Combined Sewers vs Separate Sewers: What’s the Difference?

Among the various types of sewer systems, two common configurations are combined sewers and separate sewers. Understanding the distinction between these systems is vital, as the differentiation can provide information about which sewer repair services are suitable for each.

Combined Sewers

Combined sewers are a type of sewer system where both sanitary sewage and stormwater runoff are conveyed through a single pipe network. In these systems, during dry weather conditions, sewage from households and businesses, along with stormwater, is transported to treatment facilities for processing. However, during heavy rainfall or snowmelt events, the volume of water in the combined sewer system can exceed its capacity, leading to overflow situations and the need for sewer pipe line repair.

These combined sewer overflows (CSOs) can discharge untreated sewage and stormwater directly into nearby water bodies, posing environmental and public health risks. Luckily, Sewer Pro offers sewer repair in Gahanna, OH and can address issues that might come up.

Separate Sewers

In contrast, separate sewers consist of two distinct pipe networks: one for sanitary sewage and another for stormwater runoff. Sanitary sewage, which includes wastewater from toilets, sinks, and drains in homes and businesses, flows through one set of pipes directly to treatment plants. Meanwhile, stormwater runoff, resulting from precipitation events, is conveyed through a separate network of pipes and typically discharged into nearby water bodies without treatment. If there is a need to replace sewer line, it can be done independently of each other.

Separate sewers help minimize the risk of untreated sewage discharge during heavy rainfalls, reducing pollution in waterways and protecting public health. As such, they are less likely to require premature sewer line replacement due to excess pressure.

The efficient functioning of sewer systems is crucial for community well-being. Whether it’s addressing clogged or damaged pipes, conducting routine maintenance, or undertaking extensive projects, skilled professionals are essential to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of the sewer infrastructure. Contact Sewer Pro today.