A sample that has more hydrogen ions is considered acidic and has a pH of less than 7. For every one unit of change on the pH scale there is a ten-fold change in how acidic or basic the sample is. Thus, a pH of 3 is 10 times more acidic than a pH of 4, and 100 times more acidic than a pH of 5. Sewer Problems Acidic and alkaline solutions discharged to the sanitary sewer causes serious and severe problems within the working confines of the sanitary sewer system. In addition, nuisance odors may be attributed to the release of sulfide gas within the domestic sewage contents.
Acids corrode concrete and cast iron sewers, concrete wet wells and sedimentation tanks.
Alkaline solutions can also corrode sanitary sewers and pumping stations. Aluminum is particularly affected by high pH discharges. Environmental Services Section staff have worked closely with several Water Management Division staff members in a team approach to locating, collecting data, and resolving several illicit discharges to the sanitary system. Should you have questions about sewer or stormwater discharges, or if you wish to report an illegal dumping, please contact the Environmental Services Section at the address and telephone number listed below.