In plumbing, a smoke test is a method used to identify leaks or faults in a plumbing system by introducing smoke into the pipes and observing where it escapes. The smoke used in these tests is typically created from a non-toxic, artificially produced smoke fluid or tablets designed specifically for plumbing smoke testing.
The smoke fluid or tablets are placed into a smoke machine or smoke blower, which heats the fluid or tablets to produce a dense, white smoke. The smoke is then forced into the plumbing system through an access point, such as a cleanout or roof vent.
As the smoke travels through the plumbing system, it will emerge from any leaks, cracks, faulty seals, or other openings, making them visible to the tester. This allows them to pinpoint the location of the problem areas and make the necessary repairs or adjustments.
It's important to note that the smoke used in plumbing smoke tests is safe and non-toxic. However, it's still advisable to take precautions and ventilate the area during and after the test to ensure the smoke dissipates properly.