09/04/2026
Sewer Smoke Testing! Important: Update : CIT will be continuing this smoke testing on Monday September 14th and Tuesday September 15th due to rain.
Starting on September 8th and through the rest of the week. CIT will test the conditions of the sanitary sewer in your area by filling them with a non-toxic, odorless smoke. The test will help us find breaks and defects in the sewer system.
Before the test: Pour 3 glasses of water down every sink, drain, and clean-out drain in your home and basement to make sure your traps are full.
During the test: You may notice smoke coming from vent stacks on houses or holes in the ground. This is normal and not a cause for concern. If your plumbing is intact, smoke from the test should not enter your home.
After the test: if smoke does enter your home, it is an indication that defects in your plumbing could also allow dangerous sewer gases to enter your home. Open windows and doors to ventilate your home and leave the area until the smoke clears. While the smoke is not harmful, it can be irritating. You may want to contact a plumber to further investigate and correct the problem.
More information: The smoke is non-toxic, non-staining, has no odor and does not create a fire hazard. It is white to gray in color and is not harmful to pets.
Why are we testing the sewer? All cities are required to address problems with excess water entering the sanitary sewer system, which overwhelms the capacity of the system, leading to basement back-ups and discharges. The goal is to identify areas where stormwater and groundwater are entering the sanitary sewer system, so the city can plan repairs to improve the system. If you need special assistance or know of any individual in your neighborhood who may need assistance during the test, please contact Strawberry Point City Hall at 563-933-4482.
