 Fight the Fatbergs!
Fatbergs! What are these monsters living in
our sewer systems, and how do they get there? Fatbergs can grow in pipes where fats, oils, and grease solidify and block flow. Left to its own devices, the fatberg will continue to grow, collecting bits and pieces of contraband that make it down drains. What is contraband? Cotton swabs, dental floss, and wipes that should never be flushed can all become part of the monster.
When we pour something down our drains or flush our toilets, it is out of sight out of mind. But the journey through the sewer system is only beginning. Fats, oils, and grease poured down drains in liquid form will eventually solidify and cause clogs in pipes. Adding hot water or detergent may seem like a solution, but this is only temporary and pushes the problem further down the system.
Sewer Utility crews monitor the pipes and pump stations in our sewer systems to ensure they are clear and working properly. With routine maintenance, blockages are removed before they become a problem for our customers. But fatbergs don’t only slow the flow in the pipes, they slow the maintenance crews by making additional work and increased operation costs for sewer service.
Most fatbergs occur in residential areas. Commercial producers of grease are
regulated and required to provide proper disposal, but there are no rules on how we use our plumbing at home. Neighborhoods with recurring maintenance issues may receive notice from the Sewer Utility to make residents aware and encourage proper disposal methods.
Help us fight fatbergs by keeping fats, oils, and grease out of drains.
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