As a homeowner, it’s important to know how different utilities function inside and outside of your home. That way, when something goes wrong, you can make informed decisions on how to remedy the situation.
When it comes to understanding utilities, homeowners may lack knowledge about the connection between sewage and water services. They may believe that water and sewage lines are the same. Knowing the difference between a sewer line and a water line is essential.
What Is a Sewer Line?
As the name suggests, sewage lines transport sewage out of the home. Sewage refers to any wastewater you may find in a home, including toilet waste and old wash water from dishwashers, washing machines, and sinks.
When wastewater enters your sewage system, the system it removes it from the home and sends it to your local water treatment facility. The facility cleans the water and returns it to local waterways.
What Is a Water Line?
Water lines only deal with clean or drinkable water. These lines bring water into the home for use in sinks, washing devices, and sprinkler systems. This water often comes from groundwater sources such as wells, or surface water sources, such as reservoirs and lakes.
Naturally, water lines don’t only go into homes. Water lines can travel under streets, connecting to other outlets such as fire hydrants, community sprinkler systems, and park fountains.
Why You Should Know the Difference
When you think of sewage and water lines, you can view them as two lanes of traffic. Sewage is outbound, taking dirty water away from homes and commercial properties. Water lines are the inbound lane, bringing clean water into homes and businesses.
Problems can occur when the two lines need to run close to each other underground. Typically, cities will require a 10-foot distance between them when the lines run parallel. However, if they’re too close together and there’s a sewage backup, it can lead to water contamination for nearby residences and businesses.
That’s why knowing the difference between sewer and water lines and having an experienced sewer and water contractor is essential. Harris Water Main and Sewer Contractors has decades of experience helping repair sewage and water issues in many communities.
