Sanitary Sewer Smoke Testing
Smoke Testing Process
GRU works to maintain and improve the efficiency of GRU’s sanitary collection system and treatment plants and to prevent sewer overflow and backups. The sanitary sewer collection system and treatment plants have a maximum flow capacity of wastewater that can be handled. Rainwater and groundwater entering the sewer system takes up this capacity and can result in sewer overflows, sewer backups in homes, and unnecessary costs for treatment of this water. It can even lead to unnecessary expansion of the treatment plants to handle the extra capacity. These costs get passed on to the consumer.
To identify and eliminate points where rainwater and groundwater can enter the collection system, GRU wastewater collection crews will be smoke testing the sanitary sewer lines. Door-to-door notices will be given to all homes and buildings on the streets to be smoke tested at least 24 to 48 hours in advance.
What you will need to do:
Prepare ALL drains (such as floor drains, garage sinks, etc.) by filling the p-traps with water:
• Run the faucet for 60 seconds
• Filling the drain with approx. 1 gallon of water
• Flush toilets
Any person with respiratory conditions such as emphysema or asthma should avoid exposure to the smoke. The smoke should not enter the building but can if plumbing drains are dry or if piping in or under the house is defective.
Download the Smoke Testing Flyer, and if you have questions after reviewing this material, contact GRU at 352-334-2711.
Smoke Testing FAQs