What is a common consequence of failing to maintain hydraulic capacity in a sewer system?

Maintaining hydraulic capacity in a sewer system is critical to ensuring its efficient and effective operation. When hydraulic capacity is not properly maintained, it can lead to significant consequences, with backups or discharges in the system being one of the most common outcomes.

Backups occur when water flow exceeds the system's capacity to convey it, causing sewage to reverse direction or accumulate within the pipes. This not only leads to potential overflow, which can pose health risks and environmental concerns, but also creates operational challenges and costly repairs. Discharges, particularly in combined sewer systems during heavy rainfall or storm events, can cause untreated sewage to flow into nearby waterways, leading to pollution and violation of environmental regulations.

In summary, maintaining hydraulic capacity is essential for preventing these detrimental outcomes, as it ensures that the sewer system can handle the expected volume of flow and respond appropriately to changes in demand, such as heavy rain or increased usage. Keeping the infrastructure in good condition helps to prevent backups and discharges, which are serious issues that can result from neglecting maintenance.