If you're a plumber or sewer inspection technician, you know just how valuable a reliable sewer camera system is. One of the most essential components of these systems is the meter counter—the feature that tells you how far your camera head has traveled into the pipe. So when that counter suddenly stops working or displays inaccurate readings, it can disrupt your entire job.

Let’s break down why a sewer camera meter counter might stop working, the common causes behind the issue, and what you can do to fix it.

Before diving into the problem, let’s quickly define what the sewer camera meter counter does.

Most modern sewer inspection cameras come with a distance counter (also called a footage counter or meter counter). It tracks how many feet (or meters) of push rod have been inserted into the pipe. This helps technicians:

• Pinpoint blockages or defects precisely
• Document inspection data for reports
• Reduce time spent locating problems

Most distance measurement systems rely on a rotating encoder wheel or sensor that tracks the movement of the push rod. If the encoder is worn, misaligned, or damaged, it may not register movement properly, or at all.

(2) Unplug the connection cable and plug it in, then check again whether the connection cable is firmly connected.

When the screen of a sewer inspection camera is damaged, it can severely impact your ability to monitor meter counter changes, making it difficult to track the distance the camera head has traveled inside the pipe. A damaged screen may result from accidental drops, water intrusion, electrical faults, or general wear and tear. Without a functioning display, operators are left without real-time footage or distance information, making the inspection process less efficient and more prone to errors.

Preventive measures, such as using protective casings, avoiding moisture exposure, and handling the equipment carefully, can extend the life of your camera screen. Regular maintenance and prompt repair of any minor issues can prevent screen failure and ensure consistent, reliable use of the sewer camera meter counter feature.

Proper maintenance of your sewer camera’s meter counter is essential to ensure accurate distance measurement during pipe inspections. The sewer camera meter counter is a critical tool that helps determine how far the camera has traveled inside a pipe, aiding in the identification of problem areas. Without regular upkeep, the counter may provide inaccurate readings or fail altogether.

To maintain your sewer camera meter counter, start by regularly inspecting the encoder wheel or sensor that calculates distance. Dirt, debris, or grease buildup on the cable or wheel can interfere with measurements. Clean these components with a soft cloth and mild cleaning agent, ensuring they move smoothly and without obstruction.
Check for cable wear. Since the counter depends on cable movement, any kinks, frays, or excessive bending can hinder its operation. Store cables properly—loosely coiled and in a dry, clean environment—to prevent mechanical strain or environmental damage.

Keep software and firmware updated. Many digital systems rely on internal programming to display and track the sewer camera meter counter. Updates may fix bugs or improve measurement accuracy, so consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and perform updates as recommended.

Calibrate the system periodically, especially after repairs or if readings appear inconsistent. Most systems provide a calibration function that resets the meter counter to improve accuracy. Calibration ensures that the footage and meter count align with actual pipeline distances.