How to maintain your sewer grinder system

Unlike gravity sewer systems located in areas where the terrain is relatively level and soils are not rocky, your sewer system requires a grinder pump to grind solids small enough to be carried through small diameter pressure sewer mains to the treatment plant.  Replacement of a damaged grinder pump costs the City approximately $2,000 – a cost that ultimately is passed on to the customer.

Preventive measures that will help maintain a long and dependable service are:

• Ensure that no trash is flushed down the sewer drains (causes the grinder blades to seize up and the pump will not work);
• Pour grease in a container and put it in the trash instead of pouring it down the drain (grease coagulates in cool water of grinder basins restricting on/off float switches);
• Utilize liquid soaps for dishwashing and laundry (powder soaps coagulate in cool water of grinder basins restricting on/off float switches);
• Pour enzymes (available free at City Hall) down the drain to promote treatment process within grinder basin;
• Never disconnect or turn off breaker to grinder pump when leaving town.  Toilet or faucet leaks can overflow grinder basins, back up into house drains and cause damage to pumps;  be alert to any unusual noises or red light coming from the grinder system and report them to the City as soon as possible, even after hours (830-598-8741, Option #1);
• Please make sure everyone who utilizes your home is aware of these facts.

If you have a question, please contact City Hall at 830‑598‑8741.