New Canaan To Conduct Sewer System Smoke Testing

Information via the town of New Canaan

NEW CANAAN, CT — The town, in conjunction with AECOM, has contracted Flow Assessment Services to conduct sewer system smoke testing for the purpose of locating sources of storm water inflow to the sanitary system.

According to a news release provided by the town, the study will locate direct and indirect connections such as catch basins, area drains, roof drains, broken sewer pipe and deteriorated pipe joints.

During this test, harmless white smoke is introduced through the sanitary sewer system via a a smoke-generating machine, according town officials.

During this procedure, white smoke will be venting from holes in manhole covers located on the street and plumbing vent pipes located on or near roof surfaces. According to town officials, this is normal and should not be cause for alarm.

Smoke should not enter your premises unless there is a dry trap in your basement floor drain or any unused plumbing fixtures. You may wish to pour some water down your basement drain or unused plumbing fixture to ensure that the drain trap will be effective, town officials said.

Smoke could also enter the building through defective plumbing. The owner should note this because gases from the sewer system may possibly enter your building through the defective plumbing, according town officials.

Should smoke be detected within the building, do not be alarmed; the smoke is non-toxic and non-staining. Simply ventilate the home and report the presence of smoke to the people conducting the test outside in the vicinity of your building. If possible, they will assist you in locating the source that allowed the smoke to enter the building, town officials said.

PLEASE NOTE

• You are not required to be home when the testing is being performed on your street.
• The testing will be performed 24 to 72 hours after this notification is received.
• Weather, holidays and weekends may shift test periods beyond the 24 to 72 hour timeframe.
• Please contact flow assessment services at 1-888-311-9799 should you have any questions or concerns.