How Much Does A Sewer Smoke Test Cost? (Find Out Now!)

Smoke testing for sewers is a simple process. However, professionals usually handle it because there are some dangers involved. But you can do the job yourself if you have the right tools and understand how smoke tests work.

First, plumbers inject thick smoke into the sewer line. That smoke is artificially produced, which means nothing is on fire. Then, you plug the end pipes to trap the smoke. And that’s how you discover sewage leaks and other issues within the system.

Plumbing professionals use smoke tests to avoid more costly assessments. They also smoke test sewer lines before giving price quotes for repairs. So, your estimate depends on whether or not the smoke escapes the pipe in the correct places.

NOTE: Sewage lines in good condition will hold the smoke and release it through designated maintenance holes and vents.

Sewage line smoke tests work because the smoke has a low density. It also carries virtually no mass. That means smoke can pass through clogged pipes without obstructing the path or busting the lines. Thus, it’s one of the most preferred maintenance methods other than using a sewer scope.

You or your plumber can force the smoke-filled air through the system and then observe where it goes. The process doesn’t take long, and the results are relatively accurate. With the air under pressure, your mainline fills up quickly. And after that, you can determine any issues right away.

NOTE: Yearly sewer smoke tests can help you prevent damage and avoid expensive repairs.

In general, smoke tests are the least invasive step during sewer line maintenance. These tests require little to no digging, and plumbers can usually finish the assessment within hours. You can even stay on the property while the test is in session because the smoke is non-toxic.

Sewer smoke tests are extra beneficial when combined with trenchless sewer repair (TSR). Both methods can help homeowners save time and money. Plus, TSR requires minimal digging as well. And that goes even for sewage pipes that you bury deep underground.

However, plumbers can use a wide variety of techniques to troubleshoot leaky pipes. So, there are other options that you can explore. One of those options is called the rubber ball test. But the rubber ball test can be far more invasive, time-consuming, and expensive.

Rubber ball testing for sewage lines isn’t easy either. Plumbers take an inflatable rubber ball and connect it to a long air hose. Then, they insert it into your mainline to root for obstructions. After that, plumbers plug the system manually by inflating the ball so that no water can get past it.

NOTE: You can also use the rubber ball test with trenchless sewer repair, so ask your plumber for more information.

You essentially force smokey air through your sewage pipes and out the other side. But the smoke must be under pressure to travel the length of your lines. So, it’s best to hire a plumber because it can be dangerous to work with pressurized air.

Meanwhile, the mainline of your sewage system fills up fast. Then, the smoke pushes past any obstructions to fill up the connected pipes. That means you can probably do a smoke test without special plumbing equipment. You just need enough force to overcome atmospheric pressure and get the smoke moving.

Inspectors sometimes call sewer smoke tests “smoke bombs,” which can sound intimidating. But there is little to no danger involved with conducting this type of assessment. That’s because the smoke is not only non-toxic, but it’s odorless and colorless as well.

In other words, smoke tests for sewers won’t damage your property, harm your animals, or cause injury in any way. They don’t create a fire hazard, and they seldom disrupt neighbors who connect to the same system. However, you should always tell people about your intentions because surprise smoke tests aren’t enjoyable.

Related Questions

How Do You Check for Sewer Smell?

Does your basement smell like a sewer when you go down there? The stench might be caused by a sewage leak somewhere in your system. So, check for odors elsewhere in the house. Sniff sink drains, ask guests if they smell anything, and hire a plumber if you have other questions.

Who Does the Smoke Testing?

Plumbers are usually the ones who do smoke testing on sewage systems. That’s because they have all the necessary gear for each assessment. Plus, licensed plumbers also know what to do if they discover a leak in your pipes. Meanwhile, most homeowners don’t.Homeowners can still conduct a sewer smoke test whenever they want, though. But some states may require permission to test systems that connect to other lines. So, talk to an expert and make sure your plans are legal where you live.

Why Does My House Smell Like Sewage When It Rains?

Heavy rains can cause your sewer to back up. And if your sump pump isn’t large or strong enough, the smell of sewage could waft around your home. That’s because rainy weather can flood sewage lines in your community. Then, the water has nowhere else to go but back into your house.

Does Homeowners Insurance Pay for Sewer Smoke Testing?

All homeowners insurance companies are different. So, some may cover sewage smoke testing while others may not. Be sure to contact your policy provider for specific information about your coverages and limitations.Most policies include repair for sewer line problems by natural disasters or no-fault accidents. But they might not cover your repair if the cause was negligence. Also, only a handful of insurance providers cover tree root infiltration or damage from unauthorized digging. So, watch out where you bury your sewer pipes.