Notice to All System Users
NOTICE TO ALL SYSTEM USERS:
This winter we experienced a sewer force main clog in Tacoma village due to fats, oils, greases and wipes. Fortunately, District staff was diligent and noticed the issue before the clogged force main could cause the lift station to overflow and cause an uncontrolled spill. As the clog occurred during colder weather it also froze a portion of the line which made it impossible to clear until warmer weather this spring. For February and March, the lift station required a pumper truck at a minimum twice weekly to pump out and haul the wastewater to the sewer plant to be dumped at the head works.
Fats, oils, greases and wipes are a serious problem for drain lines within the home the sewer service line to the home, the main sewer collection lines, sewer pumps and ultimately the wastewater treatment plant. These blockages cost thousands of dollars to unclog and can cost upwards of $10,000.00 in pumping costs depending on how long and how frequent pumping is necessary.
Running toilets and sinks are another issue that we see regularly, these affect both water usage and wastewater flows. Please make sure that caretaker’s and renters are keeping an eye out for running toilets and sinks. The average flow for a running toilet is 3 gallons per minute, or 4,320 gallons per day, 30,240 gallons per week and 120,960 gallons per month. It really adds up that fast, so please be conscientious and help us conserve water.
Thank you,
Eric Hassel
District Manager
Purgatory Metropolitan District