Lake Country Water Quality | Delafield-Hartland Clean Water Supply

Answers to Common Questions

When it comes to water quality, we all need to do our part. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions that can help.

Can I put flushable cloths down the drain?

No. Toilets are not trash cans. Just because something can physically be flushed down a toilet or is described as “flushable,” does not mean that it should be flushed. The only thing that should be flushed down the toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Flushable cleansing cloths turn into a gelatin glob that sits in sewer laterals and collects other material before clogging laterals and sewer mains completely. Improper disposal of non-flushable items, such as wipes, dental floss, diapers, paper towels, cat litter and waste, and feminine hygiene products, can cause expensive sewer backups in your home or business. Non-flushable items can also cause problems in the sanitary sewer collection system by blocking sewer pipes, damaging pumps, and requiring extra cleaning, all of which result in higher costs to the users of the system.

How can I reduce chlorides to benefit the environment and our wastewater treatment facility?

Our wastewater treatment permit requires us to monitor and reduce our chloride levels, leaving our plant as effluent. Most chlorides are derived from water softener salt, which is discharged to the sanitary sewer and ultimately to our wastewater treatment plant. Treatment plants are designed to remove solids and break down organic wastes, but chlorides cannot be removed by normal treatment processes. Excess chlorides from water softeners can flow into septic systems and local wastewater treatment plants, eventually reaching lakes, streams, rivers, and groundwater. This salt buildup can have toxic effects on aquatic plants and animals. To reduce salt usage, soften only necessary water sources, such as hot water heaters and laundry facilities, and bypass outdoor spigots and drinking water lines. Optimize your softener settings for minimum salt usage and use demand-initiated regeneration controls to further decrease environmental impact. Consider replacing your softener if you do not have a demand-based softener. Not only are you likely wasting money on excess salt usage, but you are also ultimately contributing to excess chlorides in our wastewater. Please contact our office with any questions on this important topic.

Why can’t I put fats, oils, and grease down the drain?

Fats, oils, and grease, also known as FOG, come from cooking oil, bacon grease, meat fat, food scraps, shortening, butter, margarine, gravy, dairy products, and other food products such as mayonnaise, salad dressing, and sour cream. FOG poses a significant threat to sewer systems and the environment. When poured down kitchen drains, FOG accumulates in sewer pipes, causing blockages and backups. The consequences of FOG buildup include clogged drains, sewer backups, environmental contamination, and high cleanup costs. Dispose of FOG properly by pouring it into containers and placing it in the garbage, avoiding disposal down sinks or toilets. “Dry wipe” pots, pans, and other dishes before washing to minimize the amount of FOG and solids washed down the drain.

What other things shouldn’t I put down the sewer?

It has been widely assumed that if it fits down the toilet, it can go in the sewer. WRONG!!!! There are only two things you should put in the toilet: human waste and toilet paper. Feminine products are also a common cause of sewer pump clogs. Keep plastic and cardboard out of the toilet. It should go in the garbage. Toilets are not trash cans. Just because something can physically be flushed down a toilet or is described as “flushable”, does not mean that it should be flushed. Again, the only thing that should be flushed down the toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Removing unwanted material is costly and time-consuming, and damages sewer equipment.

Why is it important to avoid phosphorous pollution?

While phosphorus is essential for plant growth and reproduction, excess amounts can fuel algae growth, adversely affecting fish and aquatic plants. To combat this issue, the district removes excess phosphorus from wastewater through mechanical and biological processes at the water reclamation facility. The nutrients extracted from wastewater are then repurposed as fertilizer for agricultural use. Though we take this step, homeowners can help by using non-phosphorus fertilizers, keeping organic matter like leaves and grass clippings off streets to prevent runoff, redirecting downspouts onto lawn areas, and properly disposing of pet waste.

Join Us in Protecting Our Water, Preserving Our Future

Let’s work together to build a cleaner, healthier future for our communities and our environment. We are here to answer your questions and provide support.