Wastewater Related Questions

• What happens to the water I flush?

Sanitary sewage wastewater flows by gravity through underground pipes to the wastewater treatment plant where the water is treated physically, chemically, and biologically before being discharged to the deep injection wells, or before being reclaimed for public use in irrigation.

• How does the City treat wastewater?

At the wastewater plant, sewage from the collection system enters the preliminary treatment facility that screens out objects and lets sand and gravel settle out of the wastewater. The water flows into tanks to be mixed with oxygen and activated  sludge. In these aeration tanks, bacteria break down or stabilize organic materials. Next, bacteria are allowed to settle out in clarifiers. The settled sludge is returned to the aeration tanks. The effluent is then either discharged to a deep injection well or further processed to be used as reclaimed water for irrigation.

•  How do I connect to sewer if my house is on a septic system?

The first step is to call a Utilities Customer Service Representative at (321) 952-3420 or 1-800-952-3420 to determine if a sewer is available at your home.

•  Is my service effected by what I put down the drain?

Yes, people who dispose of such things as grease, motor oil, eggshells, coffee grounds, and kitty litter down toilets, garbage disposals, and sewer manholes frequently clog sewer lines. Some helpful suggestions that will assist your local utility company include: Do not dispose of grease down drains such as cooking oils, fat, etc; seek out hazardous materials disposal sites for the disposition of motor oils, transmission fluids, anti-freeze, paints, turpentine and caustic household cleaners; and coffee grounds, eggshells, kitty litter and the like should be disposed of, properly wrapped or sealed, in solid waste containers.

• If I have a sewer problem, whom do I call?

As a homeowner/tenant, you are responsible for your sewer problems from the street to your home. If you are having a problem in one drain in your home however, all other drains are working properly, you may want to contact your plumber. If all your drains are blocked, you should first contact Palm Bay Utilities. Any blockage difficulties or breaks in the sewer main will be remedied by Palm Bay Utilities. You can contact Palm Bay Utilities’ Customer Service at (321) 952-3420 or  1-800-952-3420. The Utilities after hours-emergency number is  (321) 952-3478.

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