Dear SOUFIANE ELMOBARIKI  ...

 Dear SOUFIANE ELMOBARIKI 

Water flow into the collection system is comprised of

1.  Sanitary wastewater from residential and commercial sources,
2.  Groundwater infiltration, and
3. Rainfall derived inflow from surface sources. Sewer systems will experience some level of infiltration and inflow (I/I) as a result of age, installation quality, and proximity to I/I sources such as creeks, rivers, lakes, and storm water channels. Small quantities of I/I are acceptable and incorporated into the design of collection and treatment systems.

However, large quantities of I/I put undue strain on the collection and treatment systems, which, in turn, affect the District’s operation and capital budgets and directly impact services rates. Although I/I is typically low in solids, I/I causes dilution of the wastewater resulting in decreased solids removal efficiencies and increased pumping power costs. Maintaining wastewater collection infrastructure – pump stations, force mains, and sewers – is an integral component of the proper management of a treatment system and critical to preventing illegal wastewater releases. Inflow and infiltration (I&I) happen when water from the environment that does not need to be treated enters the sewage system. Infiltration refers to groundwater entering the system. Inflow refers to rainwater (stormwater) entering the system. wastewater collection system conveys an average daily flow of 100,000 gallons per day to the Town's Wastewater Treatment Facility.  During major rain events this flow can increase to 500,000 gallons per day. Excess water that flows into sewer pipes from groundwater and stormwater is called infiltration and inflow or I/I. Groundwater infiltration seeps into sewer pipes through holes, cracks, joint failures, and faulty connections. Stormwater inflow rapidly flows into sewers via roof drain downspouts, foundation drains, storm drain cross-connections, and through holes in manhole covers. Most I/I is caused by aging infrastructure that needs maintenance or replacement.

• Know where your sewer lateral is on your property
• Avoid planting trees and shrubs over sewer laterals as roots seek water and can damage sewer pipes
• Check your gutters and drains to ensure they are not connected to the sanitary sewer system.
• Disconnect roof downspouts from the sanitary sewer system. Even better, install a rain barrel under your roof leader, if conditions permit
• Disconnect foundation drains and groundwater sump pumps from the sanitary sewer system
• Have your property's sewer lateral inspected. Replace any known broken, leaky or problem sections of your property's sewer lateral. Maintaining and repairing the lateral is the homeowner's responsibility and can reduce I&I and prevent sewer backups into your home.