Knox Wastewater Superintendent Kelly Clemons explained to the Knox Board of Public Works last week that the staff has been handing out pamphlets explaining what can and can not be flushed into the sewer system.
The wastewater collection system can not handle some items and it does cause great wear and tear on the equipment. Clemons noted that disposable baby wipes, shop towels, sanitary and cleaning products, plus oil and grease are causing blockages in sewer lines and lift station pumps. These products can also cause blockages in pipes inside your home.
Flushing paper towels and other garbage down the toilet can create sewer backups and overflows. It is also not recommended to flush expired medications or other drugs down the toilet.
Many times residents confuse disposable items as being flushable. Even if an item is flushable, you are still safer to place the item in the trashcan. If you encounter any issues with your septic system and find yourself in need of a septic tank cleaning, you may need to hire a professional to conduct septic system inspections.
