Horseshoe Bay’s sewer  is built using a grinder system.  If the red light on the grinder is flashing, call the city 830-598-8741 immediately, even after hours.

There are somethings you need to be aware of, such as what you can put in  toilet, garbage disposal and the chemical to treat.

Several problems can cause a grinder system to fail. These problems include:

  • Disposal of non-biodegradable materials down the toilet.
  • Feminine hygiene product lodged in the grinder mechanism.
  • Grease or powdered soap scum build up in the reservoir, causing float control failure.
  • Electrical problems including house electrical breakers tripping, fire ants, and component failure.

Preventive measures that will help maintain a long and dependable service are:

  • Ensure that no trash is flushed down the sewer drains (grinder blades jam and pump will not work).
  • Pour grease in a container and put it in the trash instead of pouring it down the drain (grease coagulates in cool water of grinder basins, restricting on / off float switches).
  • Utilize liquid soaps for dish washing and laundry (powder soaps coagulate in cool water of grinder basins restricting on/off float switches).
  • Pour enzymes (free at City Hall) down the drain to promote treatment process within grinder basin.
  • Never disconnect or turn off breaker to grinder pump when leaving town. Toilet or faucet leaks can overflow grinder basins, back up into house drains and cause damage to pumps
  • Be alert to any unusual noises or red light coming from the grinder system and report them to the City as soon as possible, even after hours, at 830-598-8741.

Read more on the city website at http://www.horseshoe-bay-tx.gov/188/Grinder-Pump-Systems.

You can pick up the enzyme solution for free at the city water department.