But the clumps of waste that build up on our sewer system – sometimes known as ‘fatbergs’ – are costing us a lot of money.
GV Water have released an image of a disgusting build-up of debris at the Kyabram Wastewater Management Facility, which shows wet wipes, condoms, ear buds and sanitary items in a thick sludge.
It’s enough to make your stomach churn, and GV Water’s Darren Sharman said Kyabram was not alone.
“Most of the problems we have are across our entire system,” he said.
“In our sewers, all the water goes through our piping system. When someone flushes wet wipes, sanitary items or even nappies down the toilet, it causes significant problems.
“Tree roots contribute to the problem. Any moisture leaking through pipes underground is quickly found by roots which cause blockages and breaks. Large items tossed down the drain get caught behind these root blockages.’’
Fats and oils poured down the sink then congeal to that build-up, which harden and become difficult to dislodge.
“That’s why we advocate the three p’s – poo, pee and (toilet) paper. That’s all that should be getting flushed,” Mr Sharman said.
GV Water has had instances in Shepparton where pump stations have been shut for several days to repair the damage done by the growing build up of waste.
The problem got so bad they had to get specialist scuba divers to come in and look for blockage. Yes, that’s a real job someone has to do.
And all because we’re all flushing our wet wipes down the drain.
“Bathrooms and toilets generate the most problems and we’re doing a lot of work in trying to educate people and understand their habits,” Mr Sharman said.
“People might not recognise such a big issue, but if you think about the cost of hiring a plumber and the impact that has on your expenses, you begin to get a better understanding of the impact this is having on our system.”
And if you’re not sure if you can flush an item or not, maybe ask your kids. Over the last three years, GV Water has run education programs in schools across Kyabram, Girgarre and Stanhope.
“We spend a lot of time in primary schools with our education team and we hope they can be a part of a new generation with a better understanding of how our waste system works,” Mr Sharman said.
Or, just stick to the basics — poo, pee and paper — and help keep the sewerage system flush with the right kind of waste.
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