Sewer smoke tests

Toho has contracted with USSI LLC to conduct smoke tests on the sewer infrastructure in the service area. This safe preventative maintenance test will help identify leaks, defects and stormwater inflows in Toho’s sewer system, thereby improving wastewater treatment operations and efficiency. Please see more details below.

How will residents be notified

Before the tests occur, area residents will be notified by door hanger a few days before. USSI LLC crews who will be in easily recognizable uniforms. Work will take place Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Schedules may change to weather and unforeseen circumstances. Some nighttime monitoring will occur but this does not involve any smoke testing.

Image of technician during a smoke test seeing smoke coming from a sewer line on a property.

How the test works

The test consists of sending smoke into the sewer lines and observing where it escapes in order to determine the location of leaks and defects. Odorless and safe, the smoke leaves no residuals or stains and has no adverse effect on people, plants or animals. The test is not a fire hazard. The test generally lasts about 15 minutes.

Image of smoke test equipment on manhole.

What to expect

While smoke can be expected to be visible coming out of manhole covers and vent stacks in roofs, it should not enter homes. To reduce the likelihood of smoke entering a building, pour 2-3 gallons of water into seldom-used sinks and floor drains, where the smoke could arise due to lack of water pressure. This may be done at any time prior to the test. While The testing focus is to inspect Toho's sewer infrastructure, if problems are found on your property, you will be notified via letter upon the project's completion.

Image of smoke coming from a manhole cover.

Common Questions

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No and they do need to be bathed should they come in contact with the smoke.

No, you do not need to be home at the time of testing. The crews do not need to enter your house unless there is a problem that you want documented. They will not fix a problem on private property. This is the responsibility of the property owner. If the smoke tests reveal any broken or missing sewer cleanout plugs on properties, these will be replaced free of charge.

Contact one of the USSI crew members who will be inspecting outside for leaks and they will be happy to help you figure out where the smoke is coming from, but will not make repairs. This is the responsibility of the property owner. If smoke enters your property, open your doors and windows so it can be aired out.

Most properties will not be affected. A few may have small amounts of smoke enter the property that will dissipate in 5 -10 minutes.

While smoke testing is safe, residents with heart or respiratory conditions may contact USSI at 1-888-645-9570 or 941-926-2646 weekdays between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to inquire about testing schedules and have a call ahead placed, only if needed. This will give you time to leave the house if you so choose while crews are smoke testing.