SAIPAN — The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation will conduct smoke and dye testing in San Antonio (Beach Road area) on Thursday, January 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., as crews work to identify leaks, breaks, and other connections in CUC’s sewer system. Some roadways will be closed during the testing period so wastewater operators can access manholes. Motorists are advised to slow down, use caution, or take alternative routes.
The advisory outlines two inspection methods:
Dye testing: CUC will introduce nontoxic dye into toilets and cleanouts of participating customers and monitor sewer lines for signs of dye. If dye appears in CUC’s sewer lines within the customer’s area, the customer will be informed of the connection and the information will be sent to the billing department for proper billing. Customers should expect a visit from wastewater operators to request access before dye testing begins.
Smoke testing: CUC will force nontoxic smoke into sewer access points. The smoke travels through connected pipes and can indicate pipe leaks, cracks, uncapped lines, breached utility holes, and other defects, while helping locate unknown pipe sections such as cleanouts and downspouts. CUC said the smoke is manufactured for this purpose, leaves no residue or stains, and has no effects on plants or animals. The smoke is not expected to enter homes, but if it does, it will have a distinct odor and should clear within a few minutes with proper ventilation. CUC also advised residents to ensure plumbing fixture drain traps are filled with water before testing.
