Chesapeake In The Know

Smoke testing is an annual preventative maintenance program of the Public Utilities Department used to find defects in the sanitary sewer system. A contractor will pump smoke through the sewer line and look for places along the pipes where smoke leaks out. They then use this information to schedule repairs in the pipes along the right-of-way.

Smoke testing could also bring attention to defects in the sanitary sewer system on your own private property. You’ll know this if smoke leaks into your home during the tests. If it does, that could point to broken pipes, loose couplings, bad wax seals on toilets, and other issues. A certified plumber can help you diagnose the problem.

The smoke is non-toxic, harmless to humans and pets, and will not damage food or material goods. It’s also not a fire hazard. If smoke does enter your home, open windows and, with proper ventilation, it should clear within a few minutes. You don’t have to be home during smoke testing but you might want to leave windows open a crack if you plan to be out, just in case smoke does enter the home. If you have breathing concerns and wish to block your home from this testing, call Public Utilities at 382-3417.

Crews will leave a notice at your door a day or two before they conduct smoke testing on your street. You can also view the contractor’s schedule on the Public Utilities webpages.