The older core of the city is served by combined sewers. Citizens Energy Group’s DigIndy tunnel system was built to capture combined sewer overflows, but basements in older neighborhoods can still see backups during intense storms. Cold winters freeze pipes in exterior walls, garages and crawl spaces.

Housing & construction
Bungalows and foursquares in older neighborhoods like Irvington and Broad Ripple, mid-century ranches, and large newer suburbs in Hamilton County.
Plumbing services in Indianapolis

Sump Pump Repair in Indianapolis
Spring storm season
Indianapolis sump pump repair →
Water Softeners & Filtration in Indianapolis
City hardness
Indianapolis water softeners & filtration →
Sewer Line Repair in Indianapolis
Roots in clay laterals
Indianapolis sewer line repair →Also common in Indianapolis: drain cleaning, water heater repair.
Common plumbing problems in Indianapolis
What makes Indianapolis plumbing different
Hard water
Mineral-heavy water builds sediment in heaters and scale on fixtures.
Combined sewers in the older core
Older neighborhoods drain to combined sewers that can back up in heavy rain.
Basements and sump pumps
Spring storms and high water tables keep sump pumps busy.
Freeze exposure
Crawl spaces and exterior walls are common freeze points.
Seasonal plumbing calendar for Indianapolis
- SpringTest sump pumps and clear basement drains before storm season.
- WinterInsulate exposed pipes and disconnect hoses before hard freezes.
Plumbing emergency in Indianapolis?
- Close the main water shutoff, or the fixture valve if the problem is in one place.
- Stay away from water near outlets or the electrical panel.
- For sewage backups, stop using all drains.
- If you smell gas, leave and call the gas utility or 911 from outside.
Indianapolis plumbing questions
Is Indianapolis water hard?
Yes, much of the area’s water is hard. Check Citizens Energy’s water quality report for current hardness.
Why does my Indianapolis basement back up in storms?
Older neighborhoods use combined sewers that can surcharge during intense rain, pushing water back through floor drains.
What is DigIndy?
It’s a deep tunnel system built by Citizens Energy Group to capture combined sewer overflows and reduce pollution in local waterways.
Do Indianapolis homes need sump pumps?
Many homes with basements rely on them during spring storms and high groundwater.
Nearby service areas
We also serve communities around Indianapolis, including Carmel, Fishers, Greenwood, Lawrence, Speedway, Noblesville, Plainfield.


