HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) – The City of Harrisonburg’s Public Utilities Department is conducting its annual testing of the sanitary sewer system.

The effort involves release of a non-toxic and non-staining test smoke into area manholes, which will travel through the sanitary sewer system. The purpose of this testing is to detect any breaks or leaks in the City’s system so appropriate repairs can be made if necessary.

Testing begins this week and will run through November. Community members may notice smoke rising from manhole covers, yards where systems run, or even from their bathtubs, toilets or sinks.

This year’s testing will take place in the following areas:

These businesses and organizations also will see smoke testing in the area:

  • Georges Foods, 501 N. Liberty St.
  • Harrisonburg Public Transportation, 475 E. Washington St.
  • Harrisonburg Redevelopment & Housing Authority, 286 Kelley St.
  • Lucy Simms Continuing Education Center, 620 Simms Ave.
  • Pleasant View, 151 Commerce Drive
  • Rockingham County Government Center, 20 E. Gay St.
  • Shenandoah Valley Organics, 862 N. Liberty St.
This graphic shows how the annual testing works, and where community
members may notice some smoke. Photo courtesy: Harrisonburg Public Utilities

The city has a total of 190 miles of sewer lines and a section of those lines are tested each year. Some smoke will be seen being released from rooftop plumbing vents, which is an indication of a properly installed plumbing system.

Public Works says community members can do the following:

  • Pour one gallon of water into the drain traps of floors, sinks, showers and tubs, which will prevent sewer gases or smoke from entering a home or business.
  • If the non-toxic smoke enters a residence or business, this is a sign of a defect in the plumbing. When this occurs, there is no need to contact emergency services. Open a window or door for ventilation, note the location of the smoke and contact a qualified plumber.
  • Anyone with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should not stay in a building where smoke has entered as a precautionary measure.

Anyone with questions may contact the Public Utilities Department at 540-434-9959.