Understanding Inflow and Infiltration - The York Water Company

Introduction

Inflow and infiltration are critical components in wastewater management. Understanding how both inflow and infiltration can impact a wastewater system can help you, our York Water customer, be part of the solution to both protect the environment and reduce costs.

At York Water, we have a rigorous inflow and infiltration program to protect the environment, operate our facilities efficiently and ultimately reduce costs to our customers.

Learn more below.

What is Inflow?

Inflow refers to the water that enters the sewer system from sources such as stormwater, surface runoff, and/or unauthorized direct connections like downspouts and sump pumps. This water can significantly increase the volume of wastewater that needs to be treated in our facilities. The result of this increased volume of water includes an increase in treatment product and energy to move the water through a system – both are common examples of how unmanaged inflow can increase costs to a wastewater customer.

What is Infiltration?

Infiltration occurs when groundwater enters the sewer system through cracks, leaks, or faulty connections. If left unchecked, this groundwater can overwhelm treatment facilities and lead to higher costs. York Water routinely inspects manholes and sewer mains and makes necessary repairs promptly. In addition, investment in our infrastructure keeps any urgent repairs to a minimum.

Common Sources

Cracked or broken sewer pipes – This can be caused by damage, faulty installation, or just old age.
Faulty sewer connections.
Poorly sealed manholes. York Water routinely inspects manhole covers and installs manhole lid inserts that restrict stormwater and surface runoff from entering the system.
Aging infrastructure. Today a poured concrete structure is used to secure manholes, but over the years red brick or terra cotta pipes were commonly used. These materials are highly susceptible to either being disturbed and damaged or being crushed under the weight of the earth above it resulting in infiltration to the sewer system.

Environmental Impacts

Increased risk of untreated sewage spills
Potential contamination of local water bodies causing health hazards
Potential back-ups into basements and homes

Economic Impacts

Higher treatment costs- this means higher sewer bills
Increased maintenance and repair expenses

Damage to equipment

Prevention and Solutions

Preventing inflow and infiltration within our wastewater systems requires the York Water team to act and with the support of our customers we will be able to make an even bigger impact.

York Water will:

Continue with routine inspection and maintenance of sewer lines within our wastewater territories.
Promptly seal and repair cracks and leaks.
Continue to upgrade aging infrastructure.
When possible, use trenchless technology for any needed repairs.

Customers can help by:

Checking downspouts, floor drains, and sump pump connections to ensure they are not connecting to the sewer system.
Contacting York Water immediately if leaks are noticed.
Not flushing wipes, diapers, and sanitary products, which can cause blockages.
Having your sewer line inspected regularly by a licensed professional to identify and repair any potential issues before they become a major problem.
Checking for uncapped cleanouts on sewer laterals.
Using water-saving fixtures in your home to reduce the amount of water being sent into the sewer system.
Not planting trees near sewer laterals. Roots can cause damage to underground pipes.
Sharing with your family and friends the importance of being mindful of what is safe for our sewer systems and how conserving water can help everyone.

For more information or assistance, please contact our Customer Service team at (717) 845-3601 or customer.service@yorkwater.com