Sewer water will soon heat buildings in South Lake Union. It (allegedly) won’t smell

Wastewater will soon be heating five large buildings along South Lake Union’s Dexter Street and Mercer Street, as part of a new pilot program in King County. But don't worry, you won't smell the difference.

King County’s wastewater runs through underground pipes between 65 to 70 degrees. The buildings will tap into the county’s sewage pipes, and filter out solid waste. Then the warm filtered sewage pipes will be lined up next to clean water pipes so it can transfer the heat.

Since the two pipes of water are separated, there is no risk of cross contamination. That’s why the building will not smell, even if a pipe leaks.

You can take a virtual tour here.

There are a total of three slots in this pilot program. Alexandria Real Estate Equities is the first company to pair up with the county. The company says with this new heating technology they expect to reduce their emissions by 99%.

Ericka Kinno with King County said this heating system is essential to cutting down emissions.