Pro-Pipe Services will be smoke testing the wastewater system in your neighborhood between Monday, December 5 through Friday, December 30.

Planned testing will help Oak Lodge Water Services locate leaks and breaks in the collection lines. The “smoke” used for testing is a water vapor that is completely safe for people, plants and pets – it is white in color, non-toxic, odorless, non-staining, and does not pose a fire risk.

On the outside of your house or your neighbor’s house you may notice smoke coming from plumbing vents, gutters, downspouts, and out of the ground. This is normal and will stop when the testing is completed. Testing usually lasts 2 to 4 hours.

Smoke or its odor should not come into your house if your plumbing is in good working order and your plumbing traps (the U-shaped pipes under each drain) are filled with water. You can run water into sinks, tubs, showers, and floor drains that are used infrequently to make sure your traps are filled with water. If smoke does enter your house, it is a good idea to identify the location because it means sewer gas (which can be dangerous) may also be able to enter your house.

For questions about the smoke testing work being performed in your area please email brada@olwsd.org or call (503) 353-4202.