What is a potential consequence of failing to manage infiltration and inflow (I/I)?

The potential consequence of failing to manage infiltration and inflow (I/I) is increased operational costs and treatment capacity issues. When excessive water enters the sewer system from groundwater (infiltration) or stormwater (inflow), it overwhelms the treatment facilities. This can lead to several problems, including the need for more frequent treatment, increased energy consumption, and potentially costly upgrades to infrastructure to handle the excess volume. Additionally, if the treatment systems are overloaded, it can result in untreated sewage being discharged into the environment, causing significant regulatory and environmental concerns. Therefore, proper management of I/I is crucial to maintaining efficient operations and minimizing costs related to wastewater treatment.