Sewer Maintenance

Sewer Maintenance
 

In order to accomplish a safe and sanitary transfer of wastewater, it is critical that sewer pipes do not become obstructed by debris leading to overflows of wastewater into buildings or the environment.  As a resident or business, you play a key role in preventing obstructions from being placed into the wastewater system by paying close attention to what is poured down the drain or flushed down the toilet.

By placing certain items into the wastewater transfer system clogs are formed, resulting in sewer backups.  Please be advised that you can help prevent these obstructions by not disposing of certain products or items into the sink, toilet or other plumbing fixtures.  In some cases, these products tell you they are flushable, but they are not and will lead to sewer backups.

Do not flush down the toilet:

Baby wipes, cleaning wipes (i.e. sanitizing, shop, dusting wipes or mop heads), toilet cleaning scrubbers, diapers, rags, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, latex gloves/condoms, large food scraps.

Other items which should not be disposed of in the sink, toilet or other plumbing fixtures are:

Garage waste products such as oil, grease, gasoline or antifreeze and household items like ashes, corrosives, glass, metals, paint, poison solvents or medicines.

Additionally, cooking oils and grease will cause clogs in the sewer pipe.  If introduced into the sewer system, these products will congeal within the pipeline and eventually block the line so it restricts wastewater flow in residential applications.  Grease and cooking oils should be placed into a can and disposed of, along with your regular garbage once cooled.

The Department of Public Works asks that you do your part to eliminate these items from entering into the sewer system and to help reduce the occurrence of sewer system overflows in your neighborhood.  Your cooperation is vital in preventing sewer obstructions.