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SMOKE TEST DRAINS
Common concerns for homeowners include foul-smelling drains, rodent issues, and drainage leaks. Despite their prevalence, these problems should not be ignored. Identifying the source of unpleasant odours is crucial to maintaining optimal drain conditions and preventing harmful gases from infiltrating your home.
The lingering presence of sewer smells and rodent problems can significantly impact the ambiance of a space, underscoring the need for prompt resolution. Fortunately, a straightforward solution exists to pinpoint the origin of odours and rodent entry points—the smoke test for drains.
Plumbing Smoke Test Explanation
Smoke testing is a straightforward technique employed in plumbing maintenance to pinpoint issues within the drainage system, such as blockages, cracks, and leaks.
This method is also effective for detecting odours. Its reliability and accuracy, particularly in identifying pipe
damage overlooked by CCTV drain surveys, ensure efficient and superior plumbing maintenance.
The real-time footage captured by the cameras provides a detailed and accurate visual inspection of the interior of your pipes.
Smoke Test Steps
1
Open Manholes:
Begin by identifying the lines of the drainage system responsible for carrying waste away from your residence. Opening the manholes at both ends of the sewer section to be tested allows the smoke to flow through the drains.
2
Block the Lines:
Once the sewer section is identified, prepare for the smoke test by blocking other lines. Use sandbags and covers to obstruct the entrance of lines not being tested. Properly blocking other lines is essential to prevent smoke from seeping into them, ensuring accurate results.
3
Position the Smoke Blower Correctly:
Place the smoke blower over the open manhole at either end of the line to force smoke through the sewer section being tested. Turn on the smoke blower.
4
Light the Smoke Pellets:
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to light and use the smoke pellets. Place the pellets in the holder on the blower or on the grate beneath it. The blower creates a pressure difference, forcing the smoke into the drain.
5
Search for Smoke Plumes:
Look for smoke plumes in the surrounding area. Plumes should ideally appear around plumbing vents or manholes, indicating proper vent functionality. Any plumes detected elsewhere may signify issues such as cracked pipes or illegal connections, requiring attention and marking for fixing.
6
Search for Smoke Plumes inside the House:
After marking exterior plumes, inspect the interior for smoke plumes. If the sewer smell is traced to specific areas, such as the kitchen sink or bathroom, interior plumes may reveal defective plumbing or dry traps.
7
Repeat the Sewer Smoke Test:
Having identified drain odour sources, seek professional assistance to address and rectify the marked plume sites. Following repairs, perform a repeat smoke test to ensure all issues have been resolved.