Rainwater & Groundwater
Infiltration and inflow (I&I) are terms used to describe the ways that clear water (rainwater and groundwater) enter the sanitary sewer system. Excess water from I&I can overwhelm the sewer system, leading to overflows and increased treatment costs. Through proactive measures, regular inspections, and help from our community, we can combat I&I.
Inflow
Rainwater can inflow into the sewer system directly through improper connections such as foundation drains, roof drains, storm drains, and defective manhole covers.
Infiltration
Groundwater can infiltrate into sewer pipe locations that become vulnerable with time such as leaky joints, cracked pipes, and deteriorated manholes.
Why prevent rainwater and groundwater from entering the wastewater system?
Excess water can overwhelm the sewer system and lead to sewer backups into homes, which are unpleasant, stressful, and pose potential health risks and property damage.
System overflows can release untreated sewage into the environment, contaminating waterways and present health hazards.
Treating the additional rainwater and groundwater increases operational costs at wastewater treatment plants and increases the need for larger and more expensive sewer pipes and treatment facilities.
WEP Strategies
Sewer Maintenance Crews perform routine checks and upkeep of sewer pipes to identify and fix issues before they become major problems.
No-dig technology with cured-in-place pipe linings rehabilitate and restore damaged and aging sewer pipes to like-new condition without the expense and time of traditional construction methods.
Defective manhole covers are repaired and replaced to decrease inflow and infiltration into the sewer system.
Prevent I&I at Home!
Property sewer lines are the owner’s responsibility. It’s important to inspect and repair any damaged sewer service lines to prevent backups.
The mushroom cap or access cover prevents rainwater and other debris from entering the sewer system. If your cleanout is missing or damaged, replace it.
Defective manhole covers are repaired and replaced to decrease inflow and infiltration into the sewer system.