- You Are In:
- Wastewater
- Let's be clear
Let's be clear
Blocked drains are a problem. We work hard to keep them flowing.
Most blocks are caused by wipes, cooking fat and oils. These items prevent waste from flowing properly, causing major problems in the drainage network. This can result in sewer flooding, environmental pollution and even the back up of sewage into your property.
Guernsey Water | Unblocktober from TDR | Film & Production on Vimeo.
Along with an annual maintenance program to clean approximately 35km sewer per year across the Island, Guernsey Water frequently has to clear out sewers or unblock pumps around the island when they become blocked or restricted by a build-up of unsuitable products being flushed down the loo or washed down the drain. The unflushable items that do make their way to Belle Greve Wastewater centre, contribute to the staggering 1.6 tonnes of non-biodegradable waste removed EACH WEEK.
In the bathroom:
Bin
Wipes, disposable menstrual products, cotton buds and hand towels
Flush
The three Ps: pee, poo and toilet paper
Even wipes labelled as flushable do not break down quickly enough within the Island's wastewater network, contributing to potential blockages, sewer flooding and damage. We ask that Islander's flush responsibly, only flushing the three Ps. If you are curious to learn more about the degradability of wipes, why not try out our home experiment at the bottom of this page? Its a great way to get the kids involved too!
In the kitchen:
Learn the correct way to dispose of fats, oils and grease to keep your private drainage and the Island's wider sewer network flowing as it should.
Oil in small quantities
- Wipe out pans with kitchen roll and place in your kitchen caddy / food waste bin. Please keep kitchen roll to a minimum.
Roasting juices
Pour these into a cup or pot, once solidified and cool, remove them from the pot or cup and place in your kitchen caddy / food waste bin.
Other solid fats, like butter
Can be placed (once cool) into your kitchen caddy / food waste bin.
Vegetable oil in larger quantities
Can be taken to Longue Hougue Household Waste and Recycling Centre.
Commercial quantities of vegetable oil
- Please contact Waste Oil Recycling on (01481) 241133 to arrange collection for a small charge.