Smoke Testing

Sewer Smoke Testing Find Hidden Leaks Fast

Montana Drains We Make The Difficult Easy

The Method

Professional Diagnostic Service


Safely locate cracks, illegal connections, missing caps, and infiltration sources in your sewer system — without excavation. Non-toxic smoke reveals problems that cameras can miss. Non-Toxic Smoke No Digging Required Same-Day Available Bozeman • Big Sky • Livingston



Call (406) 539-4140 How It Works


Ideal When You Have:


  • Unexplained sewer odors indoors or outside
  • Recurring backups or slow drains
  • Suspected illegal storm connections
  • Pre-purchase or municipal inspections
  • High infiltration & inflow (I/I) concerns
  • Need to verify repairs or locate cleanouts

What Is Sewer Smoke Testing?


Sewer smoke testing is a proven, non-invasive diagnostic technique used by professionals and municipalities across the country. We introduce a dense, non-toxic, odorless white smoke into the sewer lines under controlled low pressure.

The smoke travels through the entire system and escapes only where there are openings — cracks, broken joints, missing cleanout caps, faulty seals, or improper connections. Visible smoke pinpoints the exact location of problems that would otherwise remain hidden underground or inside walls.

It’s fast, safe for people, pets, and landscaping, and leaves no residue. Most residential tests are completed in under two hours.


Smoke Follows the Path of Least Resistance


Where the system is tight, smoke exits only at proper roof vents. Anywhere else it appears — yard, foundation, floor drains, or walls — reveals a defect that needs attention. Montana Drains documents every finding with photos and a clear report so you know exactly what to repair.

Why Smoke Testing

Benefits That Save You Time & Money

Discover problems early — before they become expensive digs, backups, or regulatory issues.


Pinpoint Accuracy

Instantly see the exact location of leaks, cracks, and openings that camera inspections can miss.


Zero Digging

No trenches, no destroyed landscaping, no concrete cutting. The test is completely non-destructive.


Safe & Non-Toxic

The smoke we use is specially formulated to be harmless to people, pets, plants, and property.


Fast Results

Most residential tests take 1–2 hours. You get clear answers the same day with a documented report.


Cost-Effective

Find issues early and avoid costly emergency repairs, property damage, or treatment plant overload fees.


Municipal Ready

Ideal for I/I reduction programs, cross-connection surveys, and compliance with local requirements.

Simple Process

How Sewer Smoke Testing Works


A straightforward, low-disruption process performed by trained Montana Drains technicians.


  1. Preparation
    We notify occupants, check P-traps, identify access points (manholes or cleanouts), and seal the section being tested.
  2. Introduce Smoke
    A specialized blower forces non-toxic smoke into the sewer main and connected laterals under gentle, controlled pressure.
  3. Observe & Trace
    Our team watches for smoke exiting at roof vents (normal) or anywhere else — yards, foundations, floors, or walls.
  4. Document & Report
    Every defect is photographed and mapped. You receive a clear written report with repair recommendations.

What Smoke Testing Can Detect

From small residential issues to system-wide municipal problems.


  1. Cracked or Broken Pipes Main lines and laterals with structural damage
  2. Illegal Storm Connections Downspouts, sump pumps, or yard drains tied into sanitary sewer
  3. Missing Cleanout Caps Open access points allowing debris and groundwater entry
  4. Faulty Seals & Joints Loose fittings, failed gaskets, and separated connections
  5. Root Intrusions & Openings Pathways that let roots and groundwater into the system
  6. Uncapped or Abandoned Lines Old service laterals left open after renovations
  7. Floor Drain & Trap Issues Dry traps or seals allowing sewer gas into buildings
  8. Manhole & Structure Defects Cracks or openings in manholes that admit surface water



Stop Guessing. Start Locating.


Hidden sewer defects don’t fix themselves. Let Montana Drains reveal the problem with safe, accurate smoke testing so you can fix it right the first time.