How to Use a Sewer Line Test Ball for Better Plumbing

If you've ever had to hunt down a mystery leak in a residential drain system, you already know that a sewer line test ball is one of those tools that seems simple until you actually have to use it. It's essentially a heavy-duty, inflatable rubber ball designed to plug a pipe, but if you don't treat it with a bit of respect, things can get messy—or even dangerous—pretty quickly. Whether you're a DIYer trying to pass a rough-in inspection or just someone trying to figure out why the basement smells like a swamp, understanding how these things work is a total game-changer. ...

April 30, 2026 · 7 min · Kane Shumate