Sanitary Sewer

Responsibilities

 
The Public Works Department maintains roughly 100 miles of underground sanitary sewer lines and five pump stations to ensure that wastewater is carried away efficiently from homes in the Township. Maintenance includes cleaning and televising sewer lines, root control, clearing blockages, pump station maintenance and clearing rights-of-way.

Large pump in pump station                 Sewer inspection trailer


Shown above: Pump station (left) and the Public Works Dept. uses the inspection trailer to inspect for breaks, roots, blockage and house connection locations (right).

Dial 8-1-1 Before You Dig!

 

Why should you call? Safe digging is no accident! If you are installing a fence or deck, or digging for a mailbox post, patio or other excavation project, it is important to Know What’s Below. Dial 8-1-1 or 1-800-242-1776 before you dig. The utility companies do not want an accident, either. The best way to learn where underground utility lines are located is to call before you dig.

PA 811

Manhole Covers


If you ever see a manhole cover off, broken or missing, please call 9-1-1 to report it. Any of these conditions presents a safety hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.

manhole open cropped

General Information


Remove Fats, Oils and Grease Correctly to Prevent Blockages


Fats, oils and greases can cause havoc in sewers. Over time, they coagulate, build up, and block the pipes. This can cause sanitary sewer overflows that threaten the environment and backups that can damage your home.

The best practice is to remove oil and grease from dishes, pans, fryers, and griddles. Cool first, then skim, scrape or wipe off grease. Then, throw it in the trash. Rinsing off oil and grease with hot water simply sends the grease down the sewer line to coagulate. Garbage disposals do not keep grease out of the system. These units are designed to shred solid materials into smaller pieces.

Therefore, we ask you not to put any fats, oils, or greases, even in diluted form, down your drain.

You Can Help Us Defray Costs


West Whiteland Township pays for the pumping and treatment of each gallon that enters the Township’s sanitary sewer system. We ask that you partner with the Township in reducing sewer costs by eliminating any extraneous flow into the sanitary sewer system. Please do not direct water from your down spouts or sump pumps into the system and repair or replace any damaged stacks in your lawn. Also, leaky toilets, sinks, showers, etc. can add gallons daily, so please consider repairing or replacing any leaking fixtures. This will also save money on your water bill. If you have any questions or need assistance, please email the Public Works Department.