Before CCTV inspections can take place, sewer or storm lines must be cleaned. The cleaning operator uses various nozzles to deliver up to 3,000 pounds of pressure per square inch to dislodge grease, roots and other debris. The vacuumed debris must be decanted and disposed of properly.

CES can clean sanitary sewer lines, storm sewer lines, manholes, lift stations, and more. Standard cleaning trucks can clean up to 700 feet from one manhole. CES also has custom equipment that can clean up to 5,000 feet from one manhole, sometimes eliminating the need for bypass pumping operations.

Proper sewer and storm drain maintenance allows systems to operate at full capacity. Blockages and defects often cause localized flooding, a common occurrence in aging sewer systems. After cleaning, clients will see improvements in system hydraulics and lift station performance, as well as a reduction in pump wear. Cleaning also provides increased system capacity, reduced customer complaints, and a reduction in overflows and bypasses.

frequently asked questions

How does a Sewer or Storm Drain Triage Program work?

The CES triage approach helps clients get the most from their budgets. This is how it works:

1. Inspect first to understand the overall system condition, including debris levels, structural integrity, and flow conditions 
2. Clean only dirty pipes 
3. Evaluate problem areas to provide clear inspection data/mapping to guide clients toward the most important repairs or rehabilitation

Sound data leads to more cost-effective planning and fewer surprises. 

Does CES offer recommendations after cleaning and inspection?

Yes. At the end of each phase of your project, we deliver a detailed report with your next steps prioritized, allowing you to stay within your budget and implement cost-effective planning.

Do pipes need to be cleaned before CCTV inspection?

Yes, cleaning must happen before CCTV can take place. The line must be clear of debris for the camera to provide more accurate defect locations, gather better geometry data, move through the system more efficiently, and see the entire pipe clearly. CES field technicians will clean pipes before bringing in CCTV.