What are the two basic tests a sewer?

• A. Pressure and Alignment
• B. Air and Water
• C. Leakage and Flow
• D. Exfiltration and Infiltration

Answer: (A)

Two basic tests a sewer system must pass center on making sure the installed pipe is both tight and properly placed. First, a pressure test checks that the line can hold a specified pressure without leaking at joints or along the pipe. This matters because leaks allow wastewater to escape into surrounding soil, cause odors, and reduce the system’s capacity. Pressure tests are commonly done with air or water, depending on the section and local standards, and they reveal loose fittings, cracked joints, or other workmanship issues.

Second, alignment verification ensures the sewer line follows the intended route with the correct line, grade, and slope. Proper alignment is essential for gravity flow to carry wastewater to the next stage without creating excessive velocity, pockets where solids settle, or the need for future corrections. Even a leak-free pipe can perform poorly if it’s not aligned correctly, leading to maintenance problems down the line.

Together, these checks confirm the system is structurally sound and hydraulically sound. While other observations exist, such as monitoring infiltration or exfiltration or measuring flow, the foundational checks focus on making the line leak-tight and correctly oriented for proper wastewater movement.