The City of Port Moody’s wastewater collection system carries wastewater from homes and businesses to Metro Vancouver’s treatment facilities. Once the water is treated, it is safely released into the environment. The system includes both public infrastructure maintained by the City and sewer pipes on private property that connect buildings to the City’s sanitary sewer system.
What is wastewater?
Wastewater is water that has been used in homes, businesses, and industrial sites that is no longer suitable for drinking or cleaning. Once it enters a drain, it becomes wastewater and must be treated before being safely returned to the environment. This includes water from:
- sinks
- showers
- toilets
- dishwashers
- washing machines
- other plumbing fixtures
What affects the City’s wastewater collection system?
The main factors that impact the wastewater system are:
- stormwater that enters the sanitary system
- materials that block the system or reduce capacity, including:
- unnecessary water use
- fats, oils and grease (FOG)
- inflow and infiltration (I&I)
Wasting water and continuous flows
Constant water flow such as running toilets, leaking faucets, and dripping fixtures can add unnecessary water to the wastewater system. Over time, it can contribute to higher water consumption, increased wastewater treatment costs, and reduced capacity within the sewer system. By regularly maintaining your plumbing fixtures, you can help reduce unnecessary water use and support the efficient operation of wastewater infrastructure.
Fats, oils, and grease (FOG)
Cooking by-products like FOG can solidify in sewer pipes. This increases the risk of blocking the wastewater collection system and causing backups. Examples of FOG include:
- cooking oils and grease
- butter, margarine, and lard
- meat fats and food residues
- sauces and food scraps
For guidance on disposing of FOG, see Metro Vancouver’s resource on Disposal of Fats, Oils and Grease at Home.
Inflow and Infiltration (I&I)
Although the wastewater system is designed to carry wastewater from homes and businesses, rainwater, and groundwater can sometimes enter the sanitary system. This is known as inflow and infiltration (I&I). Excess water from I&I reduces system capacity, increases wastewater treatment costs, and places additional strain on pipes and pump stations. It can also increase the risk of sewer overflows and lead to higher infrastructure and maintenance costs over time. For more information about I&I, you can watch Metro Vancouver’s video or read the accordions below.
