Above / Testing with non-toxic smoke, as pictured, will help prevent sewer backups. (Photo courtesy City of Naperville)
Smoke testing to identify the location of leaks and connections where stormwater can enter the sanitary sewer system is scheduled to begin the week of June 20 in several neighborhoods across the City. Testing is expected to be complete by the end of October, pending weather or unforeseen circumstances.
During smoke testing, air combined with non-toxic smoke is forced into sewer lines. Smoke can be seen coming out of the ground where there are defects in the lines. Smoke testing helps prevent inconvenient and expensive sanitary sewer backups and identifies roof drains, patio drains and footing drains that are connected to the sewer system.
The smoke used during testing is non-toxic, creates no fire hazard, leaves no residue, dissipates quickly and is harmless; however, those with respiratory issues may wish to take extra precautions, such as leaving the area for a few hours until testing is complete. Smoke will not enter buildings unless there is defective plumbing or dried-up drain traps. It is expected – and normal – for smoke to come out of the sewer vent stack on the roof of a building during the test.
Door hanger cards will be posted at affected properties immediately prior to testing, and the public can expect to see signs at intersections when crews are testing nearby.
For details about sanitary sewer smoke testing and a map of affected areas, visit naperville.il.us/smoketest.
