Sanitation / Grinder System
Due to the HSB hilly terrain, gravity is not able to transfer wastewater from each home to the the treatment plant located on FM 2831. For this reason, a grinder pump is installed at each residence connected to the city's sewage system. The pump subjects the wastewater to a grinding process and then provides the power to transmit it. Initially, the pump is paid for by the builder or the original homeowner and is maintained by the city at no cost (with certain limitations). Care of the pump by the homeowner is vital in extending the life of the pump and keeping utility costs down by reducing labor spent in repairs and replacements.
The majority of grinder pump systems service all are the following:
- Grease causing float switch failure.
- Garbage causing grinder to jam or burn up the pump.
- Electrical/plumbing component failure.
Preventative measures that will help maintain a long and dependable service include
- Being alert to any unusual noises or red light coming from the grinder system and report them to the city as soon as possible, even after hours or on holidays or weekends.
- Disposing of grease in the trash instead of pouring it down the drain since grease coagulates in the cool water of grinder basins and restricts float switches.
- Utilizing liquid soaps for dish washing and laundry since powders cause issues similar to grease.
- Pouring enzymes down the drain to promote the treatment process within the grinder. The enzymes are available at no cost at the HSB City Hall.
- Refraining from disconnecting or turning off the breaker to the grinder pump when leaving town. Toilet or faucet leaks can overflow grinder basins, back up into house drains and cause damage to pumps.
- Ensuring that no trash or fibrous wipes are flushed down the sewer drains.
- Running fresh water through your plumbing for approximately five minutes if you are going to leave your residence for more than one month. This allows the grinder pump to turn on and pump waste into the sewer mainlines.
To report issues with a grinder pump system or to have questions answered,
contact the city office at 830-598-8741, option #2.