Should I do anything to prepare? |
During smoke testing, Wade & Associates field personnel mount a high-capacity smoke blower on top of a manhole. This device rapidly fills the sewer system with a thick, vaporous white smoke. As the possibility exists for smoke to enter a residence via a defect in the sewer pipes, it is recommended to prepare the residence as much as possible so that the 'normal' drains will not permit entry of smoke. A drain trap, the S-shaped curvature in the pipe typically found under sinks, exists to 'trap' a level of water and block gasses from the residence. To prepare for smoke testing, pour a small amount (more than a cup but less than a quart) of water into each floor and sink drain. This will fill the traps and block the smoke. A dry trap will be found in drains which are not used regularly. These can allow smoke to enter the residence. Note the existence in your residence of seldom used floor drains, bathrooms, and deep sinks for dry traps and run water into them. If a sink is left unused for a period of time, traps will normally dry out. |