The City of Inkster is conducting a Smoke Test of its Sanitary Sewer System

A “SMOKE TEST” survey will assist our inspection crews in locating breaks and defects in our sewer system.

What is the benefit to my town for performing a Smoke Test?

Smoke Testing is one technique utilized to identify sections of sewer that may exhibit inflow during heavy rainfall. Smoke Testing is the best method to detect inflow sources such as roof leaders, cellar, yard, and area drains, foundation drains, abandon building sewers, faulty connections, illegal connections, and stormwater drainage systems cross-connections. It can also detect structural damages & leaking joints in sewer pipes & overflow points in sewer systems.

Work Crews from Alfred Benesch & Company, Engineers for the City of Inkster, will be performing smoke testing on Friday, August 27, 2021, in your area 

What exactly is a Smoke Test?

A crew will use a high-capacity blower smoke technique to test each sewer line. Smoke blowers are placed on manholes & smoke is blown through the sewer system. Anywhere the smoke exits, there is potential for stormwater to enter the sewer system. 

Is the smoke that you use hazardous?

NO! The smoke that comes out of the vent stacks on houses or holes in the ground is non-toxic, harmless, and has no odor. It does not create a fire hazard. 

Do City residents have to do anything to prepare their homes for Smoke Testing?

All drains and traps should always be filled with water to prevent sewer gases from entering the building BE SURE THIS INCLUDES ALL BASEMENT DRAINS. About 3 cups of water should be poured into the floor & sink drains, filling the traps to prevent smoke from entering the home. If the smoke does enter, the resident should consult a local licensed plumber. If harmless smoke can enter through faulty plumbing, the potential exists for dangerous sewer gases to also enter the home. Should smoke enter your building or home during smoke testing, contact Dan Guastella, of the smoke testing crew, provide your name, address, and phone number if you are unable to reach the crew. 

Does the resident need to be home when the Smoke Testing is performed?

Homeowners DO NOT need to be home during smoke testing, and at no time will field crews need to enter the residence. The smoke testing crew will be noticeable documenting the testing, taking photos, and measuring distances so that the defects may be found at a later date and - repaired. 

Questions or concerns call Maya Roots (Inkster)@ 313-563-9774 or Dan Guastella (Benesch) at 313-234-0307