintenance at least once a year, especially if the camera has not been used for an extended period. During this deep check, test the battery performance, ensure the cables power up smoothly, and watch for signs of wear—such as blurry images, overheating, or connection issues.

Proactive maintenance not only helps avoid costly downtime but also extends the life of your equipment.

Signs That Your Sewer Camera Needs Maintenance

If your sewer inspection camera shows signs like the following, it’s time to start checking your camera.

• Video feed becomes blurry or flickers — This could signal a dirty or damaged lens, or a connection issue.

• LED lights stop working or dim — Dirty bulbs or electrical faults may be the cause.

• Battery drains faster than usual — This may indicate overcharging, battery aging, or charging circuit problems.

• The cable becomes difficult to insert or retract — Dirt buildup or internal friction may be affecting the push rod.

• Lens looks scratched, cloudy, or foggy — Damage to the lens surface can reduce image clarity.

• Device overheats during use — Poor ventilation, battery problems, or internal component stress might be to blame.
  

Address these issues as soon as they appear to avoid larger problems down the line.

How to Maintain Sewer Cameras?

How to properly maintain your sewer camera? Here are a few tips to help you protect your device and extend its life.

1. Regular Inspection

Regular inspection can find out whether the parts of the camera are damaged, aged, or worn, so that replacement or maintenance measures can be taken to avoid equipment failure at critical moments.

2. Keep the Camera Clean

Clean the camera lens promptly after use to extend its service life.
Please connect the camera and coil together for cleaning, and then gently wipe the lens with a soft rag. Never use harsh solvents or cleaners to clean the camera, as they can damage the lens.

3. Avoid Overcharging

Do not charge the sewer camera continuously for more than 8 hours, as prolonged overcharging may damage the battery.
When the camera is fully charged, unplug the charger in time, and never use it while charging.

4. Handling & Storage

Please handle the device carefully during operation and do not drop or push it hard.
When the sewer camera is not in use, store it in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.
Do not charge continuously for more than 8 hours or use it while charging.

5. Follow the User Manual

Reading carefully and complying with the instructions and precautions in the user manual can ensure the good operation of the equipment and reduce the damage or performance degradation caused by improper operation.

When using the sewer camera, you can refer to the above methods to maintain your device to ensure that your device will not be easily damaged or reduce work efficiency!

Conclusion

In summary, proper maintenance of your sewer camera not only extends the lifespan of the device but also helps you work more efficiently and avoid unexpected downtime. During use, always pay attention to any warning signs the equipment may give—these often indicate it’s time for a check-up. Regular upkeep doesn’t just protect your gear—it saves you time, energy, and money in the long run.

Still wondering if all this effort is worthwhile? Check out Is Sewer Camera Inspection Worth It? to see how routine inspections and camera use can deliver real value to your business or home maintenance routine.

FAQ

1. Can I Use Alcohol Wipes to Clean the Camera Lens?

No. Avoid using alcohol wipes or any harsh chemicals, as they can damage the lens coating and compromise the waterproof seal. Instead, gently clean the lens with a soft, damp microfiber cloth. For tougher dirt or residue, use distilled water or a camera-safe lens cleaning solution.

2. What is the Best Way to Store Sewer Cameras?

Always store your sewer camera in a clean, dry, and cool environment. Use a padded carrying case to protect the device from dust, moisture, and physical impact. 

Avoid leaving it in hot vehicles, direct sunlight, or damp areas, as extreme temperatures and humidity can damage both the electronics and the cable.

3. My Camera’s Video Feed is Flickering—What Should I Do?

First, check if the battery is fully charged and ensure that all cable connections are secure. Clean the lens in case dirt or fog is affecting the image quality. 

If the issue continues, refer to the user manual for troubleshooting steps or contact the manufacturer’s customer support for assistance.

4. How Long Does the Battery Usually Last?

With proper care, most sewer camera batteries last 3 to 5 years. Battery longevity depends on usage frequency and how well it's maintained. 

To extend battery life, avoid overcharging, never store the device with a depleted battery, and follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.