How to Use a Manhole Inspection Camera Efficiently – Tips and Tricks

Manhole inspections are crucial for maintaining the health and safety of underground infrastructure, especially in cities and municipalities. Traditionally, inspecting manholes could involve invasive digging and costly labor. However, with the advent of modern inspection equipment, these inspections have become more efficient, cost-effective, and safer. In this blog, we'll explore how to use a manhole inspection camera efficiently, with practical tips and tricks that can improve the quality and speed of your inspections.

Understanding the importance of manhole inspection cameras

Manhole inspection cameras are specialized devices designed to capture high-resolution footage of the inside of manholes, allowing technicians to identify issues such as blockages, cracks, corrosion, root intrusions, or other structural damage. These cameras are typically mounted on a flexible rod or cable that can navigate through manholes and underground pipes. The ability to visually inspect manholes without extensive digging provides a significant advantage for municipalities and contractors looking to maintain their infrastructure.

Choose the right manhole inspection camera

Not all manhole inspection cameras are built the same. To ensure an efficient inspection, selecting the right camera for the job is essential. Consider the following when choosing your camera:

• Camera Resolution: High-resolution cameras provide clearer images, helping technicians identify even small issues in the manhole.
• Cable Length and Flexibility: The length and flexibility of the cable should be suitable for the depth of the manhole and the complexity of the pipes.
• Built-in Lighting: Since manholes can be dark and difficult to navigate, cameras with strong built-in lighting are crucial for getting a clear view.
• Waterproof and Durable Build: The camera should be robust and waterproof to handle harsh and wet environments typical of manhole inspections.

Prepare the inspection site

Before using your manhole inspection camera, it's essential to properly prepare the site. Ensure that the manhole cover is safely removed and any surrounding debris is cleared. This helps to prevent obstructions and allows the camera to move freely through the manhole.

Make sure that you have easy access to both the manhole and the camera's controls. You should be able to maneuver the camera in and out of the manhole efficiently while monitoring the footage.

Move the camera slowly and steadily

One of the keys to an efficient and effective manhole inspection is maintaining a slow and steady camera movement. Rushing through the inspection can result in missed issues or unclear images. Move the camera in small increments, taking time to carefully inspect every area of the manhole, including the walls, floor, and any pipes or tunnels.

Be sure to check every corner of the manhole for signs of damage, leaks, or other issues. Taking your time during this step ensures you don't overlook any critical problems that could require future maintenance.

Use the camera’s features to your advantage

Modern manhole inspection cameras come equipped with a range of features that can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your inspections. 

One of the most valuable features is the real-time video feed, which allows you to assess the condition of the manhole as the camera moves through it. This instant feedback enables you to identify and address potential issues on the spot, avoiding unnecessary delays. Additionally, many cameras offer recording capabilities, allowing you to capture footage for later review, documentation, or future reference. 

This is especially useful for reporting purposes or for showing clients and stakeholders the exact condition of the infrastructure. The adjustable lighting feature is another critical advantage, as it provides optimal visibility in dark or hard-to-reach areas of the manhole, ensuring no detail is overlooked. In some cases, wireless connectivity enables the live streaming of footage to remote devices or cloud storage, making it easier to collaborate with team members or experts in real time, no matter where they are located. 

By taking full advantage of these features, you can streamline your inspection process, improve diagnostic accuracy, and ensure that you capture every essential detail.

Inspect for specific issues

When using a manhole inspection camera, it’s essential to inspect for specific issues to ensure a thorough and targeted evaluation of the infrastructure. 

Focus on identifying common problems such as cracks, corrosion, or blockages that could lead to costly repairs or disruptions in service. The camera’s ability to capture high-resolution footage allows you to closely examine the interior of the manhole for structural damage, such as fractures in the walls or the presence of tree root intrusions that could cause blockages. It's also crucial to look for signs of sediment buildup, which could obstruct the flow of water and contribute to further damage over time. Pay attention to areas with unusual wear, discoloration, or evidence of leaks, as these are often indicative of underlying issues that require immediate attention. 

By focusing on these specific concerns, you can accurately assess the condition of the manhole and take the appropriate steps to address any problems, ultimately saving time and resources in the long run.

Document and report findings

Once the inspection is complete, it's important to document your findings thoroughly. Many manhole inspection cameras have built-in reporting features that allow you to create digital reports based on your footage and findings. Be sure to record the specific locations and types of issues identified so that maintenance teams can address them promptly.

If you don't have automated reporting, consider taking notes or screenshots during the inspection, which you can reference when making recommendations for repairs or follow-up actions.

Perform regular inspections

Manhole inspections should be conducted regularly to catch potential problems early. Scheduled inspections help to identify small issues before they turn into major repairs, saving time and money in the long run. With the efficiency of manhole inspection cameras, these inspections can be conducted more frequently and with less disruption to daily operations.

Why choose a manhole inspection camera from RinnoVision

Using a RinnoVision manhole inspection camera offers several significant advantages for inspecting underground infrastructure efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. RinnoVision cameras are designed to provide high-resolution, real-time video footage, allowing technicians to visually inspect the interior of manholes without the need for invasive digging or costly labor. This technology helps quickly identify issues such as blockages, cracks, corrosion, or root intrusions that could otherwise go undetected.

RV-MAX 360 and RV-PRO 360 inspection cameras from RinnoVision are built with durability in mind, often featuring waterproof, rugged designs that can withstand the harsh conditions found in manholes, including moisture, debris, and tight spaces. The cameras are also equipped with flexible cables or rods that allow for easy navigation through manholes and complex pipe systems. Additionally, the cameras’ built-in lighting systems ensure clear visibility even in dark and confined spaces.