CFPUA to begin smoke testing operations | News

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) – Crews with the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority will begin smoke testing operations Wednesday.

According to the authority, testing will be conducted between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. through Friday.

Smoke testing is a way to locate and identify inflow sources within the sewer system. CFPUA said inflow sources include things like roof drains, yard and area drains, foundation drains, abandoned building sewers, and faulty connections.

According to CFPUA, non-toxic smoke is forced through sewer lines during the testing operation to help locate places where storm and other surface waters are entering the sewers. It will also help reveal sources of sewer odor.

The authority said smoke should not enter the home, but if it does it could indicate defective plumbing or drain traps that have dried up. Most residents and businesses will never see or smell the smoke.

The fire department and emergency services have been notified of the scheduled testing.

Maps and additional information about smoke testing can be found under the "Notifications" section of www.cfpua.org.

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