Why is it important to monitor infiltration in a collection system?

Monitoring infiltration in a collection system is crucial primarily to prevent excessive maintenance costs. Infiltration refers to groundwater entering the sewer system, which can increase the volume of wastewater needing to be treated. When the volume of water in the system rises because of infiltration, it leads to several consequences.

First, increased flow rates can overwhelm the treatment facilities, causing operational inefficiencies and necessitating investments in upgrades or expansions to handle the extra load. This results in higher operational costs and maintenance requirements. If infiltration goes unchecked, it can lead to more frequent blockages, increased wear on pumps and machinery, and ultimately, higher maintenance costs to address these issues.

Additionally, excess infiltration can complicate compliance with discharge permits, leading to potential fines and further financial implications. In essence, continuous monitoring of infiltration allows for timely identification of issue areas, enabling preventive measures that save money and resources over time, thereby maintaining a well-functioning and cost-effective collection system.