During June and July, the Inflow/Infiltration Division of the Water Department will conduct smoke tests on the sanitary sewer mains. The test boundaries are W Avenue G on the north, First Street on the east, Miller Road on the south, and S Glenbrook on the west.
Smoke testing of the sanitary sewer system is conducted to identify potential rainwater sources by blowing low pressure, non-toxic, non-staining smoke into a section of sewer line. Smoke emissions from manholes and from the ground indicate defects in the manholes, sewer mains, and sewer laterals through which rainwater may enter the sewer. Reducing the amount of rainwater entering the sanitary sewer pipes reduces the cost of treatment at the two wastewater treatment plants.
A door hanger will be delivered three days in advance to streets where the smoke testing will occur. Since rain or high winds reduce the effectiveness of the testing, a test area may be postponed. Residents will be notified if defects are found on private property.