Lowell Regional Wastewater Utility Conducting Smoke Tests Across City Starting November 3

Lowell Regional Wastewater Utility (LRWWU) and the City's contractor, Flow Assessment Services, will conduct smoke test surveys across the City of Lowell starting the week of November 3 and lasting until December. Please be advised that during this process, you may see smoke that is white to gray in color coming from building vent stacks, gutters, the ground, or from sewer manholes. The smoke is non-toxic, non-staining, odorless, and is not a fire hazard. The smoke is specifically designed to identify potential system defects, and it is not harmful to humans, pets, or property.

Any individuals with questions or concerns about the smoke or its effects are encouraged to contact Flow Assessment Services, Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 4:00PM: (888) 311-9799

For after-hours concerns, LRWWU maintains 24/7 availability: (978) 674-4248

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to residents; however, this is a critical procedure that is conducted to identify failing portions of sewer lines and inform system improvements that will address these defects.

The map includes the approximate schedule of smoke testing, beginning with portions of the South Lowell neighborhood the week of November 3. Flyers will be distributed at each residence/business 24 to 96 hours before smoke testing is performed on your street. We advise property owners to pour a gallon of water into floor drains/other plumbing fixtures before field work starts to prevent or minimize smoke in buildings. The smoke should not enter your home unless there is defective plumbing or dried up plumbing traps.

IF SMOKE ENTERS YOUR HOME it may indicate there are deficiencies in the plumbing that may allow sewer gas to enter. DO NOT be alarmed - open windows to allow ventilation, and note the location of the smoke emission. Smoke will clear in about 20 minutes or less. DO exit the building and notify smoke testing personnel in the area - they will be nearby, and this is exactly the type of information they are looking to collect. You do not need to be home during smoke testing; however, if you come home and discover smoke, open windows to ventilate and please call Flow Assessment Services (888) 311-9799 or LRWWU (978) 674-4248 to report.

For more information, including a list of FAQs, please visit: https://www.lowellma.gov/637/Wastewater-Utility