Friday, March 29, 2024

Stopped-up sewer lines caused by excessive grease

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Stopped-up sewer lines caused by excessive grease have caused blockages which has led to extra work and accompanying headaches for the city of Gatesville.

"In October we had 21 sewer stop-ups and in November we had 25, and in most cases a significant amount of grease was involved," said City Manager Bill Parry. "Part of the problem is    

"It's not mom putting a little grease down the drain, it's a significant amount. We are also getting reports of used motor oil in the sewer system which is definitely not good. City workers are spending an inordinate amount of time cleaning up because of these fats, oil and grease problems."

Many of the problems stem from commercial properties but they can also cause problems for other businesses and residences nearby.

"We had five sewer main stop-ups behind (one convenience store/gas station) on Highway 84, and it affected homes as well."

City Inspector Robert Featherston said part of the problem is that the way requirements are worded can sometimes be unclear.

"The plumbing code can sometimes be vague," he said. "All food places have a grease trap. Some run hot water through them instead of having them cleaned" which causes problems down the line."

He suggested the city enact a requirement for businesses to have grease traps pumped and cleaned by a contractor, which would alleviate the problems.

Parry told the Gatesville City Council that the concern will be placed on a future Council agenda.