The City of Spring Hill Waste Water Department will be conducting Smoke Testing of the sanitary sewer system as a continuous preventative maintenance measure. This study will involve the opening and entering of manholes in the streets and public utility easement. This testing will assist in locating breaks and defects in the sewer system. The smoke will also reveal sources of where storm and other surface water enter the sewer system. The testing will begin on Monday, October 9, 2022, with areas affected to be notified before testing commences.
A special non-toxic smoke will be used in these tests. The smoke 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 and adequate ventilation is present.
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.
In advance of testing, building occupants are encouraged to flush all toilets, pour water in all floor drains and run water down all sinks, showers, and bathtubs to ensure sufficient water is in each P-trap within the building. All residents are advised that if traces of this smoke or its odor enter your house or building, it is an indication that gases and odors from the sewer also may enter. The sewer gases can be both unpleasant and dangerous, as well as a health risk to the occupants. Should smoke enter your home or business, it is urgently advised you make a record of where it is noticed and schedule a plumber to inspect your home’s connections to the sanitary sewer collection system. Your cooperation will be appreciated.
The information gained from this testing will be used to improve your sewer services and may reduce the eventual problems. Should you have any questions on this matter, please contact Michael Miller at 615-351-0094.