Tips to Protect Your Pipes

Toilets and drains are not, in fact, trashcans. The pipes that leave your property move wastewater into our our community's system and to a District facility for treatment. Items like wipes and cotton balls, as well as fat, oil and grease, can cause backups and a potential health threat.

The simplest step is to use a trashcan. Scrape dishes into the trash or compost before using the dishwasher

Never flush:

  • "Flushable” wipes
  • Paper towels, facial tissues and napkins
  • Feminine products (tampons or pads)
  • Food (even scraps)
  • Medications
  • Cotton balls, cotton swabs/Q tips
  • Diapers
  • Cigarette butts
  • Hair
  • Plastic

Some wipes are marketed as "flushable." They are not and can cause costly damage to your system.

Medications, paints and solvents should be disposed of properly and safely.

 

Pan pouring grease into a can. Tips on disposing grease and wipes properly to prevent pipe clogs.

 

Read our Cover Your Flush handout for more information:

Guide on what not to flush to avoid clogs, insurance options for sewer backups, and a warning about flushing non-degradable items. Click here for the full ADA PDF.

What should I do if I have a sewer backup? 

  1. Don't run water down any drains or toilets in your home until the clogs are cleared.
  2. Check if neighbors are affected. This could indicate a problem in the main line.
  3. Call a plumber to assist with clearing the issue and closing your drains.
  4. Call your utility to report the issue. They will recommend a plan of action and check the main line.
  5. Call your insurance company to determine what coverage may be available.
  6. Call a contractor to clean and restore your home to a livable condition. Your insurance company should be able to recommend one.

Visit coveryourflush.com for more information.