When it comes to municipal sewer systems, plenty of misconceptions still swirl among the public. Here are five common myths that sewer professionals often have to correct.
1. “Anything Flushable is Safe for the Sewer” Just because something says “flushable” on the label doesn’t mean it belongs in the sewer. Wipes, paper towels, and hygiene products don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause major blockages.
2. “Fats, Oils and Grease Just Wash Away” Grease might go down the drain as a liquid, but once it cools, it hardens and sticks to pipes. Over time, it builds up, leading to costly sewer backups.
3. “Storm Drains and Sewer Lines Are the Same” Many people don’t realize storm drains and sanitary sewers are separate systems. Anything dumped into a storm drain goes directly into local waterways, untreated.
4. “Municipal Sewer Systems Can Handle Anything” From industrial waste to so-called biodegradable plastics, people assume the sewer can handle it all. In reality, municipal systems have limits, and improper waste disposal can damage treatment plants and impact water quality.
5. “Out of Sight, Out of Mind” Just because people don’t see the sewer system doesn’t mean it doesn’t need attention. Aging infrastructure, heavy rains, and population growth all put stress on sewer lines, making maintenance and upgrades critical.
Public education is key to keeping municipal sewer systems running smoothly. What’s the most surprising myth you’ve had to debunk?
