Smoke testing is used to find possible leaks in the sanitary sewer system. During this test, non-toxic, artificially created smoke (like a fog machine at a concert) is blown into access points (manholes) in the pipe. This smoke will escape through defects in the pipe, such as holes or cracks, or through illicit connections, such as roof leaders, and be visible above ground. Plumes coming from plumbing vents and manhole rims are normal. The plumes may be marked with flags, and defects will be noted. The plumes or markers may also be photographed. The fire department will be notified of smoke testing plans.

When you receive notice that smoke testing will take place, please make sure all drain traps under sinks, toilets, washing facilities, and floor drains have water in them. To fill them, simply run each faucet for 30 – 60 seconds, flush toilets, or fill any floor drains with about 3 cups of water.

No.

The smoke is not harmful to pets. It would be a good idea to leave several windows partially open for ventilation, should any smoke enter the building. If you have proper plumbing connections and all of the drain traps have water in them, there should not be any problems.

No. It may make you cough, but it is not harmful to your health and will not harm clothing, drapes, or furniture.

If smoke enters your home during testing, please notify the contractor immediately at 757-353-1521, open windows to allow ventilation, and note the location of the smoke. Smoke inside your home can help identify bad plumbing connections or a cracked seal around a toilet. Smoke alarms may also sound. The smoke will clear within a few moments. The amount of time required will depend upon how much smoke enters the building and how much ventilation you can provide.

HRSD has retained Burns & McDonnell to manage the testing. Burns & McDonnell plans to use the services of RJN Group to conduct the investigative tests.

No. The smoke is made up of a vaporous substance. 

An engineer will review the investigation information and make a recommendation, which will be reviewed by HRSD staff and shared with you.