Understanding the Difference Between Water Lines and Sewer Lines in Your Home

Have you ever wondered where exactly the water that flows out of our faucets comes from, or where the waste that flushes down the toilet or garbage disposal goes? Behind the walls and under the floors of your home is a system of pipes that brings in fresh water, as well as a system that disposes wastewater and carries it to city sewer systems.

These two systems are commonly called main water lines (or just water lines) and sewer lines. Understanding what they are and knowing the difference between the two helps homeowners understand their property and be better prepared for any potential plumbing emergencies.

What is a water line?

Water lines deliver fresh water into houses through pipes. These pipes convey or carry clean water that most commonly comes from a municipal source. However, some homes have a private well system that supplies fresh water. 

Homes that receive water from a municipal source have a water meter that records the incoming flow of water for accurate billing at the end of each month. Well systems utilize a pressure tank that is located where the water enters the home. 

Water lines direct clean water to sinks, bathtubs, showers, water heaters, hose faucets, washing machines and toilets. The water that flows through these lines is safe for cooking, cleaning and drinking, making it an extremely important component of your home’s plumbing.

Know Where Your Shutoff Valve Is

If you encounter a serious leak or problem related to your main water line, you can turn off the water main via the shutoff valve. In the case of a situation where you need to completely cut off all water flow into your home, especially to prevent flooding or other serious water damage, it’s important to know where your shutoff valve is.

If you don’t know the location of the main shutoff valve in your home, we recommend taking some time to find it and ensure that it is in good, working condition. Trust us, it shouldn’t take too long! These valves are typically located in the garage, basement or valve box outside of the home. 

If you have any trouble finding your shutoff valve, call a professional plumber. They’ll know exactly where to look, and they can help you track down your shutoff valve in no time.

What is a sewer line?

The plumbing line that removes waste and wastewater out of your home is called a sewer line. Simply put, sewer lines carry waste from a place where it is unwanted to a place where it can be treated or disposed of. 

Think of your sinks, toilets and garbage disposals, even your dishwasher and washing machine; when something you dispose of goes down the drain, it flows out of your home and to either a public sewage treatment plant or a private sewage system, such as a septic tank. 

Sewer lines extend out from the house and continue underground in the yard, sloping downwards so that the waste is always moving away from the home and preventing dangerous backflow issues.

Sewer Line Problems to be Aware Of

It’s important to be cautious before planting trees near your sewer line, as tree roots tend to grow towards the water, potentially causing major damage and threatening the longevity of the lines themselves. 

Sewer lines are also typically 4-6 inches in diameter, which means clogs or buildup can occur quite easily, especially if you dispose of larger objects or waste that isn’t easy to break down. Always be mindful of what you’re flushing! 

If you have a sewer line clog, it will most likely show up in the toilets first because toilets drain directly into the sewer line. Major clogs can cause waste and wastewater to back up into your home, resulting in water damage and exposing your household to potential health risks. 

These types of backups and clogs should be addressed by a professional plumber only! Certified plumbers have the proper tools and training to handle hazardous materials and repair these bigger plumbing breakdowns.

Give Us a Call

Now that you’re all caught up on the difference between water lines and sewer lines, you’re better equipped to handle an emergency if something goes awry. 

Maintaining your lines and knowing where your shutoff valve is located, which trees may threaten your sewer lines as well as being mindful of the types and size of waste going down your toilets and various drains all help to maintain your home and peace of mind! 

As always, if you have any questions or need maintenance on either type of line, contact Lenox Plumbing. We are always here to get your lines running properly and efficiently as soon as possible.