Smoke Testing is a method of finding leaks in plumbing and sanitary sewer systems. It is primarily used to find places where ground water and storm runoff can enter the sanitary sewer system.
Non-toxic artificially created smoke is forced into the sewer pipe or either via manholes or overflow relief gullies. Plumes of smoke escape from vents within the sewer system or from defective connections or sewer components. Defective connections may be illegal stormwater connections or broken/defective seals around household drainage systems. Smoke may also escape through defective manhole components, broken pipes and unsealed manholes. It is particularly useful where completely sealing the system is not practical such as ventilated sanitary sewer systems.
Smoke testing is not typically helpful in assigning a condition score to an asset, however does assist with identifying illegal connections or unsealed sewer componentry, which once rectified will reduce infiltration.
