When you have a drainage problem it’s not always obvious what’s causing it as drain lines are hidden underground.
Here at TWC Draincare we understand how stressful drain emergencies can be, and the last thing we want to do is make the situation worse by baffling you with jargon. To help, here are the meanings of many commonly used drainage terms, so you can better understand what lurks beneath.
What’s the difference between Greywater and Blackwater?
Greywater is wastewater from any plumbing system that is not contaminated by human waste, such as the drainage from baths, sinks, and washing machines. The water that is used to flush your toilet (which is then contaminated with human waste) is known as blackwater. When we talk about reusing water for sustainability, such as to water your plants, we are referring to greywater.
What’s a Manhole?
This is typically a brick-built chamber which provides an access point for an engineer to larger drain or other utility lines. Manholes come in many shapes and sizes are identified by heavy metal lids which are secure. They allow engineers to undertake maintenance work such as inspection, cleaning and repairs. They are typically situated at key points along a drainage line, such as where pipes connect. They are called ‘manholes’ as they are large enough for someone to enter the chamber if necessary.
What’s an Inspection Chamber?
This is like a manhole chamber, but typically not as large or as deep. It is designed to give access to smaller pipes within a system that are nearer the surface. They provide enough space for key maintenance work to be undertaken.
What’s a CCTV Drain Survey?
By the time underground pipe damage becomes visible on the surface, fixing the issue can be both difficult and expensive. A CCTV drain survey can avoid this with a qualified draincare engineer pushing a waterproof camera on flexible rods through your drains, allowing them to inspect every inch of the pipes.
Catching a problem like root ingress or cracking pipes in the early stages can allow your engineer to use an easier (and cheaper!) fix solution.
What’s a Compliance Survey?
If you use an off-mains drainage system, like a septic tank, you must meet government requirements (called “general binding rules”) to prevent environmental damage. A compliance survey is an inspection conducted by a draincare professional, like our TWC Draincare engineers, that ensures that your system abides by all the applicable rules.
What’s Root Ingress?
Root ingress is the process of tree roots forcing their way into underground pipes in search of the water they contain. This natural (but destructive) behaviour can lead to blockages, pipe ruptures, and even flooding.
To avoid it, always make sure you plant new trees far away from your drains, and make sure you schedule regular CCTV drain surveys to check for underground damage.
What’s a Septic Tank?
A septic tank is a sewage solution for properties that are not connected to the mains sewer system. It involves filtering waste into a large underground tank, which separates it out and breaks down the waste using natural biological processes. Wastewater is then safely discharged into the drainage field, and the solid waste needs to be emptied periodically to ensure the tank is functioning properly.
What’s a Sewage Treatment Plant?
These are like septic tanks but they use specialist equipment to help breakdown waste before it is discharged.
What’s a Soil Vent Pipe?
A soil vent pipe, or SVP, is a crucial part of your drainage system. It is a vertical pipe that regulates the pressure in the system and removes harmful sewer gasses from the property.
Now we’ve clarified the jargon, why not talk to the TWC Draincare team about your drainage needs by calling us at 0333 305 2243, or fill out our online enquiry form for a free quote.
