Camera video inspection has become a go-to method for locating blockages in drainage systems, commercial plumbing lines, and sewer pipes. Instead of relying solely on symptoms like slow flow or backups, technicians use a remote-controlled inspection camera to see what’s happening inside the pipe in real time.

The process typically involves inserting a waterproof, high-resolution camera into the affected line and advancing it while recording video. As the camera moves, the operator looks for changes in flow, obstructions, pipe conditions, and any visible damage that could explain the problem.

How the inspection works

A flexible cable with the camera at the end is fed into the drain through an access point. The camera transmits live footage to a monitor, often with location tracking capabilities that help estimate where along the line the issue appears.

Depending on the system, techni ... Read more »

Over time, mineral deposits and sediment can build up inside a faucet’s aerator screen, reducing water pressure and causing uneven spraying. Cleaning the faucet screen is usually quick, low-cost, and can noticeably improve flow.

What you’ll need

Most faucet screens can be cleaned with items you likely already have: a soft cloth, a small bowl, white vinegar (or a descaling solution), a toothbrush or small brush, and a pair of pliers (optionally). If your faucet has a removable aerator, you may also need a wrench or aerator key.

Step 1: Remove the aerator screen

Unscrew the aerator at the tip of the faucet. Wrap the aerator with a cloth first if it feels stuck to avoid scratching the finish. If it won’t turn by hand, use pliers with the cloth in between or an aerator key if you have one.

Step 2: Take note of the parts

As you remove ... Read more »

A slow-draining or fully blocked bathtub is usually the result of hair, soap scum, and everyday grime collecting at the drain opening and in the trap. The good news: many clogs can be cleared quickly with the right approach and a little patience.

Start with the easiest checks

Before using stronger methods, confirm the blockage source. Remove the drain stopper or cover (if applicable) and look for visible hair or residue. If you can reach it, pull it out with gloves or a paper towel-wrapped tool to avoid pushing material deeper.

If the drain is covered by a pop-up stopper, check for trapped hair around the mechanism and around the overflow path. Sometimes the “clog” is actually a stuck stopper or residue collecting at the edge of the drain assembly.

Use a drain snake or auger for hair-heavy clogs

For clogs you can’t see, a drain snake (hand auger) is often the ... Read more »

As concerns about water quality continue to grow, many homeowners are turning to full house filtration to address issues at the source. Unlike point-of-use filters that treat only a single tap, whole-home systems are designed to clean water before it reaches plumbing fixtures, showers, and appliances.

Full house filtration typically combines multiple stages to target different contaminants. Depending on the model and configuration, systems may include sediment filtration for particles, carbon filtration for chlorine and odor, and additional media designed to capture substances such as lead or certain chemicals. The exact performance varies by design and what contaminants are present in a household’s water supply.

What whole-home systems can help with

For many residents, the most noticeable benefits are improvements to taste and smell. Carbon-based stages are commonly used to reduce chlori ... Read more »