- Infiltration: Water other than sanitary wastewater entering the system from the ground through cracked pipes, connections or maintenance holes.
- Inflow: Stormwater entering the system through eaves, foundation drains, maintenance hole covers, cross connections between storm sewers and sanitary sewers and storm drains.
Regina has two sewer systems:
- Domestic Sewer System: Designed to carry sewage to the Wastewater Treatment Plan to be treated before returning it to the environment.
- Storm Sewer System: Prevents streets from flooding by draining and carrying excess stormwater (water from rainfall and snowmelt) to Wascana Creek untreated.
Problems with Inflow & Infiltration
There are several problems caused by inflow and infiltration, including:
- Basement flooding caused by too much water in the domestic system.
- Reduced wastewater system capacity for residents.
- Makes sewage treatment less efficient since the sewage is diluted by water.
During heavy rainfall events, a combination of stormwater and wastewater may be released into the environment as a last resort to protect public assets and prevent basement flooding.
How Homeowners can Reduce the Impact
- Redirect downspouts into a rain barrel or a rain garden
- Be aware of aging pipes and of nearby trees that can cause root damage to underground pipes.
- Ensure your weeping tiles and / or sump pumps are not connected to the sanitary system.
