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Many septic and sewage systems run into a couple of problems over time, but without a comprehensive inspection, these issues tend to worsen beyond repair. Fortunately, there’s an efficient way to pinpoint troubles in your wastewater disposal: smoke testing. Here’s what you need to know about the process.   

What Is Smoke Testing?

Smoke testing is a cost-effective method of identifying hidden problems, such as leaks, cracked pipes, stormwater inflow, flooding sources, and other defects, by introducing artificially produced smoke from a machine into the wastewater system. The smoke then travels the path of least resistance through the connected lines.

Since smoke tends to escape through gaps, even the smallest ones, it allows professionals to recognize trouble spots faster and less intrusively. It’s also useful for finding active leaks, openings that emit a foul odor from the sewer, or areas where floodwater can enter and overload the system.

Is the Smoke Safe?

smoke testingYes. The smoke isn’t harmful to you, your pets, or your plants. It’s not a fire hazard and won’t stain your belongings.

There are two types of smoke commonly used—candles and fluids. Smoke candles are ignited and placed on the blower’s fresh air intake side, producing ample amounts of smoke that is then induced into the sewer or septic system. On the other hand, petroleum-based smoke fluids are injected, heated, and exhausted through the machine’s air intake side.

Although safe, the smoke can make a room uncomfortable. Ventilate the indoors well to make the smoke dissipate quickly. To prevent smoke from entering inside, fill the P-traps of your drains with water. Doing so creates a barrier that keeps out smoke, so if there are dried out drain traps, expect plumes to emerge during testing.

What Happens After?

Professionals will flag the areas where smoke emerged—these indicate breaks or defects in the wastewater system that call for immediate repairs. Before performing repairs, septic specialists will perform another inspection to assess the problem more accurately. Sometimes, the problem can be resolved simply by replacing a cleanout cap, while more extensive repair solutions would be needed for tree root intrusion.

 

 

For the best results on smoke testing, count on the professionals at American Rooter of Watertown, CT. Serving homes and businesses throughout Connecticut and Rhode Island, they’ve provided a range of plumbing services, including septic tank cleaning, drain repair, and pipe lining, for over 38 years. Call (860) 274-7338 to request drain service or check out their services online.

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