City to Test Sewer Lines Using Colored Smoke

During the week of Aug. 13-16, crews from the City of Poway Public Works Department will begin smoke testing wastewater sewer system lines to verify connections and determine if there are any areas where storm water or groundwater are entering the system.

The area to be surveyed encompasses Hilltop Circle Drive, Malabar Drive, Levita Court, Heath Drive and La Manda Drive.

Colored smoke will be circulated into the sewer lines and manholes to locate broken pipes and other defects. White smoke will exit from the vent pipes on home roofs. The smoke is non-toxic, leaves no residue, creates no fire hazard and is not harmful to plant/animal life. The smoke will not enter the house unless there is defective plumbing present or the drain traps are dry.

To prepare your home, flush all toilets and run a gallon of water into sinks, drains, tubs, and showers to ensure a water seal to keep smoke out. Since interior appliances and plumbing fixtures may be connected to the sewer system, smoke may enter your house if plumbing fixtures are dry because of non-use (like sinks or tubs) or improperly installed; or if vent connections, pipes, or seals are defective or improperly installed. Repair work on private property is the property owner responsibility.

If potential problems are found on private property, residents will be notified that repairs may be necessary.

Smoke testing in this area is expected to continue through Aug. 16.

For more information, residents should call the City of Poway Wastewater Collection Division at 858-668-4719 or visit poway.org/sewer.

-City of Poway