When it comes to plumbing systems, drains and sewers are two crucial components that play a significant role in maintaining the hygiene and functionality of our homes and cities. Both are responsible for wastewater transportation, but they serve different purposes and are designed differently to handle various types of waste.

These are the key differences between drains and sewers, and the services commonly associated with them.

Drains: Handling Your Household Wastewater

A drain is a vital part of every household plumbing system. It’s a pipe or conduit that carries wastewater and liquid waste away from various fixtures inside a building. These fixtures can include sinks, bathtubs, showers, toilets, and washing machines.

When you wash your hands, shower, or rinse dishes, the used water and waste flow through the drain system, where it’s directed to a sewer or other disposal points.

Common Drain Issues & Services

• Drain cleaning: Over time, drains can accumulate debris, soap scum, hair, and other materials that lead to clogs. Professional drain cleaning services can effectively clear these blockages and improve drainage.
• Drain repair: If a drainpipe develops leaks, cracks, or damage, it can cause water damage or attract pests. Drain repairs address these issues to ensure the proper function of the drain system.
• Drain backup: A drain backup can result from clogs or blockages in the drainage system. This can lead to wastewater backing up into sinks, showers, or bathtubs. Professional plumbers can identify the cause of the backup and provide appropriate solutions.
• Drain clogs: A clogged drain can disrupt your daily routine and cause inconvenience. Skilled plumbers can quickly unclog drains and restore proper drainage.
• Drain inspection: Regular drain inspections can help identify potential issues early and prevent major problems in the future. Plumbers use advanced tools, such as video cameras, to inspect the inside of the drainpipes thoroughly.

Sewers: Managing Citywide Wastewater

Unlike drains, sewers are much larger pipes or underground channels that collect and transport a large volume of wastewater and sewage from multiple drains and buildings in a city or community. The primary function of sewers is to carry this collected wastewater to treatment facilities or other appropriate disposal points.

Common Sewer Issues & Services

• Sewer replacement: Over time, sewer lines can deteriorate due to age, tree root intrusion, ground movements, or other factors. Sewer replacement is a major undertaking, but modern trenchless sewer repair methods can minimize disruption.
• Sewer repair: When sewer lines develop leaks, cracks, or damage, it can lead to sewage leaks, unpleasant odors, and environmental issues. Professional sewer repair can address these problems efficiently.
• Trenchless sewer repair: Trenchless methods, such as pipe lining and pipe bursting, offer a less invasive approach to repairing sewer lines, reducing the need for extensive digging and excavation.
• Sewer backup repair: Sewer backups can be hazardous, as they may cause raw sewage to overflow into streets or properties. Expert plumbers can diagnose the cause of the backup and recommend appropriate repairs.
• Sewer cleaning & hydro jetting: Regular sewer cleaning and hydro jetting can remove blockages, sediment buildup, and debris, ensuring smooth wastewater flow through the sewer system.

Trust Whipple Service Champions With Your Drain & Sewer Needs

Drains and sewers are integral components of plumbing systems, each serving a specific purpose in managing wastewater. Drains handle the wastewater generated within a building and transport it to the sewer system. In contrast, sewers manage collecting and transporting large volumes of wastewater from multiple sources to treatment facilities.

Proper maintenance, timely inspections, and professional services from experienced plumbers are essential to keep drains and sewers in optimal condition and prevent any major issues in your home. At Whipple Service Champions, our team has years of experience servicing drains and sewer systems throughout Salt Lake City, Ogden, and the surrounding area.

If you have drain or sewer issues in your Utah home, contact our team online to schedule drain and sewer services today.