Sanitary Sewer Smoke Testing

The Township of Middle will be conducting a non-toxic smoke test within the sanitary sewer system in the Rio Grande area on or about January 7-10, 2025.

This test involves blowing smoke into the sanitary sewer lines to check for leaks, breaks and defects in the system.

If there is any individual in your home or business who has respiratory problems and is immobile, please contact the Middle Township Sewer Department at (609) 465-8713.

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Smoke Testing FAQs

What is the purpose of smoke testing?

This smoke testing procedure is taking place to identify problems areas in the sewer system, and is part of the Township’s continued effort to provide safe, economical, efficient, and environmentally sound sewer system. Eliminating system defects and improper connections will help our community remain in compliance with federal legislation regarding sewer systems maintenance and sanitary sewer overflows.

How can I prepare for the testing?

In advance of the testing date, please pour one gallon of water into all seldom used drains, including floor drains, and flush all toilets. This will prevent smoke from entering your house through working plumbing connections.

What will happen during the testing?

Sewer Line Smoke Testing entails blowing inert smoke into the sanitary sewer manholes to check for defects in the system.  This type of test has been approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as an effective and safe way of identifying problem areas in the sewer system.  It is normal to see lots of white/grey smoke around your neighborhood during smoke testing. Do not be alarmed by this smoke, and do not call the Fire Department unless you see black smoke or have good reason to believe there is an actual fire to report.

Is the smoke harmful?

No. The smoke used for this test is manufactured for these purposes, leaving no residuals or stains, and is not harmful to plants and animals. The smoke is non-toxic and creates no fire hazard.

What should you do if smoke gets into the house?

It should not enter your home or business unless you have defective plumbing or dry sink traps or floor drains. In this case, defective plumbing could be allowing sewer gases to enter your home, which is a potential health hazard. Corrections of such defects on private property are the responsibility of the property owner, and a licensed plumber should be consulted to ensure the proper corrections are made. The presence of smoke in your house should be reported immediately to the personnel conducting the tests, or by calling the Middle Township Sewer Department at (609) 465-8713.

Though the smoke is harmless, residents should avoid prolonged or unnecessary exposure if possible. If smoke does enter your home, try to see where it is coming from inside your home, and then contact the smoke testing work crews immediately at the phone number listed above. Open doors and windows to ventilate the building and remove any people and pets to fresh air until the smoke has cleared. Persons with heart and respiratory ailments should leave the house during the test. Be sure any unattended pets are provided with proper ventilation.

I will not be at home during smoke testing – what should I do?

Some sewer lines and manholes are located along backyard or side yard easements, if these lines require investigation, members of the inspection crew may need to enter your property to access sewer lines and manholes. Homeowners do not need to be present and workers will not enter your home or disturb your property.

What happens if you find a bad sewer or lack of traps in a building?

Smoke that is seen coming from the vent stacks on houses is normal. However, smoke coming from holes in the grounds is not normal and is considered a defect. All such defects will be photographed and logged.

Should you have any questions on this upcoming testing, please contact the Middle Township Sewer Department at (609) 465-8713.