About Sewer Smoke Testing

Smoke Testing is used to check connections on Ottumwa's Sewer system.  The testing blows a non-toxic vapor through the sewer pipes to locate breaks in the sewer revealed by escaping smoke. Locations for defects may include roof downspouts, uncapped cleanouts, driveway drains, stairwell drains, yard or area drains, window well drains, foundation-perimeter drains and defective service pipes.  The smoke used is specially designed for this purpose; it can carry a faint odor, is non-toxic and does not create a fire hazard. As part of the test, smoke usually can be seen exiting the roof vents (stacked vent) on homes.  On a windy day smoke may roll down by the overhangs creating a look like its coming out the roof.

The smoke should not enter into buildings unless leaks or plumbing defects exist.  Residents in the test area should make sure that traps for all basement floor drains and other sink traps and plumbing fixtures are full of water by pouring approximately 24 ounces of water in each drain.  The smoke may set off smoke alarms if it enters a home. If you detect smoke in your building, the room should be ventilated through an open window or door.  If the smoke is thick, residents are advised to leave the building until the smoke clears.  If this occurs, immediately contact the City's Engineering Department at 683-0680.   If the smoke can enter through defective plumbing, the potential exists for dangerous sewer gases to enter the building.  In that situation, the resident should consult a licensed plumber as soon as possible.

Smoke testing activities move fairly quickly, only requiring a few hours in each neighborhood. The information gained from these activities will be used to improve the sewer services. Citizens with questions about smoke testing can call the City Engineering Department at 683-0680, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday.