For the next few weeks, Orange County Utilities inspection crews will conduct a physical survey of the wastewater collection system in East Orange County. Information gained from this survey will be used to repair and improve the wastewater collection system
Testing of PS3904, located within District 4, Southwest of S. Avalon Park Blvd at Golfway Blvd will begin on Monday Feb. 13th and is estimated to be complete on Friday Feb. 17th.
One important task of the survey will be "smoke" testing of sewer lines to locate breaks and defects in the system. During the "smoke" test, white artificial "smoke" or vapor will exit through vent pipes on the roofs of homes and buildings and through sewer line breaks. The "smoke" should not enter your home or building unless your plumbing is defective or drain traps are dry. Field crews will perform inspections which involve opening and entering manholes in the streets and in backyard easements. At no time will field crews have to enter your residence or business. Your cooperation is appreciated.
What is "smoke" testing and why is it conducted?
"Smoke" testing is one of the most efficient and cost-effective methods of locating sources of inflow and infiltration (I&I). En&I occurs when groundwater or rainwater enters the sewer lines through cracks, breaks, and/or areas not intended to drain to the sewer system, which fills the sewer pipes, causes overflows and flooding, and raises the cost of treatment. The non-toxic "smoke" will help locate these areas of concern which will then be flagged for identification purposes.
Is the "smoke" harmful?
En. The "smoke" is specially manufactured for testing, is not dangerous, and is non-toxic. It leaves no residue or stains and creates no fire hazard. Visible "smoke" and/or "smoke odor" will last only a few minutes in cases of proper ventilation. Sin embargo, if there are people in your home or building that have special needs, please notify Orange County Utilities in order to address your needs prior to the testing.
How is it done?
It is conducted by placing a blower over a manhole and forcing non-toxic "smoke" through a sewer line. The "smoke," under pressure, will fill the main line plus any connections, revealing any unwanted water sources. A green flag will be placed at the location of the smoke to mark the area.
How will I know when and if "smoke" testing is being conducted in my area?
Look for a notice on your door a few days prior to the testing. Contact numbers will be provided should you have any questions or concerns.
What should I do to prepare for "smoke" testing?
To avoid "smoke" from unnecessarily entering your home or building, we suggest you run water into all of your drains prior to when "smoke" testing will be conducted in your area, especially those drains that are used infrequently, such as in the garage and spare bathrooms. This will also help prevent sewer odor and gases from entering your home or building and should be done regularly so that the drains function properly. Make sure to crack windows for ventilation if pets are in the home.
What if "smoke" enters the house or building?
During testing, do not be concerned if you see "smoke" coming from your rooftop sewer vents. This is normal. If traces of "smoke" are detected inside your home or building, it is an indication that gases from the sewer system could also be entering. Sewer gases can be dangerous, and some of these gases have no odor or color and can enter a home or building undetected. If you observe "smoke" inside your home or building during testing, the County urges you to have your plumber locate the source of the leak and take the appropriate corrective measures. Localización, identification, and correction of the source of "smoke" that enters your home or building should be quickly addressed.
What if there is a green flag in my yard?
After testing, you may find a green flag in your yard indicating a location needing correction, and a notice on your door explaining the procedure for resolving the issue. Please do not remove the flag until the correction has been made.
