I turn to Texags, which knows everything. Our family has been in negotiations with a municipality that wants to acquire a sewer line easement across the front of our rural land. We thought we were in the last stage of discussions but the last plot just submitted now shows an above ground air release valve on the force main line. Our questions are: how large is the above ground portion, and most importantly, will odors be released and how often? We will be receiving 'their' explanation, but I want Texags information. Thanks!

How large depends on the forcemain size. And yes, they do have odors frequently, but nothing crazy if you aren't within 30 yards and the wind blowing your direction.

Howdy Dammit said:

---

How large depends on the forcemain size. And yes, they do have odors frequently, but nothing crazy if you aren't within 30 yards and the wind blowing your direction.

---

The forcemain will be 12 inches in diameter. Our concern for odor is that the location is close to the most logical / desirable spot for building a home.

That isnt a big forcemain at all. Valve will be small with a 1" vent pipe.

The only time sewage gas will be exposed to atmosphere is when the main has to evacuate air, which shouldnt be often. Once it releases air or suck it in, the valve ball seats and it is closed.

Thank you for the information.

If the elevation allows it. ARVs need to be installed at the crest of the force main, which usually sits at the crest of a hill (hence near the best spot for building a house on the property with hilltop views). They may push back against that request. Depending on the size of the hill, you could potentially negotiate doing a larger easement so that they can bury the line a bit deeper and negate the need for the ARV in the first place.

Essentially oils for the shtter