Frequently Asked Questions

What Causes a Sewer Back-up?

Anything, which should not be in a sewer line, has the potential of causing a blockage. For example:

•  Kitchen grease, disposable diapers, and sanitary napkins can accumulate and cause a blockage.

•  Tree roots seeking moisture can grow through cracks in the lines, causing a blockage.

•  Vandals have stopped up lines by putting bricks, wood, oil filters, bed springs, and even Christmas trees in manholes.

Illegal hookups allow excess water into the lines. Outside stairwell drains, sump pumps, roof leaders, and drain gutters should never be connected to the sewer system. A sewer system is designed to carry a predetermined amount of sewage. Rain water not only overloads the system, but also raises the cost of the treatment process.

What Can I Do To Prevent Back-ups?

To protect your property follow these simple Do's and Don'ts.

•  DON'T Put diapers or sanitary napkins in the toilet

•  DON'T Dispose of grease down the drain

•  DON'T Plant trees near sewer lines

•  DON'T Connect any drains or sump pumps to the sewer system

•  DO Install a plumbers test plug (available at hardware stores) at the lowest floor drain in your home

• DO Hire a plumber to install a backflow valve on the lowest drain line. Regularly inspect and maintain the valve

• 0. DO Modify the plumbing line so that water is pumped to an upper level drain, eliminating the drains at the lower level

What is a Mainline Extension?

A mainline extension is when the property owner enters into an agreement with the

District to build the mainline extension and hires a contractor to connect to the closest determined sewer

connection and lay additional sewer pipe to reach the property.

How do roots grow in sewer pipes?

As trees and plants mature, their underground root system grows and naturally seeks out moisture. The most consistent source of moisture is sewer and wastewater pipelines. Joints and cracks in the pipe create natural entry points for roots. Roots start to grow at the top of the pipe and spread.

Is root intrusion a serious problem?

It can be. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, root intrusion is probably the single most destructive element involved in maintaining a wastewater collection system. Left untreated, roots will spread throughout the pipe. Material passing down the drain gets trapped in the roots, restricting the flow or even causing a complete blockage. Root intrusion can eventually destroy a sewer or septic system, costing homeowners thousands of dollars to repair or replace.

What if I cannot afford to replace my sewer line?

Most cities provide low interest loans and finance sewer connection costs and also give some property owners the option of delaying connection in case of financial hardship.

What is ABS?

ABS pipe and fittings are made from a thermoplastic resin called Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS for short). ABS PIPING SYSTEMS: Are easier and less expensive to install than metal piping; Feature superior flow due to smooth interior finish; Do not rot, rust, corrode or collect waste; Withstand earth loads and shipping (with proper handling); Resist mechanical damage, even at low temperatures; Perform at an operational temperature range of -40°F to 180°

Will ABS pipe rust or corrode?

ABS pipe does not rot, rust, corrode or collect waste. Its smooth interior finish ensures superior flow