Foley, AL — Riviera Utilities will begin specialized testing of its sewer system on Monday, August 4th, in the following neighborhoods and areas of Foley:
Marlin Place, River Trace, Sherwood, Pebble Creek, Villages at Hickory, Lafayette Place, Ashford Park, Foley High School, Walmart & Academy shopping centers
Please be aware that we cannot confirm the exact date or time when our crews will be testing in a particular location.
Why we perform smoke testing
Smoke testing locates any potential defects in the sewer mains and service laterals that allow rainfall runoff or groundwater to enter the sanitary sewer collection system. Locating and correcting these defects helps conserve the available capacity of the wastewater collection system, lift stations and treatment facility — protecting the structural integrity of our infrastructure. A sewer smoke test consists of a non-toxic, odorless, and harmless smoke to locate any leaks or defects in a sanitary sewer system.
What to expect or look for during testing
During testing, you may notice smoke coming from manhole lids, sewer cleanouts, the ground above sewer defects, or areas where the sanitary and storm sewer systems are improperly connected. This is normal and helps us identify problems in the system.
Smoke should not enter homes or businesses unless there is a plumbing issue. To prevent this, make sure your drain traps, such as those under sinks, tubs, showers, laundry drains, and unused washing machine hookups, are filled with water. Pour a few cups of water into any drains that are used infrequently to keep the traps sealed and airtight.
It is completely normal to see smoke coming from plumbing vent stacks on your roof. This is not a cause for concern.
If smoke enters your building, it may be a sign of a plumbing deficiency that could allow unpleasant or potentially hazardous sewer gases indoors. Common issues include dry drain traps or improperly installed or defective sewer vents. If this happens, we recommend having your plumbing system inspected by a professional.
About the Smoke Testing Process
Smoke testing is a method approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and has been safely used for over 20 years to assess sanitary sewer systems. The “smoke” used is not actual smoke, but a specially formulated mist made mostly of atmospheric moisture. It is non-toxic, safe for people, animals, and plants, and does not pose a fire risk or leave behind odors, stains, or dust. The mist may carry a mild, distinct scent that is not similar to smoke from fire.
If any mist enters a building, it will clear within minutes with proper ventilation. Opening windows and using ceiling fans can help speed up the process. However, if mist is visible indoors, it signals a plumbing issue that should be identified and repaired by a licensed plumber according to local codes.
Property owners are responsible for correcting any defects found in plumbing or sewer pipes located on private property. If a deficiency is found that allows stormwater or debris to enter the sanitary sewer system, Riviera Utilities will mark the area with white flags, white paint, or both. RU staff may also notify the customer in person, followed by written notification in the coming weeks.
Any unresolved issues must be corrected within the time frame agreed upon by RU and the customer or property owner. Failure to do so may result in service interruptions and/or charges to cover the cost of repairs performed by RU, per RU policies and City of Foley ordinances.
For more information, please call Riviera Utilities during normal business hours at 251-943-5001.
