Sewer systems are crucial parts of modern infrastructure that we often take for granted. These systems help take wastewater away from our homes and communities, keeping them clean and safe. However, many homeowners don’t quite understand how the sewer system works. As professional assistants, we want to help you understand sewer systems better, so you can make more informed decisions when it comes to your home.

What is a sewer system?
A sewer system is a network of underground pipe lines that transport sewage and wastewater from homes and businesses to treatment facilities. It’s very different from a stormwater system or a water supply system, which carry storm water and clean water, respectively.

How does a sewer system work?
When you flush your toilet, pour used water down your sink or shower, or even when your washing machine drains, the wastewater flows into a large pipe that’s connected to the sewer system. These pipes carry wastewater away from your home and connect to larger pipes that move the wastewater to a facility that treats it before it can be released safely back into the environment. Sewer systems rely on gravity to move wastewater downhill, but in cases where the wastewater needs to move uphill, a pump is used to help move the flow of wastewater to the treatment plant.

Why is wastewater treatment important?
Wastewater carries a range of pollutants, including human waste, chemicals, and toxins, which can be dangerous to human health and the environment. When wastewater is treated at a facility, all of these pollutants are removed as much as possible before the treated water is discharged into our rivers, lakes, or oceans. The treatment process aims to turn sewage into clean, safe water that can be reused for irrigation or for industrial purposes, or it can be safely released into the environment without posing any threat to public health or the environment.

What happens when the sewer system fails?
When a sewer system breaks down, it can cause significant problems, including sewage backups, overflows, and expensive repairs. Factors that can contribute to sewer system failure include corrosion, aging infrastructure, and damage from heavy rain or flooding. One way to prevent these problems is to invest in regular sewer line inspections and preventative sewer maintenance. This can help identify potential problems before they become more serious and costly to repair.

Understanding how the sewer system works is essential for homeowners to protect their home and community. We hope that you found our brief explanation of the sewer system helpful. Remember, taking care of your sewer system includes regular maintenance, investing in inspections, and calling professional plumbers and sewers technicians when you suspect a problem. By taking care of your home’s sewer system, you can help keep your community clean and safe.