The downspout from my eavestrough is connected to the sewer pipe. Should it be disconnected?
The central older parts of Edmonton built before 1960 are serviced by a combined sewer system. This system carries both sewage from the home and stormwater runoff from streets and rooftops in one pipe. Residents with this type of servicing should disconnect their downspouts and direct them onto the surface. This will reduce the amount of water that enters the combined sewer system and will reduce the risk of sewer backup. Almost all areas of Edmonton built between 1960 and 1980 are serviced by both a sanitary and storm sewer. The sanitary sewer system carries sewage from the home and drainage from weeping tiles located around the foundation of the house. The storm sewer system carries stormwater from the streets and household downspouts. Residents in areas with sanitary and storm sewers should be aware that disconnecting the downspout from the storm sewer system may not reduce the risk of basement flooding. Instead, doing this may increase the risk of surface flooding if the lot is not
