Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Sewer and Sewage?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Sewer and Sewage?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The terms "sewer" and "sewage" are related but refer to different aspects of wastewater management. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Sewage: Sewage refers to the waste that is discharged from homes and other buildings. It includes human waste, wastewater, and other liquid waste materials. Sewage is typically transported through underground pipes to a sewage treatment plant or a septic system for processing and treatment.
  • Sewer: A sewer, on the other hand, is the structure that carries the sewage. It is a system of underground pipes that connect homes and buildings to the main sewer, whichthen drains the waste to a treatment plant. Sewerage is also the act of removing water waste by the use of sewers.

In summary:

  • Sewage is the actual waste that flows through the sewer system.
  • Sewer is the structure (pipes and drains) that carries and transports the sewage to a treatment plant or septic system.

It is important not to confuse these two terms, as they refer to distinct components of the wastewater management system.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Sewer and Sewage?
  • Comparative Table: Sewer vs Sewage

    • Comparative Table: Sewer vs Sewage

    Here is a table detailing the differences between sewer and sewage:

    Feature Sewer Sewage
    Definition A sewer is a pipe or system of pipes that conveys wastewater. Sewage is the wastewater itself, which includes water from toilets, sinks, showers, and other sources.
    Purpose The purpose of a sewer is to carry wastewater from homes and businesses to wastewater treatment plants. The purpose of sewage is to be treated and purified before being returned to the environment.
    Types of Sewer Systems There are three types of modern sewer systems: Sanitary sewers (foul sewers), storm sewers (surface water sewers), and combined sewers. There are different ways to treat sewage, such as septic systems and sewer systems.
    Ownership and Maintenance Sewers are typically owned and operated by local governments or cities. Sewage treatment is the responsibility of the property owner in the case of septic systems, while sewer systems are maintained by local governments.
    Environmental Impact Properly maintained sewer systems help protect water quality and the environment. Improperly treated sewage can pose a risk to public health and the environment.
    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.