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MetroConnects is focused on keeping its sanitary sewer collection system in good operating condition so that our customers can count on reliable sewer service. MetroConnects closely monitors the condition of our system through proactive maintenance and inspections in an effort to prevent problems from occurring. Some of the types of activities you will see in your community include:
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Line Cleaning
Line Cleaning
Metro’s line cleaning crew is responsible for removing debris, clearing blockages, and cutting roots that are obstructing the collection system. Many of these blockages are from grease build-up that is the result of homes and businesses pouring fats, oils and grease (FOG) down drains. For information on the proper disposal of FOG, visit our “How to Protect Your Sewer System” page.
Smoke Testing
Smoke Testing
Smoke testing is performed to confirm connections to the sanitary sewer system. Smoke testing involves a specially mounted blower that forces air mixed with liquid smoke into a manhole. The smoke generated is non-toxic, has no odor, and is typically foggy white in color. The fire department serving the area is notified when we are smoke testing.
Sanitary Sewer Overflow
Sanitary Sewer Overflow
A Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) is any spill of wastewater into the soil or stream from a manhole or pump station. Metro reports all SSO’s to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. If you see or suspect an SSO, call Metro at 864-277-4442.
Dye-Testing
Dye-Testing
Dye testing is used to confirm connections to the sanitary sewer system. We can determine where a structure is connected to the system by running dye through the plumbing of a building. Dye can be introduced into the sewer system through a sink, bathtub, toilet or a cleanout. Water is also needed to flush the dye through the piping.
SL-RAT
SL-RAT
Metro uses the SL-RAT, to help guide regularly scheduled maintenance. The SL-RAT is a device that uses acoustic technology to detect the presence of obstructions or debris in sewer mains. It is highly portable, and a two-man crew can easily assess a typical sewer segment in five minutes or less.
CCTV
CCTV
Crews use a closed-circuit television camera (CCTV) to view and record defects and maintenance problems from a television monitor inside the TV van. Metro has three CCTV units or vehicles to inspect mainline and lateral pipelines.
Root Control
Root Control
Root control or root poisoning is a maintenance activity necessary for selected pipelines in order to maintain an acceptable level of service and to evaluate a pipeline for future rehabilitation. The work is accomplished by a contractor approved by Renewable Water Resources (ReWa) at an application rate that will not upset wastewater treatment plant operations.
Right-Of-Way Maintenance
Right-Of-Way Maintenance
It is Metro’s goal to keep all off-road rights-of-way clear and accessible for daily and emergency operation and maintenance of our pipelines. Metro provides all routine mowing and brush removal with a standard tractor and bush hog, small walk behind brush cutter and various hand tools (chain saws, weed eaters, etc.).
Repairs
Repairs
Metro uses a yearly emergency and maintenance contract to complete repairs on our system. Our goal is to keep service disruption to a minimum.
Grease Trap Inspection & Enforcement
Grease Trap Inspection & Enforcement
Metro follows Renewable Water Resources (ReWa) grease control strategy. It has been developed to regulate the collection and transportation of fats, oils and grease. Violations to pretreatment regulations may result in enforcement and/or fines.