Irvine Ranch Water District Customers Urged to Check Their Sewer Laterals

Aug. 9, 2012 - PRLog -- Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Most homeowners don’t tend to think about sewers until there is a backup in their plumbing. Anyone who has ever had a sewer backup would agree it is an unpleasant problem that can be costly if ignored.

“If customers find that all of their drains are moving slowly, that’s an early indication they have the beginning of a blockage,” said Greg Springman, IRWD Collection System Manager.

Often, the question arises – where does the responsibility of the customer begin and end and when does it become the responsibility of IRWD? The upper sewer lateral – the line leading from the residence to the edge of the property line – and the lower lateral, which connects into the sewer mainline, is the responsibility of the customer to maintain. In addition, customers are responsible for making any repairs to the upper lateral only. If repairs are needed on the lower lateral, that is the responsibility of IRWD.

A typical sanitary sewer system is constructed of a network of pipes connecting to each building and transporting wastewater to IRWD’s two wastewater recycling plants. Sewer clogs can lead to sewer spills. There are many ways to prevent such spills:

Never put fats, grease or oils down drains, garbage disposals, or toilets. Instead, place oils into a jar or can and throw it into the garbage can for collection.
Do not put disposable rags or wipes down drains or toilets. Even if the product claims to be “flushable,” it is not and causes clogs and damage to sewer pumps.
Do not plant trees or shrubs near sewer laterals because root intrusion can cause serious blockages and damage to the lines.
Perform periodic cleaning and inspections to your sewer laterals to ensure the lines are running free and there are no clogs or root intrusions.
“Our crews are a good source of unbiased information and we are always available to help our customers decide on a course of action,” Springman said. “All they need to do is contact us if they have questions.”

Information about IRWD sewer systems is available on our website.