Smoke Testing of the Sanitary Sewer System in Elmira

Why?
The test will be performed as a first step to identifying the connection points for roof downspouts, catch basins, and other water inlets to the sanitary sewer or storm sewer.

When?
The testing program is expected to begin on May 26th until June 6th, 2025. Your street will only be tested once and should be completed within two hours.

What is Smoke Testing?
Smoke testing consists of blowing smoke into the sewers and canvassing the area above ground and document locations where smoke is observed (e.g. from catch basins). The smoke used in the test has no odour, is not harmful to your health, and will disappear within minutes.

What do I need to do?
• Check to see that all plumbing traps under sinks, washing facilities and floor drains have water in them. Pour a few cups of water into your basement floor drains, and any sinks, showers, or other plumbing fixtures before smoke testing starts.
• If smoke enters your home and you experience smoke irritation, please leave the affected area and the irritation will quickly subside.
• If you, or any member of your family have a health condition that you feel we need to be aware of please contact the Township’s project manager at (519) 669-6031.

The fire department will be notified of the streets being tested. If you have doubt about the origin of smoke, always contact the fire department at 911, or non-emergency communications line at 519-570-9777 and they can determine if the smoke is related to the testing or if the fire department needs to be dispatched.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is the smoke harmful?
No, if the smoke enters your home, it may make you cough, but it is not harmful to your health and will not harm pets, clothing, draperies or furniture.

What Should I do to prepare for smoke testing? 
Ensure all plumbing traps have water in them as soon as you receive this notice. To do so, pour a few cups of water down each drain, sinks, washing facilities and floor drains. You may also wish to leave a few upstairs windows open a small amount, if you feel it is safe to do so during the testing period.

Do I need to stay home for the duration of the test?
No, you do not need to be home when testing is being performed.

What is the purpose of smoke testing?
The purpose of the testing is primarily to find potential points where storm water enters sanitary sewers.

What does it mean if smoke enters my house?
It might mean there are deficiencies in the plumbing that may also allow sewer gas to enter your home. The common cause are dry pluming traps that allow smoke to enter.

What should I do if smoke enters my house?
If smoke does enter your home, note the location of the smoke, pour some water down the drain and open windows for ventilation. Contact the Field Inspector, Chris Arneill, at (905) 329-8051, and he will visit your address.

If smoke gets into the house, how long does it take to dissipate?
The smoke will dissipate in a few minutes. Open windows for ventilation.

Should you have any further questions please contact Ian Vaughan at the Township at (519) 669-6031 or ivaughan@woolwich.ca. On the day of testing, please contact the Field Inspection Lead, Chris Arneill, at (905) 329-8051.