Sewer and Water

The Hempfield Township Municipal Authority uses smoke and dye testing, television camera work, and manhole inspections to pinpoint defects in sewer lines and house laterals that may cause excess infiltration and inflow (I&I) to enter the sewer system. In the sewage business, I&I (infiltration and inflow) is defined as unwanted storm water entering the sewer system through cracks in sewer lines (infiltration) or directly through manhole lids, downspouts, driveway drains, or other such conduits (inflow). I&I creates problems by overburdening both the collection system (sewer lines) and treatment facilities during times of heavy rainfall. The elimination of major sources of I&I can alleviate sewer line overflows and hydraulic overloading of the treatment plants.

Andrew's Run Sewer Project Update

The installation of the sewer lines for the Andrew’s Run Project has been completed and it is anticipated that tap notices will be mailed in the Spring of 2010. Approximately 400 homes were sewered under the Andrew’s Run Project.

Root Invasions

Once roots get into your lateral (the connection from your home to our main sewer line) they trap grease, tissue paper, and other debris resulting in blockages in your lateral line that can become very costly repairs.

Roots thrive in the warm, moist, nutrient-rich atmosphere above the water level inside sanitary sewers. Tree roots are attracted to the water vapor leaving the pipe and they follow the vapor trail to the source of the moisture, which is usually from cracks or loose joints in the sewer pipe. Tree roots will penetrate the opening to reach the nutrients and moisture inside the pipe. The first signs of a slow flowing drainage system are gurgling noises from toilet bowls or slow draining bath tubs. A complete blockage may occur if no remedial action is taken to remove the roots.

As roots continue to grow, they exert considerable pressure at the crack or joint where they entered the pipe. The force exerted by the root growth can break the pipe and may result in total collapse of the pipe. Severe root intrusion and structurally damaged pipes will require replacement. Tree roots growing inside sewer pipes are generally the most expensive sewer maintenance item experienced by Township residents. Roots from trees growing on private property throughout the Township sewer areas are responsible for many sanitary sewer backups and damaged sewer pipes. Homeowners should be aware of the location of their lateral line and refrain from planting trees, bushes, and hedges near that area.

If your home was built before 1980, you may have clay or iron pipes. These pipes are more likely to have cracks or joint problems, therefore resulting in root problems.

Other than removing the trees or replacing the building sewers with PVC pipe, there isn’t any permanent solution. If the blockage is bad, the roots have to be cut and flushed away. A foam-type aquatic herbicide can be added a couple weeks later. The foaming herbicide fills the pipe, killing the roots on the top of the pipe as well as the sides. Annual use usually will keep them from returning. Please do not use any copper sulfate type root-killer. The copper will end up at our plant and may adversely affect the sludge treatment process.

Should you decide to replace your damaged lateral please pick up a copy of the lateral detail specifications at the Authority’s office and remember to contact the Authority to schedule the required free inspection.

Illegal Connections

As mentioned above, such things as downspouts and driveway drains tied into the sewer system cause problems. These are considered illegal connections and must be removed. Through smoke and dye testing, these connections can be identified. If found on your property, a Notice of Violation will be sent requiring that the identified problem be corrected. It is anticipated that each and every customer will take any proactive measures necessary to correct any individual problem they may have before being discovered the the Authority. By removing excessive I&I, all Authority customers will help control Authority costs. Sewer cleanouts with broken caps also act as area drains and allow storm water into the system. Please help by making these corrections to your system as soon as possible to avoid receiving a notice of violation.

Drop Box Available for Sewage Payment 24/7

The Hempfield Township Municipal Authority is equipped with a drop box for sewage payments by check 24/7. It is located beside the drive-thru payment window.

Drive-Thru Window Available for Payment During Office Hours

The drive thru payment window is available during normal business hours. With the drop box and drive thru window conveniences, there is no need to get out of your car or waste a stamp.

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