On Monday, May 18, the Evansville Water and Sewer Utility (EWSU) will begin working with Wessler Engineering to conduct smoke testing and manhole inspections in the Valley Downs neighborhood. The smoke testing is expected to continue for approximately 60 days, weather dependent.
The evaluation is part of a study to reduce rainfall and groundwater from entering the sanitary sewer system in compliance with a federal consent decree. Valley Downs and Timbers Park were identified as a project for the study because of a high amount of rainwater entering the sewer system in those areas.
Smoke testing uses a large percentage of atmospheric moisture that is highly visible at low concentrations and is introduced into the sanitary sewer system via fans. The smoke allows technicians to visually see if there are defects in the sewer system by seeping out of broken pipes and eroded manhole structures. This “smoke†is non-toxic and will not harm humans, pets, or plants nor will it stain drapes, carpet, or other materials.
Smoke may be seen coming from gutters during testing if they are connected to the sanitary sewer system. Gutters, downspouts and sump pumps tied to the sewer system are considered illegal and must be removed by the property owner.
Smoke should not enter buildings during testing. If smoke gets inside a structure, it could be from a defect in the internal plumbing, such as a bad toilet seal or broken pipe. ETSU is not responsible for plumbing within homes and recommends contacting a plumber to investigate.
A dry-water trap may also allow smoke to enter a home. If fixtures such as sinks, toilets or bathtubs have not been used for a while, running water to make sure the traps are not dry is recommended.
Door hangers notifying residents and businesses in the area about the smoke testing are being distributed. For more information about the project, contact Wessler Engineering at 812-453-0460, or watch these informational videos:
