The Mountain Home Sewer Department does smoke testing in the sewer system to help locate areas where storm water and other surface waters can and are entering the system and reveal sources of sewer odors. We conduct tests at various times throughout the year using a nontoxic smoke in the sewer lines in different locations within the sewer system. We will post online on the Sewer Departments website, KTLO radio station & Baxter Bulletin newspaper when we start our testing.
See smoke coming from a drain?
Most residents will not see or smell the smoke used during our test. If traces of the smoke or its odor do enter your building, it is an indication that gasses and odors from the sewer may also be entering at other times.
Testing smoke may enter your building if:
- Vents connected to your building’s sewer pipe are inadequate, defective or improperly installed.
- Pipe, connections and seals of the wastewater drain system in and under your building are damaged, defective, missing plugs or improperly installed.
- Traps under sinks, tubs, basins, showers and other drains are dry, defective, improperly installed or missing. Running water through all sinks, tubs and floor drains upon receipt of testing notification from the town can reduce the chance of smoke entering due to dry traps under sinks, tubs, basins, showers and other drains.
What should I do if testing smoke enters my building?
Report the presence of smoke in your building during testing by calling the sewer department at 870-425-5115. We also recommend that you locate where the smoke is entering and contact a plumber to correct the issue allowing smoke to enter your structure. While we will render all possible assistance, the correction of any defects on private property is the responsibility of the property owner.
