Sewer line smoke testing being completed in South Park and Linsford

The City completes smoke testing every couple of years to help identify cracks and faulty connections in the sanitary sewer system for future maintenance work.

The smoke is a non-toxic, non-staining, and odourless mist. For most people and pets, the smoke should not pose a hazard. Individuals with respiratory conditions should avoid direct exposure to the smoke. If smoke gets inside your home or a building you are in, open windows to immediately ventilate the area.
Residents do not need to report seeing smoke unless they are concerned it is being caused by a fire (call 911). If you have any concerns about smoke testing, contact the City at 780-980-7133.

Crews block off a section of sewer line where smoke is pumped in through a manhole. They look for smoke coming out of the ground, buildings, manholes, storm drains, and any other places that might indicate a problem with the sewer line. These areas are flagged for further examination and repair.

If your plumbing is in good condition and there is water in your drain traps, smoke should not enter your house. It may, however, come out of your roof vent.

Sometimes underused sink traps on faucets or floor drains will allow smoke to enter a building. Run water through all your facets for at least 30 seconds or pour a few cups of water down the floor drain to prevent this.

Open your windows and turn on any ventilation. The smoke should clear within a few minutes. This indicates there is a plumbing problem that could be letting sewer gases inside. This can be caused by:

• A leak in your plumbing
• A sewer vent that vents to your attic or inside your building
• A faulty seal (e.g., in your toilet’s wax ring)
• A missing sink or drain trap

If this happens, consider reaching out to a plumber. Contact the City at 780-908-7133 if you suspect the issue may be with the public sewer line.