What is a Sewer Test?

A sewer test, specifically a Sewer Pressure Test, is a procedure used to verify the integrity of your sewer line.

Purpose of a Sewer Test

The primary goal of a sewer test is to:

Identify leaks: Detect any leaks or cracks in the sewer lateral.
Prevent issues: Ensure wastewater does not contaminate surrounding soil or groundwater.
Verify integrity: Confirm the sewer line is functioning correctly between your home and the property line cleanout.

A sewer pressure test checks the section of your sewer line connecting your home to the main sewer system, specifically:

Sewer Lateral: The pipe that carries wastewater from your house to the municipal sewer line.
Property Line Cleanout: The access point to your sewer lateral located at or near your property line.

Sewer pressure tests are crucial because:

Leaks are harmful: Leaking sewer lines can contaminate soil and groundwater and create unsanitary conditions.
Prevent costly repairs: Early detection of issues can prevent more extensive and costly repairs in the future.
Compliance: Often, sewer tests are required during real estate transactions or building renovations to ensure compliance with local regulations.

While specific methods might vary, a basic sewer pressure test generally involves:

Blocking the Line: Sealing the sewer line at both ends, typically at the house and the property line cleanout.
Introducing Water: Filling the sealed section of the sewer lateral with water to a specific pressure.
Monitoring Pressure: Observing the pressure for a set period. If the pressure drops significantly, it indicates a leak in the line.

Passing: The sewer line holds the water pressure, indicating no significant leaks.
Failing: The pressure drops, revealing a leak that needs to be repaired before the line is considered fully functional.

Test Aspect	Description
Test Type	Pressure Test
Location	Sewer Lateral between house and property line cleanout
Purpose	Detect leaks and cracks in the sewer line
Outcome	Pass or fail based on pressure hold