PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
2004-09-17

 
For further information contact:
Cindie Ashton, Communications Officer, 546-4291, extension 3116 (cell 329-3462)

RESIDENTS ENCOURAGED TO DISCONNECT SUMP PUMPS FROM
THE SANITARY SYSTEM TO AVOID FUTURE FLOODING

While many homeowners continue to clean up after the biggest storm Kingston has seen in over 25 years, Utilities Kingston officials are encouraging residents to save their neighbours and themselves from possible future storm related flooding by taking steps to disconnect sump pumps from the sanitary sewer system.

	RELATED LINK PREVENT BACKUPS Discover the ways you can help prevent sewer backups.

In most areas of City, with the exception of the downtown core, sanitary and stormwater systems are separate systems. Sanitary sewer systems transport household waste from toilets, faucets, laundry tubs and floor drains to the sewage treatment facilities. While stormwater systems are designed to collect rainwater from the streets.

In the 1960's, 70's and even into the 80's, it wasn't uncommon for homeowners to connect the sump pump to their plumbing in the basement, which is connected to the municipal sanitary sewer. . The sump pump would capture rainwater that entered through the foundation of the home and pump it into the sanitary system.

"During a storm like that experienced last week, this excess rain water going to the sump pump would then be pumped into the sanitary systems and can overwhelm the City's sanitary systems," says Utilities Kingston President and CEO, Jim Keech.

While there were no system failures and sanitary systems across the City acted as they were designed to, Utilities Kingston is concerned about the amount of rainwater pumped directly into the west end systems.

Sump pumps should be run to the outside and away from your home towards a storm ditch or the street.

While it may appear relatively simple for the homeowner to perform the disconnection themselves, a licensed plumber will ensure the disconnection is done safely.

"Not only is it important to ensure the pumped water is draining properly away from your home, but once the sump pump is disconnected from the sanitary pipes, the pipes need to be properly sealed to prevent potentially dangerous sewer gases from escaping into your home," recommends Keech.

Sump pumps connected to the sanitary system are prohibited by the "By-law to Control Waste Discharges to Municipal Sewers 2000-263". Utilities Kingston has already planned an extensive education program for next Spring to draw attention to the environmental concerns of sump pumps connected to the sanitary system.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SEWERS

What causes a sewer backup?

A: The most common causes of sewer backup are:

• putting items down your drain that should be put into your garbage (e.g. diapers and grease)
• invasive tree roots
• sewer pipe problems (sewer lateral and/or City sewer)
• excess rainwater entering the sanitary sewer system from a sump pump directly connected to the system

The sewer lateral is the responsibility of the owner of the property from the house to the street. The property owner can do many things to prevent his/her line from backing up. Regular maintenance, camera inspection, disconnecting sump pumps and being careful about the ways you dispose of certain products will help to cause fewer backups.

What is the sewer lateral?

A: A sewer lateral or house lateral is the pipeline between the building and the City sewer main, usually located in the street. The sewer lateral is owned and maintained by the property owner including any part, which may extend into the street or public right of way.

What is the City Sewer?

A: The City sewer runs underneath the road, collecting waste from sewer laterals and transporting it to a sewage treatment facility.

When there is a sewer backup, what should I do?

A: Call Utilities Kingston at 546-0000 for 24-hour service. If applicable, a crew will be dispatched to investigate and clear sewer connections. Rates will be charged to the property owner according to the current City of Kingston Rate Review.

To minimize damage, avoid using your plumbing until the problem has been resolved.

The property owner is responsible for maintaining adequate flow to and through the sewer lateral from the property structure to and into the City sewer.

Should I call my insurance company if I have a sewer backup?

A: Yes. Many insurance policies cover sewage backup cleanup and the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property. Your agent can provide full details. The City urges you to check with your home insurer regarding the availability of sewer backup insurance coverage.

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