WTMA Smoke Testing

To Our Sewer Customers:

The WTMA will be working with Utility Services Group, Inc. (USG) to conduct smoke testing of the sanitary sewer system the week of November 9th through November 30th 2020. This study will involve the opening and entering of manholes in the streets and public utility easements and forcing smoke into the sewer system. An important task of the testing will be to locate breaks and defects in the sewer system. The smoke will also reveal sources of where stormwater, groundwater, and other surface water may be entering the sewer system.

A special non-toxic smoke will be used in these tests. The smoke is manufactured for this purpose, leaves no residuals, or stains, and has no effect on plant or animal life. The smoke has a distinctive, but not unpleasant, odor. Visibility and odor last only a few minutes, where there is adequate ventilation.

Because the plumbing appliances in your house or building are connected to the sanitary sewer system, some smoke may enter your home or place of business if the:

• Vents connected to your building's sewer pipes are inadequate, defective, or improperly installed.

           • Traps under sinks, tubs, basins, showers, and other drains are dry, defective,   improperly  installed, or missing.   

           • Pipes, connections, and seals of the wastewater drain system in and under your

             buildings are damaged, defective, have plugs missing, or are improperly installed.

All residents are advised that if traces of this smoke or its odor enter your house or building, it is an indication that sewer gases and odors from the sewer also may enter. These can be both unpleasant and dangerous, as well as a health risk to the occupants. Should smoke enter your home or business, you may contact a member of the smoke testing crew working in your area or call the WTMA office at (717) 627 – 2379.

The crew member may be able to help and check with you as to where the smoke has entered your building. Location, identification, and correction of the source of smoke that enters your building is urgently advised. Your cooperation will be appreciated.

Should you have any questions on this matter, please contact the WTMA at (717) 627 - 2379.