SANITARY SEWER SMOKE TESTING
What is smoke testing?
The testing involves placing a blower over a manhole to push a non-toxic “smoke” into the sewerline and laterals. Smoke testing identifies private property connected downspouts and other inflow sources such as vents and cleanouts. It also identifies cross connections with the storm sewer system and deficiencies in and around manholes and sewers.
The smoke is WHITE, NON-TOXIC, HAS LITTLE ODOR, CREATES NO FIRE HAZARDS, & WILL DISSIPATE RAPIDLY ONCE THE TEST IS OVER.
Smoke can enter through faulty plumbing. Please pour water into any seldom used drains to fill the traps, which should prevent smoke from entering the building. If smoke does enter, open windows or doors and use a fan for ventilation.
Police & Fire Dispatch are notified prior to the start each day. Residents are mailed postcards with the same information prior to the testing.
For Central Region (CR) District 3 & 6 call 716-823-8188.
For Northern Region (NR) District 1 &4 call 716-684-1234.
For Southern Region (SR) District 2 call 716-549-3161.
Or call the Downtown office at 716-858-8383.
Smoke testing will begin Summer 2024.