Smoke testing to get underway in Turangi
Smoke testing of parts of the wastewater system in Turangi will get underway in the coming weeks to help locate any possible faults and any stormwater connection that might be connected to the sewer.
Smoke testing involves forcing a non-toxic and odourless smoke into the wastewater system via a manhole. The smoke will rise to the surface through any breaks in pipework or through unwanted stormwater connections, thereby allowing us to identify faults in the system and make repairs. Asset manager water and waste Michael Cordell said smoke testing is a common practice around New Zealand and is a fast and cost effective way of locating any potential issues in pipework.
“Stormwater getting into our wastewater pipework is a problem,” Mr Cordell said, “and smoke testing shows us where those entry points are so that we can do repairs. The ‘smoke’ we use is not really smoke but a harmless white vapour – the same non-toxic substance used in smoke machines at concerts. It leaves no residue or stains, is not a fire hazard and will disappear rapidly without leaving an odour, although because any vapour can be an irritant, people with respiratory problems such as chronic asthma or emphysema should avoid direct exposure to it.”
“People may see smoke coming from sewer vents or gutters on roofs of homes, or from building foundations, manhole covers, or cleared sections with existing sewer connections. In rare instances where these vents or parts of the wastewater system beneath a house are defective or improperly installed smoke may enter homes and trigger smoke alarms, so we recommend opening windows and doors if you do notice any of the vapour inside while the tests are underway and notifying the testing team who will be working in your street. The team will be going door to door to let people know when we are carrying out the tests and they are happy to help with any questions the community may have.”
The first streets to be smoke tested are Kahurau Drive, Hangarito Street, Wharetuku Street, Manawa Street, Torouka Street, Ngaumu Street, Katarina Street, Hangarito Street, Kaharua Drive and Atirua Road. Turanga Place, Ohuanga Road, Te Whakarau Street, Raukura Street, Te Reiti Tamara Grove, Nghana Place will be tested later in the month weather permitting.