Beaverton, like many cities in the Portland metro area, operates a combined sewer system (CSS) that collects both stormwater runoff and sewage in the same set of pipes. While this infrastructure is common in older urban areas, it poses unique challenges—especially during heavy rain events. Understanding how the combined sewer system works, what risks it presents, and how you as a homeowner can help protect your property is essential.
In this post, Einstein Pros Beaverton breaks down the key facts about the combined sewer system, its environmental impact, and practical tips to safeguard your home.
What Is a Combined Sewer System?
A combined sewer system collects both sewage (from toilets, sinks, and appliances) and stormwater runoff from rain or melting snow into a single pipe system. These pipes transport the water to a wastewater treatment plant.
While this design was economical when originally built, it has some drawbacks:
- During dry weather, all sewage goes to treatment.
- During heavy rain or rapid snowmelt, the volume can overwhelm the system.
This overload may lead to Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs), where untreated or partially treated sewage and stormwater discharge directly into local waterways to prevent backups into streets or homes.
Beaverton and the Combined Sewer System
Beaverton’s CSS connects with the larger Portland metro area system managed by the Portland Bureau of Environmental Services (BES). According to BES, Portland is actively working to reduce CSOs through green infrastructure projects like rain gardens, permeable pavements, and improved detention facilities.
However, during intense storms, Beaverton homeowners may still experience:
- Increased risk of sewer backups into basements.
- Local flooding in low-lying areas.
- Temporary water quality impacts in streams and rivers.
Why Should Beaverton Homeowners Care?
- Protect Your Property from Sewer Backups
When combined sewer systems overflow or become clogged, sewage can back up into basements or drains. This is a health hazard and can cause costly damage. - Help Protect Local Waterways
Untreated sewage discharging into rivers and streams can harm aquatic ecosystems and public health. - Stay Informed About Local Infrastructure Improvements
Understanding the CSS can help homeowners advocate for community projects that reduce overflow risks.
What Can Homeowners Do?
1. Install Backwater Valves
Backwater valves prevent sewage from flowing back into your home during system overloads. Einstein Pros Beaverton recommends scheduling an inspection to determine if your home needs this protective device.
Learn more about sewer backup prevention
2. Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Your Property
Simple landscaping changes like rain gardens, permeable pavers, and rain barrels help absorb stormwater onsite, reducing the load on the CSS.
Check out our guide to managing stormwater at home
3. Properly Dispose of Grease and Waste
Avoid pouring grease, oils, or non-flushable items down the drain. These can clog pipes and contribute to backups.
See our tips for preventing clogged drains
4. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Routine maintenance by a trusted plumber ensures your home’s plumbing system is in good shape to handle heavy rain events.
Schedule a Beaverton plumbing inspection with Einstein Pros
What is Being Done at the City Level?
The Portland Bureau of Environmental Services invests millions in green infrastructure and sewer separation projects to mitigate combined sewer overflows. These initiatives include:
- Installing stormwater detention facilities.
- Enhancing pipe capacity in vulnerable areas.
- Promoting rainwater capture incentives for homeowners.
Learn more on the Portland Bureau of Environmental Services website.
Final Thoughts
Beaverton’s combined sewer system is an integral part of how wastewater and stormwater are managed in our community. However, it also brings risks that homeowners should understand and prepare for.
Einstein Pros Beaverton is here to help you protect your home with expert plumbing services and advice tailored to our region’s unique infrastructure challenges. Whether it’s installing backwater valves, maintaining your plumbing, or helping you manage stormwater runoff, we have you covered.
For personalized assistance or to schedule a consultation, contact Einstein Pros Beaverton today.
References
- Portland Bureau of Environmental Services. Combined Sewer Overflow Program
- Environmental Protection Agency. Combined Sewer Overflows