Othello to test sewer pipe with non-toxic smoke

OTHELLO – Testing for possible leaks in Othello’s sewer mains will start Monday, Feb. 24. Work should be completed by Monday, March 2.

The city of Othello is contracting with American Leak Detection to test 60,000 feet of sanitary sewer mains for leaks, improper connections and plumbing problems. The area between Broadway and Seventh avenues will be tested. The city will alert residents and building owners a day or two before their block is to be tested. American Leak Detection anticipates completing 10,000 feet of testing per day.

“This is the first step of the city’s program to reduce the amount of groundwater and stormwater entering the city’s sanitary sewer system and flowing through the treatment plant,” said Shawn O’Brien, city engineer for the city of Othello.

Smoke testing is the method that will be used. The smoke is non-toxic and will not cause harm to residents or building occupants.

Occasionally, smoke will be seen coming out of drains. If this happens, it indicates that the plumbing has not been done properly. If a problem is indicated, owners should contact Othello Building Official Tim Unruh to apply for a plumbing permit and hire a plumber or contractor to correct the problem.

Any questions about the project should be directed to O’Brien or Unruh at 509-488-5686. Citizens are asked not to ask the crews working on the street about the project, as it will slow them down and extend the length of the project.

The city of Othello is paying American Leak Detection $21,080 to perform the tests.