News Flash

Beginning June 21st, the Department of Water Quality Control will be smoke testing the sanitary sewer system in various locations of Cookeville including the Cane Creek area. Smoke testing will involve blowing smoke into the sewer lines and searching for sources of storm water and ground water entering the sanitary sewer system.

A special non-toxic smoke manufactured for this purpose will be used.  The smoke leaves no residuals or stains and has no effects on plant or animal life.   The smoke has a distinctive, but not unpleasant odor.  Visibility and odor lasts only a few minutes, where there is adequate ventilation. 

If your house is connected to the sewer, smoke should be visible leaving the plumbing vents on the roof of your house.  If you have defective plumbing or drains that have not been used for some time, smoke may enter the house.  Residents should pour water down any drains that have not been used recently to fill the trap.  This should prevent smoke from entering the house.  If traces of smoke or its odor enter your house or building, it is an indication that gases and odors from the sewer can also enter.  The odors and gas from the sewer can be both unpleasant and dangerous as well as a health hazard to the occupants.  Identifying the location of the smoke entering the building and correcting the problem is urgently advised.

While the City will render all possible cooperation, especially in identifying the source of the problem, the correction of any defects in the pipes and sewers on private property is the responsibility of the owner.  We strongly recommend that you correct any problems discovered inside your house for your own health.  Per City Ordinance, property owners will be required to repair all leaks on private property which may allow rainwater to enter the sewer.  This includes repairing any defects in the sewer lateral or clean-out and removing roof drains, gutters, or sump pumps that are connected to the sewer system.

Smoke testing is scheduled to begin the week of June 21st.  Door hangers will be distributed to properties affected by this project approximately 24 - 48 hours prior to smoke testing.  If you have any questions, please call Matthew Phillips at the Water Department at 520-5362.