Sewer pipe leakage testing is accomplished by isolating a section of sewer line and introducing smoke into the line utilising a smoke blower and smoke-generating device. Lines are first isolated using pipe plugs. Then smoke is introduced into the sewer system.
Why is this necessary?
To detect leaks in the sewer network where storm water entry is occurring, with the result of reducing storm water infiltration to the sewerage system (which can cause sewage surcharges). Smoke testing involves pumping training smoke (non toxic) into the sewerage system or pipe work and observing any smoke release above ground, such as coming out of a building’s storm water gutter or the ground. Where smoke is observed coming out of the gutter on an individual’s premises, this indicates that a storm water down pipe has been illegally connected to the sewerage system.
Reducing inflow and infiltration saves costs from treating groundwater at waste water treatment plants. The Environmental Protection Agency has instructed municipalities to eliminate inflow and infiltration into sewer systems. Smoke testing sewer systems is an effective way to accomplish this goal.
