Lowell Regional Wastewater Utility Initiates Sewer System Smoke Testing in Three Neighborhoods
The Lowell Regional Wastewater Utility (LRWWU), in collaboration with its contractor Flow Assessment Services, has commenced sewer system smoke testing in the Highlands, Pawtucketville, and Sacred Heart neighborhoods of Lowell, Massachusetts. This testing began this week and is scheduled to continue over the next three weeks in November. The process involves introducing white, non-toxic, non-staining, and odorless smoke into the sewer pipes using a fan powered by a gasoline engine. This smoke helps identify defects, leaks, and potential entry points into the sanitary sewer system that are otherwise difficult to detect. Residents in affected areas will receive door hangers 24-96 hours prior to testing, providing advance notice. Field crews, identifiable by Flow Assessment markings and ID badges, will operate red Chevrolet box-style vans. Each individual test typically lasts between 10 to 30 minutes.
