Vapour testing (also known as smoke testing) sounds a bit scary, but it isn't at all. In fact, it's an important aspect of what we do to ensure that our wastewater network is working.
What happens is contractors will pump a non-toxic vapour, similar to what you see at a concert where smoke machines are used, into a section of the wastewater pipe network. Observers on the streets where they are testing will keep an eye out for any vapour escaping through stormwater drains or rises us out of people's gardens.
This could be a sign of a problem, like a cracked or damaged pipe, damaged manhole or a cross connection between the wastewater and stormwater network. Stormwater entering into the wastewater network can lead to sewage overflows, or it can lead to issues at the treatment plant by increasing our chemical and power useage.
FAQs about vapour testing
We'll send letters to affected properties to advise residents of vapour testing, when it will be taking place and what happens if vapour enters your home.
We'll also post information on our website and social media channels.
Most drains and pipes in homes have U-traps, which help to prevent odours from entering your home through the plumbing. So long as these U-traps have water in them, they should prevent vapour from entering the home.
Don't panic. The vapour is non-toxic to humans, pets, and plants, so all you need to do is open your windows and doors and let it blow out.
Like any vapour, it could cause some minor respiratory issues for people with sensitivities. If you have any concerns, seek medical advice.
It could. If you have concerns about the origins of the vapour or smoke call 111.
Potentially, yes. It could indicate one of the following issues:
- Vents connected to your building's sewer pipes are inadequate, defective, or improperly installed.
- Traps under sinks, tubs, basins, showers and other drains are dry, defective, improperly installed, or missing.
- Pipes, connections and seals of the wastewater drain system in and under your buildings are damaged, defective, have plugs missing, or are improperly installed.
If vapour enters your house or building then please contact your plumber as soon as possible.
Council will collect the information from the contractors to ensure that we have a full an accurate picture of what the wastewater network is doing and the health that it is in.
Where there are issues identified with a private property, we will inform the owner/s of the issue and advise them that corrective action is required.
Where issues are identified in our network, we will look to repair or replace components at our own cost, at the earliest opportunity.
