Sanitary Sewer Smoke Testing Begins Monday in Corvallis

The smoke used for testing is not toxic, and will not harm people, pets or food.

Photo: City of Corvallis

(CORVALLIS, Ore. ) - Smoke testing of sanitary sewers will begin June 18th in northeast Corvallis, east of Hwy 99W and north of Walnut Blvd.

Residents will be notified at least 24 hours before testing begins in their neighborhood.

Work will be conducted between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

The city's flow monitoring program has identified this area as having a significant amount of storm water entering the sewer system during a rain event.

The water can enter through cracks in pipes and manholes.

Unwanted storm or surface water in a sanitary sewer system can overload the capabilities of the wastewater treatment plant.

Eliminating leaks will help save the cost of treating the excess water.

Possible leaks are identified by introducing smoke into the pipe system and observing where it escapes from the pipes.

These locations may indicate problems with the sewers which will require either public or private repairs to be performed at a future date.

It is unlikely smoke will enter homes or businesses. However, smoke may enter if plumbing is not properly installed or maintained.

If smoke should enter, residents should open the windows and ventilate with fans.

If smoke does appear, it is a helpful indicator that interior plumbing problems may need repair.

It also may simply indicate the absence of water in plumbing traps or other fixtures that haven't been used in a long time.

The smoke used for testing will not damage clothing, drapes or furniture.

It is not toxic, and will not harm people, pets or food.

The smoke may be irritating to those with respiratory problems, so residents with respiratory problems who notice smoke should move to a ventilated area or go outside.

Chances of smoke entering homes can be minimized by checking that drain traps are filled with water and pouring water down drains that are not used frequently.

Residents may call the Public Works Department at (541) 766-916 if they have any questions on how to do this.

While tests are conducted, residents may see smoke at the ground surface indicating cracks in the sewer lines or smoke coming from roof vents and down-spouts which are improperly installed.

If smoke appears in a back yard during testing, the city will need to investigate the source of smoke.

Residents who have been notified of smoke testing in their neighborhood are asked to leave gates unlocked for access to their yards.

Residents are also asked to keep pets from running loose.

Workers will not enter homes and residents need not be present.