For many Chicago businesses, water plays a vital role in their day-to-day operations—not as an essential input but as a major byproduct of their industrial processes. As a result, these businesses also generate large quantities of wastewater daily, explains Peabody Residential team.
However, the wastewater flowing from these facilities differs from that from homes. It may contain heavy metals, synthetic inorganic products, chemicals, particulate matter, and FOG (fats, oils, and grease).
On the other hand, industrial sewer lines handle wastewater similar to those found in homes. They are also vulnerable to clogs and leakages. In fact, because of the stresses they are subjected to, industrial sewer lines may even be more prone to damage.
Additionally, when problems happen, their impact is more far-reaching. Along with the obvious effect on business operations and profits, there is a higher risk of environmental damage. These facts highlight the need for a business to maintain its industrial sewer systems regularly.
Importance of regular industrial sewer maintenance
What is the correct schedule for maintaining an industrial sewer system? What steps should be taken to keep the sewer line flowing at all times while prolonging its life? What are the practical benefits of regular industrial sewer line maintenance for a business?
Why should you maintain your industrial sewer system?
Regular sewer system maintenance helps to cut costs
Adopting a proactive stance toward sewer line maintenance helps businesses save costs. By detecting problems in their early stages, preventive maintenance works to stop rather than solve problems. It gives the business some control over what happens inside its sewer line, allowing it to avoid major issues and high repair costs.
Enhances operational efficiencies
Problems in an industrial sewer line can upset the entire production process through unsafe working conditions, damage to buildings or equipment, dampening staff morale, exposure to harmful materials and germs, and operational downtime. These problems can be avoided if the sewer line is maintained professionally.
Ensure regulatory compliance
Neglecting an industrial sewer line can cost a business its operational license. Regulators may shut down a business if they adjudge that its sewer lines are hazardous to human life and nature. By keeping the sewer line healthy and flowing, the business protects the environment and enhances its reputation.
Prolong the lifespan of the sewer line
A business that adequately maintains its industrial sewer line is doing itself a service. Well-maintained sewer lines last longer and are less prone to clogs/blockages. This results in overall lower maintenance costs. The organization can also derive more value from its sewer line for much longer.
Hydro jetting an industrial sewer line also helps to clear out debris and leave the surface smooth. It prevents further buildup.Â
How often should an industrial sewer system be cleaned and inspected?
That depends on:
- The type of wastewater: If the wastewater has a lot of organic solids with high viscosity, there is a greater risk of sedimentation inside the pipes. That will, in turn, require the sewer lines to be cleaned more frequently. The location of the facility may also play a role.
- The flow rates: For most industrial sewage systems, flow rates must exceed a specific limit to prevent buildup within the pipes. If wastewater flows through the line at a slower rate, the pipe must be cleaned more frequently.
- The pipe materials: The type of pipe material affects the frequency of sewer line maintenance because different materials have different friction levels. If friction is high, the flow rate will be affected, and the sewer line must be cleaned more often.
How to maintain an industrial sewer line
There are three key components to industrial sewer system maintenance:
- Professional inspections: Given the complex nature of industrial sewer systems and the potential add-on effects of problems in the system, it is always an advantage to stay ahead of any issues in the sewer line. You can do this by conducting a sewer scope video inspection at a specific time in the year. It helps to catch any budding issues before they explode.
- Regular inspections: To remove the buildup that is constantly happening inside the sewer line, it is essential to clean the system periodically. Snaking the line will dislodge any debris or tree roots inside the pipes. Hydro jetting an industrial sewer line also helps to clear out debris and leave the surface smooth. It prevents further buildup.
- Hire a professional commercial plumber: Find an experienced plumber specializing in industrial sewer line maintenance. A competent plumber can offer valuable advice that will save you money. An experienced commercial plumber is a valuable ally for helping your business navigate complex city regulations.
What should be your first step when creating an effective maintenance program for your industrial sewer system? We can help you answer that question.