Smoke testing for leak detection or sources of odor is a method where artificial smoke is pushed through your drain pipes and sewage systems. This smoke then travels throughout those pipes and wherever there are cracks or issues in these pipes, smoke will come out. This non-invasive method reveals issues in your plumbing where there can be leaks, cracks, loose fittings, and other plumbing issues.
The Smoke We Use for Smoke Testing
The smoke we use isn’t actually smoke. This “smoke” is much like the mist or fog that is used in fog machines. We use laboratory tested LiquiSmoke. This artificial smoke is the safest and cleanest way for smoke testing commercial and residential buildings. Our smoke testing machines heat up this special, water-based liquid. This liquid turns into a dense white vapor when it is heated. It is extremely safe, environmentally friendly, and has no offensive odor.
What is Smoke Testing for Leak Detection?
To test for leaks and other plumbing issues, we inject a thick white vapor into the drain pipes or sewer lines. Once the pipes are filled with the vapor, it will start coming out of problem areas. Using this smoke testing method, we can easily see any problems that you may have in your plumbing. By using smoke testing to look for odor problems and leaks, you can catch minor issues before they become major issues. You can preventatively protect your home from future damage caused by plumbing issues.
Smoke testing can detect leaks caused by bad or loose connections, broken pipes, open pipes and fittings or incorrect installation of vents. We can also identify any traps under sinks, shower, drains, tubs or bases that may be missing or incorrectly installed. Testing can also serve as a safety measure. Sewer gas not only has a bad odor but is bad for your health. Gases from the sewer can contain methane gas, which is explosive, or hydrogen sulfide gas, which is deadly.
Have you ever been inside a building, restaurant or even a home with a rancid sewer odor? If you have, then you know it can be difficult to locate exactly where it is coming from since you can’t get a visual on a scent. So what is the solution? Smoke testing. Smoke testing is just another tool used to find leaks or sources of odor in pipes and sewage systems. It is not actually smoke, but the same type substance that comes out of fog machines. It is used to detect sewer gas leaks caused by broken pipes, bad connections, venting issues, open pipes or fittings.
Unusual odors are usually the first identification of a faulty drain or sewer pipe. It has also been used for finding out where rodents and small creatures are finding their way into a home through course of sewer drain lines.
How Much Does Smoke Testing Cost?
Since all homes and plumbing problems are different, the cost can vary. But we can easily give you a free quote over the phone! If you have a sewer gas odor or believe there is a leak in your drain lines, please reach out to us for a free quote over the phone on what the cost would be for smoke testing at 623-551-6688.
Do you think you may have leaks? Be sure and contact us for a free, no obligation estimate for smoke testing for your drain pipes or sewer lines. Wyman Plumbing & Mechanical offers a variety of plumbing services in Anthem, Arizona as well as in other areas in the northern Phoenix Valley.
