P.O. BOX 2050
FOLEY, ALABAMA36542-2050
FOLEY OFFICE (251) 943-5001
Smoke Testing of the Sanitary Sewer Collection System
Riviera Utilities will be conducting leak tests of the sanitary sewer system. Smoke testing is a simple and effective means of locating undesirable openings in sewer mains, laterals and manholes that allow storm water or ground water to enter the sanitary sewer collection system.
The testing consists of forcing a special, nontoxic smoke into the sewer lines. The smoke is manufactured for this purpose and leaves no residuals or stains and has no effect on plants and animals.
Typically, smoke should NOT enter residences or other buildings that have an adequate sewer plumbing system. Smoke entering a building is an indication of a deficiency in the building’s plumbing system. If the smoke can enter a building, it means that the building’s plumbing is also allowing gasses from the sanitary sewer system to enter the building as well. This situation can be unpleasant, dangerous and hazardous to one’s health. Plumbing deficiencies may include:
- You have defective, damaged, or improperly installed traps, tubs, basins, shower, pipes and connections, or;
- Infrequently used drains are dry.
- The caps for sewer lateral cleanouts are broken or missing.
RU urgently advises that any source of smoke within a building be located, identified, and corrected by or under the supervision of a licensed plumber in accordance with local codes. In some cases, RU’s smoke testing personnel may be able to provide assistance in locating the general location and source of smoke. However, the correction of any defects in building plumbing systems or in sewer pipes that are on private property is entirely the responsibility of the property owner.
If a deficiency is discovered on private property that allows storm water or other surface waters to enter the sanitary sewer collection system, the location of the deficiency will be indicated with white flags, white marking paint, or a combination of the two. The customer and/or property owner may also be verbally notified of the deficiency by RU personnel. In the coming weeks, RU will follow up with written notification as well. Failure to correct the deficiency within a period agreed upon between RU and the customer/property owner would is a violation of RU’s policies of service and the City of Foley’s ordinances. This could result in interruptions of water/sewer service and/or charges levied to the customer/property owner to reimburse RU for performing the work.
If you have any questions or desire more information, please call 943-5001.
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