Before arriving at the Plum Island or Daniel Island Wastewater Treatment Plants, wastewater must travel through a series of sewer lines. Charleston Water System has more than some 8,500 manholes and 500 miles of sewer mains, including gravity and force mains.  Because of Charleston's flat topography, Charleston Water System has a large number of pump stations--about 180--that are needed to pump wastewater across long distances.

The Wastewater Collection Department is responsible for operating and maintaining the sewer system, including cleaning manholes, conducting smoke and dye testing to reduce infiltration and inflow, and other corrective and preventative maintenance activities.

In April 2003, Charleston Water System received the Water Environment Association of South Carolina’s Excellence in Collection System Operation Award for outstanding achievement in quality operations and maintenance.

Capacity, Management, Operations & Maintenance Program (CMOM)

In accordance with new EPA regulations, Charleston Water System has implemented a CMOM program for wastewater collection operations. The program is designed to reduce the occurrence of sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) during periods of heavy rainfall, when stormwater may flow into the sewer system and overwhelm system capacity.

Charleston Water's CMOM program includes detailed record keeping of SSOs, regulatory reporting, emergency response plans, public communication, and preventative maintenance.

To learn more about Charleston Water's CMOM program, contact the Manager's Office.

Grease Clogs Can Cost You

Save money and avoid messy sewer back-ups by disposing of grease and cooking oils in the trash—not down the drain.

Store used cooking grease in a closed container. When it’s full, secure the lid, tie in a plastic bag, and dispose with your household garbage.

Did you know…

	When you pour grease or cooking oils down your drain, they cool and harden in sewer lines. Over time, the build-up of grease can form blockages, possibly causing sewage to back up in your home or overflow in the street. This presents a threat to public health and the environment.
	A grease clog in the sewer line on your property can cost you more than $200 to unclog.
	Unblocking one of Charleston Water System’s grease-clogged sewer mains costs about $500 in manpower and equipment, which increases Charleston Water System’s operating costs—and your sewer bill.
	Hot, soapy water does not prevent grease clogs. The grease will cool and settle out as it travels through your sewer pipes.
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