Liquid Waste Management

Photograph of house sewer-line clogged with cooking greaseAn important relationship exists between water consumption and water discharge. Discharge refers to wastewater that enters the sewage system either directly from the home or indirectly through stormwater catch basins. Any excess or unused water entering the system unnecessarily adds strain to it. Furthermore, wastewater containing harmful substances or chemicals can disrupt the efficiency of the system, potentially damaging it or the post treatment destination site the system feeds into (local waterways).

Inside the home

Household cleaners, grease, oil, plastics, and some food or paper products should not be flushed down drains or be disposed of in such a way that they are able to enter the sewage system. Chemicals poured down the drain can interfere with the chemical and biological breakdown of the wastes during the wastewater treatment process. Over time, such products can also corrode the pipes that are carrying waste/storm water from the home into the system to treatment facilities.

    Hazardous products commonly found in the home:

  • Paint
  • Paint Thinner
  • Pesticides
  • Fertilizers
  • Gasoline
  • Antifreeze
  • Windshield Wiper Fluid
  • Batteries
  • Furniture Polish
  • Oven Cleaner
  • Drain Opener
  • Motor Oil
  • Brake Fluid
  • Adhesives

    Avoid purchasing products with the following warnings listed on the label:

  • Caustic
  • Corrosive
  • Danger
  • Explosive
  • Flammable
  • Poison
  • Toxic
  • Volatile

For safe disposal of household products, suggestions and recipes for environmentally friendly alternatives to household cleaners and polishes, see Recycling Council of BC website or Engineering Services Solid Waste.