Sanitation District No. 1 is reminding Northern Kentucky residents to adopt sewer-smart habits this holiday season to avoid costly plumbing problems and protect the environment.
The end of the year is one of the busiest times for clogged drains and sewer backups, as cooking large meals and hosting guests increase the risk of fats, oils and grease clogging pipes or non-flushable items causing plumbing issues.
“Putting the wrong things down the drain can clog pipes, slow drainage and even cause hazardous sewer overflows,” said Chris Cole, director of enterprise communications at Sanitation District No. 1. “By adopting a few simple habits, residents can avoid these issues and help protect our waterways.”
Fats, oil and grease found in cooking byproducts like gravy, sauces and meat drippings harden as they cool, sticking to pipes and causing blockages that can lead to backups and overflows.
Cold weather during the winter makes this happen even faster. To prevent these issues, let leftover fats, oil and grease cool, pour it into a container like a jar or can, and toss the container in the trash. Wipe greasy pots, pans and dishes with a paper towel before washing, then throw the towel in the trash. Even with a garbage disposal, your sink isn’t designed to handle those materials.
Non-flushable items are another common cause of plumbing issues, especially when guests are visiting. Items like wipes, cotton balls and menstrual products don’t break down in the sewer system and can lead to blockages or damaged laterals. Sanitation District No. 1 reminds residents to flush only bodily waste and toilet paper. To make it easier, place a wastebasket in the bathroom for non-flushable items and consider posting a small sign to remind guests to avoid flushing anything else.
If a sewer backup does occur, Sanitation District No. 1 is available 24/7 to help. Residents can call (859) 578-7450, option one, to report an issue. The sanitation district will investigate to ensure the public sewer system is functioning properly. If the issue is within private plumbing, a plumber may need to be contacted.
Throughout the holiday season, the sanitation district encourages residents to adopt sewer-smart habits while also reaching out to landlords, property managers, and homeowners associations to share these important tips with their communities. Free resources, including guides, graphics and ready-to-use messaging, are available here to make spreading the word easy. These efforts aim to protect property, health and the environment, helping everyone enjoy a stress-free winter.