I'm planning to set up an RV site on my property for a friend to stay in. I already have water access in the area, and I'm looking to run electricity out to the spot. However, my plumber informed me that we can't run the plumbing for the sewage in the same trench as the electrical line. The electrical needs to be 24 inches deep continuously, while the plumbing requires a specific slope to ensure proper drainage. This has led to an increase of $2000 in the cost because we need to dig a second trench. I'm hoping to find a way to make this project more efficient without compromising safety or functionality. Any ideas?
2 Answers
It sounds like you're dealing with the classic plumbing and electrical trench situation! Unfortunately, the plumber is right that you can't mix both lines in the same trench. The plumbing absolutely needs that slope for proper drainage, especially for sewage where gravity plays a big role. If you decide to go ahead with the second trench, just make sure to follow local regulations for depth and spacing between the two lines. It might be pricey, but it's really important for the system to work correctly.
Good luck with your project! I don't think there's a way to combine the trenches without risking issues later because both plumbing and electrical have very specific requirements. If you're trying to save costs, maybe see if there's a different plumbing contractor who might offer a better rate. But in the end, it's essential to make sure everything is done by the book to avoid any headaches down the line.