SA Water is cracking down on incorrect or illegal stormwater connections by carrying out smoke testing across Port Lincoln’s sewerage network.
The utility is also looking to identify cracked or damaged pipes that could be allowing stormwater into the sewer system, which, during heavy rainfall, can place significant pressure on pump stations and increase the risk of overflows into the environment.
Testing involves releasing small amounts of artificially generated smoke into sewer pipes to trace where it escapes – a safe and widely-used technique that pinpoints areas where stormwater may be entering the sewer network.
Crews will monitor smoke emerging from locations such as stormwater downpipes connected to roof guttering, or from damaged inspection point lids along roads or footpaths.
Port Lincoln has been selected for testing after heavy rains in recent years have placed significant pressure on the local sewer network.
“Our observations indicate there may be points in the network where stormwater is entering the system during some rain events, and this testing will help us identify those locations,” SA Water general manager of sustainable infrastructure Peter Seltsikas said.
“While some level of stormwater infiltration in the system is normal, heavy rain events can drive higher flows and place greater strain on pump stations and the sewer network.
“By identifying where stormwater is entering the system, we can target improvements that help reduce the risk of overflows and ensure our sewer network continues protecting public health and the environment.”
SA Water will use testing results to inform sewer main repairs and upgrades, which could involve working with property owners to complete remediation.
“We understand some property owners may not realise they have an illegal stormwater connection, but identifying and fixing these helps keep the sewer network operating as it should,” Seltsikas said.
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