Video: eTeq inspection camera

An inspection camera used to be a hole in the wall. That you made with your hammer. Or keyhole saw. One big enough to crank your head in there (and bug out your eye, come on, you’re doing it right now) to see. I am (seriously).

And since it’s the work behind the walls that makes the lights come on, being able to see what’s in there makes DIY projects and pro jobs easier. But a typical inspection camera is expensive because you have to buy the camera and the monitor. I, as Captain Frugal, am not likely to purchase such a tool. I believe, actually, I am not genetically capable of it.

But when I need a look, instead of a giant hole in the wall, I need a look. Whether it’s for moving coaxial cable, dropping a switch leg, mapping out routes for wires—heck I’ve even used it looking for my camouflage-cat before a vet visit—the eTeq inspection camera short circuits that double-buy situation. Using an app and a monitor I already own (phone or tablet) it gets me the peek I need to get work done. And it totally minimizes the amount of drywall repair I have to do to afterwards.

Suddenly something that once seemed the realm of a surgery show on Discovery Channel or a pro electrician’s tool box becomes a something I can jam inside a wall to take a look. Then jam inside a tool box when I’m done. For a price that makes it totally worth it.

For DIY wiring on the weekend or a go-to for a pro remodeler fishing the occasional line or diagnosing a mystery leak the eTeq inspection camera can be your eyes behind the wall.

It’s still OK to bug them out. But without your head in the wall or under a sink, it might look weird.