Toilet paper is the ONLY manufactured product that should ever go down your commode. Below is a list of commonly flushed items that should ALWAYS go in the trash, along with a video, courtesy of the Water Environment Federation, that shows what happens when you flush non-flushable items.
The Water Environment Federation tests what happens when non-flushable items go down the drain.
Fats, oils and greases, collectively referred to as FOGs in the wastewater world, are organic compounds that come from vegetable, plant or animal sources and are composed of long chain triglycerides (fatty compounds). When these compounds enter the sewer system, they stick together and can accumlate on the walls of the sewer pipes. Overtime, this can cause severe blockages and create serious problems for our wastewater collection system.
Just like fatty foods do to our arteries, FOGs stick to the sides of the sewer pipes and can create serious problems like:
The best way to prevent FOGs in the sewer line is to follow these simple guidelines:
Do NOT dispose of fats, oils or greases down any sink or drain. Instead, think: Scrape, Soak, Store.
Leftover yellow grease can be reused or recycled. Some companies will even pay you to take your grease away! It can be used to manufacture soaps, plastics, cosmetics, and even as an additive for animal feeder.
Commercial entities (churches, schools, restaurants, clubhouses, hospitals, etc.) should also develop and implement FOG Prevention Plans that include complete collection system protection equipment like sink strainers, grease traps, grease interceptors, etc. Click here to download more information about commercial FOG Prevention Plans.
Click here to download a printable version for your home, office, church or other facility.
There are some tell-tale signs that something may be wrong with your plumbing, including:
If you experience one of these issues, or if you see signs of damage or apparent tampering with any part of our collection system, including septic tank access covers, feel free to call our Wastewater Team at 615-672-4110, Monday – Friday, 8am – 4pm.
New to the area? View our Service Area Map to confirm we are your water service provider.