Projects

The bar screens are the first line of defense at ACUA's wastewater treatment facility. Before entering the plant, bar screens remove large solids from wastewater to protect pumps and other equipment. The screens help to catch wipes, rags, toys and more items that should not be flushed down the drain.

Above is an example of the debris caught in the bar screens. Trash, wipes, rags and more. Please remember, even if your wipes say they are flushable, they should be placed in the trash and not flushed!

The bar screens are a big help to ACUA Employees because it makes the process cleaner and more efficient. With the old system, employees had to manually collect and dispose of the debris caught in the screens. The updated bar screens are fully automated, which makes operations safer and easier. The system also has an automated lime-feeding system that helps neutralize odors.

Debris caught by the bar screens are transported and dumped in the landfill.

Everyone plays a role in helping us protect our critical wastewater infrastructure. There are certain items that should never be flushed down the toilet or placed down the drain. Help us sustain our infrastructure by keeping the following items out of your drain:

• "Flushable" wipes - these items, while marketed as flushable, commonly cause major build up in sewage pipes
• Tampons, condoms and feminine hygiene products
• Q-tips, tissues or paper towels
• Cooking oil and grease residue - bag oil or place in a non-recyclable container and throw in the trash
• Fat trimmings
• Toilet cleaning pads - yes, even those that claim to be "flushable"
• Medicine (Click here to learn about proper disposal)

Toys and other items recovered at ACUA's wastewater treatment plant over the years.