Smoke Testing: Find the Source. Fix the Problem.
Persistent sewer odors can be frustrating, unpleasant, and difficult to diagnose. Many times, the source isn’t visible and can’t be identified through a standard plumbing inspection alone.
At JEM Plumbing, we utilize advanced smoke testing technology to quickly locate hidden plumbing leaks, faulty venting, and sewer gas escape points throughout your home or commercial building.
Using our state-of-the-art Ehle Electric Vapor Fogger, we introduce a safe, non-toxic, oil-free smoke into your plumbing vent system. The smoke travels through the entire drainage and vent network, making even the smallest leaks immediately visible.
Instead of guessing where the odor is coming from, we can pinpoint the exact location and recommend the proper repair.
How Smoke Testing Works
Our smoke testing process safely fills your plumbing vent system with a specially formulated, non-toxic vapor.
As the smoke travels through the system, it will escape from any area where sewer gases are also escaping, including:
- Cracked or damaged drain piping
- Loose or deteriorated pipe joints
- Failed plumbing vent connections
- Defective roof vent penetrations
- Hidden leaks inside walls
- Basement stack leaks
- Under sinks and cabinets
- Floor drains
- Improper plumbing installations
- Sewer vent issues throughout the building
When the light, slightly sweet-smelling smoke appears, it provides an immediate visual indication of where sewer gases are escaping—allowing our technicians to focus directly on the source of the problem.
Smoke test in drain stack
Smoke Test on shower trap to find odor source
Smoke test to find odor source in attic
Safe for Family, Pets, & Property
Our smoke testing solution is specifically designed for plumbing inspections and is:
✔ Non-toxic
✔ Oil-free
✔ Leaves no residue
✔ Safe for indoor and outdoor use
✔ Safe around children and pets
✔ Will not activate smoke alarms when used properly
The smoke dissipates quickly after testing, making it a safe and effective way to inspect plumbing systems without damaging your home or business.
Can’t Find Persistent Sewer Odor?
Smoke testing is an excellent solution for:
- Unexplained plumbing smells
- Home inspections
- Commercial buildings
- Apartment complexes
- Schools and public facilities
- Restaurants
- Industrial buildings
- Locating hidden plumbing leaks
- Verifying plumbing vent systems
- Diagnosing recurring sewer gas issues
Find the Problem instead of Guessing
One of the biggest advantages of smoke testing is that it transforms an invisible problem into a visible solution. As the harmless smoke travels through your plumbing system, every leak, failed seal, disconnected vent, or damaged pipe becomes easy to identify. That means faster diagnostics, more accurate repairs, and confidence that the true source of the sewer odor has been found.
Sewer odors often originate from locations that cannot be seen during a standard inspection. Rather than opening walls or replacing plumbing unnecessarily, smoke testing allows our technicians to diagnose the issue with speed and precision.
Our investment in professional-grade smoke testing equipment means we can identify hidden defects, explain exactly what we’re seeing, and recommend the most effective repair—saving you time, money, and unnecessary guesswork.
Smoke Test in attic access to find odor source
About the Author: Heather Mantel
Heather is Vice President at JEM Plumbing, Inc. and has worked alongside husband Jeremy, since the beginning and launch of JEM in 2013. Heather loves meeting new people, and enjoys talking with customers, getting to know Supply Reps, fellow entrepreneurs and being a part of BNI and the Akron/Canton PHCC (Plumbing, Heating Cooling Contractors, Association).
