Grinder Pump Information

 According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, a grinder pump is "a mechanical device that shreds solids and raises sewage to a higher elevation through pressure sewers."

• Homeowner Operation and Maintenance Manual for Environment/One grinder pumps
• Environment/One Operation and Maintenance Questions and Answers
• What Happens When the Lights Go Out?
• In the Event your Grinder Pump Alarm Signals?

Fat Free Sewers

Did you make a New Year’s resolution to live a healthier life-style, cutting fats, oils and grease from your diet? These materials not only have a negative impact on your body’s internal “plumbing”, but they are very bad for the sewer system. Fats, oils and grease or “FOG” can clog sewer lines leading to overflows and back-ups. Sewage can back-up into your home creating serious health hazards or it can over-flow to the environment threatening our waterways.

There are several, very simple things you can do to help prevent sewerage back-ups and overflows.

• Never pour grease down sink or toilet drains! Instead pour or scrape grease from pots and pans into a can. Allow the grease to cool and solidify (refrigerate if necessary) and then throw away in the trash.
• You can scrape or wipe (using paper towel) grease or greasy solids directly to the trash.
• Use your sink strainer faithfully to collect “greasy” solids and empty it to the trash.
• Whenever possible, avoid using your garbage disposal. Scrape solid materials to the trash for disposal.
• Avoid the use of additives that dissolve grease. This allows the grease to liquefy and pass down the sewer line causing problems in other areas.

This year, please be mindful of the things you put into your body and what you put into our sewer system. Sewerage back-ups and overflows cost everyone!

Save Our Sewers!

Do not put grease, kitty litter, egg shells, coffee grounds, feminine hygiene products, rags, hypodermic needles or other unwanted items down the sewer drains.

These items snag or settle in main sewer pipelines and the individual pipelines that service your home or business. Once there, they restrict flow and can cause the sewer to backup into your or your neighbor’s home or business. Flows in in sewer lines typically contain bacteria and fecal matter making cleaning up a backup messy and costly.

Hypodermic needles and razors present a hazard for collection and wastewater employees. These items can penetrate protective gear, exposing staff to bacteria, pathogens or medication. Needles need to be recapped and placed in a “sharps container” or any plastic container. When the container is full, securely seal the container and contact your local pharmacy for proper disposal.

By following the above guidelines, you help keep our sanitary sewer lines clean and operating efficiently. You will also be helping yourself and others avoid sewer backups into homes and businesses.