ROCKPORT, TX – For the next few weeks, beginning Monday December 12th, 2022, inspection crews with Pipeline Analysis will be conducting a physical survey of the wastewater collection system in the Downtown Basin as shown below.

Each year sewer basins are tested to ensure that only sewer flows enter these lines. Large rainfall events force rainwater into the sewer system and it is costly to treat. Smoke testing identifies those areas where infiltration is occurring and improves our system by indicating where repairs are to be made.

The process involves opening manholes in the streets and backyard utility easements and introducing non-toxic white smoke. Smoke may be seen exiting vent pipes on the roofs of homes and where sewer line breaks are occurring. The smoke leaves no residue and creates no fire hazard. The smoke should not enter your home unless defective plumbing exists or drain traps may be dry.

One of most common areas of infiltration occurs when there is an open sewer clean out in a yard. Homeowners are required to have a capped cleanout and may be fined if there is an open cleanout on their property. Please help us keep our sanitary sewer system in good shape by minimizing water infiltration. If there are any questions, please feel free to call 361.790-1160.