Overhead sewer conversion
Top Local Experts for Overhead Sewer Conversions in Wheeling, IL and Surrounding Areas
Raises the sewer above the city main so it cannot back up
Raising the sewer above the city main, so it cannot back up into the home
Most Wheeling homes drain by gravity: the basement fixtures and floor drain sit below the level of the city sewer, and when heavy rain overwhelms the main, sewage has an easy path back into the lowest point of the house.
An overhead sewer conversion reroutes that. The basement plumbing drains into an ejector pit with an ejector pump that lifts waste up and out through a line above the sewer's level, and the fixtures upstairs still drain by gravity, now into that overhead line. A backed-up main then has nowhere to go but the street.
What overhead sewer conversion includes
The conversion is plumbing, electrical and concrete work, done as one job.
- An assessment of the existing drainage, the basement and the feasibility of conversion
- A new ejector pit and pump installed in the basement floor
- Rerouted drain lines from basement fixtures to the pit, and a discharge line above the sewer level
- Help applying for the city rebate programs that offset the cost
What the appointment looks like
The assessment
The technician reviews your current plumbing, listens to your flooding history and confirms whether a conversion is right for the house.
The quote and the rebate
The cost comes in writing, along with what your municipality's rebate program may return on it.
The conversion
The ejector pit is installed and the whole sewer is run overhead inside the house, rather than under the basement floor. The old sewer is abandoned, and we excavate outside to connect to the existing sewer.
Tested and explained
The system is run and checked, and we show you how it works and what to maintain from here on: the pump and an annual sewer rodding.
Three situations cover most calls
The scope is set by how much of the basement drains below the sewer.
A floor drain and a laundry
The simplest conversion: one or two basement drains rerouted to a new ejector pit.
A finished basement
A bathroom, kitchenette or bar below grade, all rerouted to the new overhead sewer per code.
Conversion with a sump pump
An overhead sewer is the better repair over a flood control system, with the same goal and far less maintenance. Where the sanitary and storm sewers are combined before we convert, it is sometimes paired with a sump pit and pump.
When to call for overhead sewer conversion
- Sewage backing up through the basement floor drain in heavy rain
- A basement that has flooded more than once
- An older home with the original gravity sewer
- A finished basement you want to protect before the next storm
- A neighborhood where the storm and sanitary sewers are combined
- A city rebate program you would like to use before it changes
Why customers call us for this
- City rebates handled
- Many Chicago-area towns reimburse a share of eligible flood-protection work. Capps helps clients in Arlington Heights, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Northbrook, Palatine, Schaumburg and others make the claim.
- Experienced with these systems
- Capps technicians have converted many basements and service the ejector pumps that run them.
- Property value, not just protection
- A home protected from sewer backup is easier to sell and insure. The conversion pays beyond the next storm.
Customers on this service
Experienced, thorough, customer-oriented, clean, and always on time. Capps plumbers have successfully rodded my sewers, replaced a collapsed sewer in my basement and replaced the 20-year-old hot water heater.
Mike M. · via Google The quote and final cost was less than half of their competitor's quote. Addison and his team were incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and understanding. I highly recommend and will be going to them for all our future needs.
Travis H. · via Google Very helpful to me in regards to getting new faucets, kitchen and bathroom. Casey was very helpful and answered my questions.
Debra B. · via Google Everything went well. 'Sean' the plumber was very professional. Fixed the toilet in no time at all. I was given notification when he was arriving and a picture of him. I'm very satisfied.
Margaret D. · via Google My kitchen sink got clogged right before a holiday. I called at 9 am and by 11 my problem was solved. Fast, professional, clean. Thank you technician Alex C.
Joanna C. · via Google We had a leak start on one of the coldest days of the year and called Capps. They had someone out within a few hours and they assessed and fixed the problem quickly. Their techs were very friendly and honest and their pricing is very reasonable! We'll definitely be calling them for all our future plumbing needs
Ashley D. · via Google
How Does an Overhead Sewer System Work?
Are you tired of worrying about sewer backups and basement flooding every time it rains? An overhead sewer system offers the peace of mind you deserve, especially when managing the water level during heavy rainfall. This innovative plumbing solution protects your home from sewage backups, even during heavy rain.
Capps Plumbing & Sewer has trained and licensed plumbers available to service these overhead systems. We provide reliable solutions that prevent potential issues caused by excess water in your Wheeling home.
Most homes in Wheeling, like many dwellings worldwide, rely on gravity-based sewer networks. This well-engineered system caters to wastewater’s innate tendency toward lower depths and efficiently directs it toward main sewage lines. However, despite their proven reliability over time, these systems have an inherent flaw—they could turn your basement into a pond with surprising ease!
Installing an overhead sewer system resolves this issue by preventing water from getting trapped. Our team can move your home’s sewer pipe from under your basement to above ground. Think of this update as trustworthy protection against a dreadful form of water damage—the chaos stemming from an overflowing city sewer backed up with sewage.
What Happens During an Overhead Sewer Conversion?
An overhead sewer conversion involves rerouting your home’s plumbing system. Our plumbers will install a new ejector pump within a sump pit in your basement. This pump will grind solids and wastewater through a pipe installed on an exterior wall and into your home’s sewer line.
Capps Plumbing & Sewer technicians have extensive experience in overhead sewer conversions and installations. We will integrate this system into your existing plumbing, ensuring optimal performance and long-term reliability.
The Importance of an Overhead Sewer Installation
With Wheeling’s propensity for heavy rains and fluctuating temperatures, flood protection is a major concern for many homeowners. An overhead sewer installation is one of the most effective ways to protect your property from flooding, mold growth, and other water damage.
Installing an overhead sewer also enhances your property value. With this system, potential buyers are more likely to pay top dollar for a home because it offers peace of mind that their investment is protected.
Is an Overhead Sewer System the Right Choice for Your Home?
An overhead sewer system is an excellent solution for most homes in Wheeling. It’s particularly advantageous for older properties with outdated sewer lines or those situated in flood-prone regions.
However, we understand your home has specific needs and requires a customized solution. Our team will assess your current plumbing system, discuss your concerns, and determine the feasibility of an overhead sewer conversion. This wise investment will provide you with years of worry-free plumbing.
Discover City Rebate Programs for Overhead Sewer Conversions
Your city may offer rebate programs to help offset the costs of installing an overhead sewer system! Many towns in the Chicago area provide incentives, typically offering 50% reimbursement for eligible projects or rebates of up to $2,500. We can help our clients in Arlington Heights, Bartlett, Bensenville, Bloomingdale, Des Plaines, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn, Hanover Park, Itasca, Lombard, Mount Prospect, Northbrook, Palatine, Roselle, and Schaumburg take advantage of these valuable programs.
Contact Capps Plumbing & Sewer today to learn more about how these programs can make your overhead sewer conversion more affordable!
Our Local Plumbers Offer Overhead Sewer System Installation
By scheduling overhead sewer system installation services with our experts, you can prevent sewage backups, protect your property, and ensure a reliable wastewater disposal system. Consulting with our local experts specializing in overhead sewer conversions can give you the expertise and guidance needed to make an informed decision tailored to your home’s specific requirements.
Prioritize the longevity and functionality of your plumbing infrastructure by considering the advantages an overhead sewer system can offer. Contact Capps Plumbing & Sewer today to schedule your consultation!
Overhead Sewer Conversions questions
What is an overhead sewer conversion and how does it work?
An overhead sewer conversion reroutes your plumbing so wastewater is pumped up and out of your home instead of flowing through basement-level drains. This system uses an ejector pump to prevent sewage from backing up into your basement.
Does an overhead sewer conversion prevent basement flooding?
Yes, it helps prevent basement flooding caused by sewer backups during heavy rain or system overload. However, it does not stop water from entering through foundation cracks or groundwater seepage.
When should I consider an overhead sewer conversion?
You should consider it if your home has experienced sewer backups or is located in a flood-prone area. It is especially important if you have a finished basement or valuable items stored below ground.
What are the main benefits of installing an overhead sewer system?
An overhead sewer system helps protect your home from sewage backups and costly water damage. It can also improve plumbing reliability and add long-term value to your property.
What is involved in the overhead sewer conversion process?
The process includes installing an ejector pump, rerouting basement plumbing, and connecting a new overhead discharge line. It may also involve excavation and adjustments based on your home’s layout. We also recomment to check with your local village for a possible rebate program.
Often booked alongside overhead sewer conversion
The work most often scoped on the same visit. Every one comes with a written quote before anything starts.
- 01Flood control systemsKeep the street out of your basement during heavy rain.
- 02Ejector PumpsA sewage ejector pump is crucial to many plumbing systems, particularly when wastewater must be pumped uphill to reach the main sewer line.
- 03Sump pump installation and repairPrimary and battery backup pumps, tested on completion.
Read up before you call about overhead sewer conversion
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