Yarra Ranges fatbergs cost customers over $200,000

In the last two years removing fatbergs from the sewer system in the Yarra Ranges has cost the community over $225,000.

Yarra Valley Water is reminding customers to be mindful of what they put down the drain, as a stinky overflowing sewer is something no one wants to deal with.

Pat McCafferty, Managing Director at Yarra Valley Water said that the amount of fat, oil, and grease going down the drain is a growing concern, with everything that goes down the drain ending up in the sewer system.

“Everyone benefits from well-functioning sewer systems, and while it’s not something that’s top of mind for most people, our sewers play a fundamental role in supporting the community’s health and well-being.  

“By putting things down the drain which shouldn’t be there, you can damage and block pipes for households and businesses, and cause serious damage to our sewer system and the environment. When fats, oils and grease cool they turn into solids, this sticky mess causes blockages and clings to other things in the sewer which shouldn’t be there, such as wet wipes and tree roots. These blockages can cause sewage spills both inside and outside of the home.

“It is also important that business customers are doing their part and have the right equipment, such as a grease trap to stop fats and oils entering the sewer, and that these are regularly maintained.

“Nasty odours, damage to pipes and expensive plumbing bills can all be avoided by not putting fats, oils and grease down the drain. We see the scale and damage at the end point of the sewer system, with pipes and pumps at our sewage treatment plants damaged, blocked or covered in fatty residue” added Mr McCafferty.

Handy hints you can use at home:

• Use a sink strainer to prevent food scraps and other household waste, from going down the drain.
• Pour kitchen fats and oils into a disposable container; seal it and throw it away with the rest of your household rubbish.
• Wipe greasy pots and pans with a paper towel before washing.

To find out what not to put down the drain visit www.yvw.com.au/nonumberthrees

Business customers may create liquid waste, including clean wash water used during business activities, which is discharged into the sewer system. These customers can contact Yarra Valley Water on (03) 9872 1240 to discuss their requirements, or visit www.yvw.com.au/tradewaste for more details.