Tampa Testing Underground Wastewater Pipes with Smoke

From the City of Tampa:

The City of Tampa's Wastewater Department has started the smoke test inspections of 340,000 feet of collection system pipes. The purpose of these tests are to find deficiencies in our collection system such as holes, cracks, loose connections, etc., that allow the entry of stormwater during heavy rain events.

The inspection consists of blowing a specially manufactured non-toxic smoke through manholes. During the testing, you may see smoke exiting the manholes in the street as well as through the sewer vent stack(s) on your roof. These tests will take place in most areas of the city and are expected to last through mid-October.

Prior to beginning the smoke testing, the Department contractor, Altair Environmental, will place door hangers on the front door of every building in the area to be smoke tested at least 24 to 48 hours in advance. Once you have received that notice, you are asked to run water down all your drains in your building (floor drains, sinks, showers, tubs, etc.) for at least one minute to ensure that the drain traps are filled with water to keep smoke from entering your building.

For additional information, frequently asked questions, and maps that will show which areas of the city are being tested during the current week, visit tampagov.net/dept_wastewater. The location maps will be updated weekly on the department website. Smoke test location sites will be updated daily on Alert Tampa.