As Thanksgiving approaches, Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) would like to keep the drains of all of its rate payers in Dublin, San Ramon, and Pleasanton free and clear of grease clogs. “You might think it doesn’t hurt to rinse a small amount of grease down the drain, especially if you use hot water. But hot water only pushes the grease a bit further down the pipe where it solidifies and traps debris,” said Dan Gallagher, operations manager of the Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility operated by DSRSD. The extra load of a big holiday dinner may be all it takes to form a messy clog that backs up sewage into your home.

What is true for private plumbing becomes magnified in the public sewer system. According to Gallagher, grease is the worst enemy in the District’s battle to keep the public sewer lines open and clear. Toilets used as trash cans also contribute to the problem. DSRSD crews spend months each year cleaning grease, grit, and debris from sewer lines and treatment plant equipment.

DSRSD has a new recipe that will help keep drains and pipes working as they should, during the holidays and every day.

• Never put grease, greasy food, or cooking oil down the drain. After soaking a greasy pan, place a paper towel over the drain basket to catch grease and food particles as you slowly pour the water down the drain. Put the paper towel in your green waste cart.
• Collect waste cooking oil and grease in a container with a tight-fitting lid and bring it to a hazardous waste collection center. Find locations at www.baywise.org or www.earth911.org.
• Use your green waste container rather than your garbage disposal for food scraps.
• Never flush wipes, diapers, or other personal hygiene products down the drain, even those labeled as “flushable.” Instead, put these waste products in the trash, not in the toilet.

Property owners are responsible for maintaining and repairing their private sewer lines that feed into the public wastewater collection system. Gallagher recommends that home owners have their sewers cleaned regularly, especially if they entertain frequently, which can double the load on sewer lines. Sewer clogs can ruin holiday parties and family reunions. “Remember, home owners are responsible for the sewer pipes from their home all the way out to the public sewer in the street, while DSRSD maintains the sewer pipes in the streets, all the way to the wastewater treatment plant,” said Gallagher.

About DSRSD

Founded in 1953, Dublin San Ramon Services District serves 145,000 people, providing potable and recycled water service to Dublin and the Dougherty Valley area of San Ramon, wastewater collection and treatment to Dublin and south San Ramon, and wastewater treatment to Pleasanton (by contract). More information about the District can be obtained at www.dsrsd.com.