What Is A Combined Drainage System In Cumbria?

Cumbria is a county in North West England, known for its beautiful National Parks, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities. The county is also home to a range of urban and rural areas that are served by a complex network of drainage systems, including combined drainage systems.

At Drainage Cumbria, we are a leading drainage company, providing a range of drainage services to customers across Cumbria. In this landing page, we will explore what a combined drainage system is, how it works, and why it is essential for the efficient management of water in the region.

What Is A Combined Drainage System?

A combined drainage system is a specific kind of drainage system that carries both rainwater and wastewater from properties and paved areas to a wastewater treatment plant. This type of drainage system is often used in urban areas where space is limited, and it is not possible to have separate drainage systems for different types of water.

In a combined drainage system, the rainwater that falls on roofs, roads, and pavements is collected along with wastewater from sinks, toilets, and showers. The water is then carried through a network of underground pipes, called sewers, to a wastewater treatment plant, where it is treated before being discharged into a river or the sea.

How Does A Combined Drainage System Work?

A combined drainage system works by using a network of underground pipes, called sewers, to collect rainwater and wastewater from properties and paved areas. The sewers are typically made of concrete, PVC or clay pipes, and are designed to carry large volumes of water.

The sewers are connected to a range of different pipes, including sanitary pipes, which carry the wastewater from toilets, sinks, and showers, and stormwater pipes, which carry the rainwater from roofs, roads, and pavements.

Once the water has entered the sewer system, it flows downhill towards the treatment plant, with gravity providing the force needed to move the water along. Along the way, the water may encounter a range of different components, including manholes, valves, and pumps, which help to regulate the flow of water and ensure that it reaches the treatment plant.

Why Use A Combined Drainage System?

There are several reasons why a combined drainage system is a popular choice in urban areas. Firstly, it allows for the efficient management of water in areas where space is limited, as there is not enough room to have separate drainage systems for different types of water.

This type of drainage system also reduces the risk of flooding in urban areas, as it can easily cope with large volumes of rainwater and wastewater. It also saves money, as there is no need for separate drainage systems, which can be expensive to install and maintain.

Another advantage of a combined drainage system is that it helps to protect the environment by ensuring that wastewater is treated before it is discharged into rivers or the sea. This means that pollutants and contaminants are removed from the water, reducing the risk of water pollution and harm to marine life.

How Are Combined Drainage Systems in Cumbria Constructed?

Combined drainage systems in Cumbria are constructed using a range of different techniques, depending on the location, the type of soil, and the specific needs of the area.

The construction of a combined drainage system typically begins with a survey of the area, including an assessment of the soil type, the water table, and any existing drainage or sewer systems. This information is then used to design a drainage system that is suitable for the local conditions and meets the needs of the community.

The construction process typically involves digging trenches to install the pipes and connecting the pipes to the various components, such as manholes, valves, and pumps. Once the system is in place, it is tested to ensure that it can handle the expected volumes of water and that it is working efficiently.

What Are The Different Kinds of Combined Drainage Systems?

There are several types of combined drainage systems that are used in Cumbria, depending on the location and the specific needs of the area. Some of the most common types of combined drainage systems include:

Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Systems

A Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) system is designed to handle large volumes of rainwater and wastewater by allowing excess water to overflow into a storage chamber or a waterway. This type of system is used in areas where the volume of water flowing through the sewer system can exceed its capacity, such as during heavy rainfall.

Stormwater Storage Systems

A stormwater storage system is designed to capture and store rainwater for later use, such as for irrigation or for non-potable uses. The system typically consists of a series of tanks or underground chambers that are connected to the sewer system and can hold large volumes of water.

Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) Systems

A Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) system is designed to prevent the overflow of wastewater in the sewer system by diverting the excess water to a storage chamber or a waterway. This type of system is used in areas where the volume of wastewater produced by the community can exceed the capacity of the sewer system.

How Can Drainage Cumbria Help?

At Drainage Cumbria, we are committed to providing high-quality drainage services to customers across Cumbria. We offer a range of drainage services, including drain cleaning, CCTV surveys, and drain repairs.

We have a team of experienced and qualified drainage engineers who can provide a range of services, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs. Our engineers have access to the latest tools and equipment, which allows them to quickly identify and repair any issues with your drainage system.

We are also available 24/7, so you can call us at any time if you have a drainage emergency. Our team will respond quickly and efficiently to ensure that your property is protected from any damage caused by a drainage issue.

If you would like to find out more about our drainage services or would like to discuss a specific issue with your drainage system, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk for more information.