Thames Water Clears Pollution From Thousands of Wrongly Plumbed Home Appliances

Published on: 5 Sep, 2020
Updated on: 9 Sep, 2020

An example of how a misconnected pipe can drain out into the environment.

Thousands of incorrectly plumbed toilets, washing machines and dishwashers that pollute rivers and streams have been uncovered by Guildford’s water supplier Thames Water.

Badly connected pipes from household appliances can allow wastewater, some containing dangerous chemicals, in to surface water sewers designed to hold rainwater and drain into natural watercourses.

By fixing the connections, Thames Water has stopped 117 million litres of wastewater flowing into the environment every year, the equivalent of 47 Olympic swimming pools.

Over the past five years, the company has identified more than 8,000 wrongly connected appliances at thousands of properties.

Now, more than 1,000 additional inspections are planned across the region, with a focus on the capital, to fix the connections.

Stephen Barry, Thames Water’s environmental protection manager, said: “Household appliances connected to the wrong drainage pipe can have a serious impact on the environment.

“Most have been done entirely by accident but we would urge anyone installing a new appliance or fitting new connections to make sure they’re plumbed in properly. Failing to do so can also lead to extremely expensive repair bills.

“We’re pleased to have found so many of these and helped owners fix them but we’re determined to keep doing more to ensure all wastewater is taken to our sewage works where it can be safely treated.”

A spokesperson from Kingston council in London added: “We are fortunate to be on the banks of the Thames and have the Hogsmill and Beverley Brook rivers flowing through our communities. We want to ensure these places are as clean and unpolluted as possible.”

The most common wrong connection was on kitchen sinks, followed by washing machines and hand-basins. Other appliances included dishwashers, toilets, baths and showers.

Thames Water works with environmental groups, the Environment Agency and local authorities to identify points where pollution is entering waterways.

If pollution is spotted, investigation identifies offending properties. Responsibility for fixing connections lies with the property owner.

For more information about avoiding wrong connections visit: www.thameswater.co.uk/help-and-advice/drains-and-sewers/misconnected-pipes

Share This Post