Report Outages: 256-552-1400
WASTEWATER
Background
The Decatur Utilities (DU) team of wastewater professionals is dedicated to making sure that wastewater collected from the city's residences, businesses, and industries is treated and returned safely to the environment. DU's treatment process includes screening, anaerobic digestion, clarification and settling, and chemical disinfectant. The plant has been consistently recognized as one of the best operated in the State of Alabama by the Alabama Water Pollution Control Association.
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Awards and Recognition
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2017 Best Operated Plant Award* - Alabama Water Pollution Control Association
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> 10 Million Gallons/Day (MGD)
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2015-2017 Three-Year Best Operated Award - Alabama Water Pollution Control Association
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Optimization means DU's WTP goes above and beyond state and federal mandates for quality
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2017 Award of Excellence - Alabama Water Environment Association
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Mechanical Plans > 10 MGD
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* Because the DU WWTP won the Best Operated Award for three straight years, it is ineligible for the award until 2020.
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Important Information
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Slow Drains or other Wastewater Issues
Slow drains or sewage backing up into your tub can be a definite indication that there is a problem with your plumbing or sewer service line. Decatur Utilities can help! DU can determine the location of the problem and help you decide your next course of action.
BEFORE you call a plumber, call DU at 256-552-1400 to report it. We’ll send a service technician from our Wastewater Operations Group out to determine if it’s something on our side that can be fixed OR if it is an issue on your side that will require a plumber. Calling DU first could save you an expensive plumber service call!
And remember, DO NOT flush ANYTHING other than toilet paper - EVEN IF the label says “flushable” or “disposable.” These wipes - and other materials - can clog up both your sewer service line as well as our sanitary sewer collection mains.
Service Line Responsibility​
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Seasonal Sewer Billing
During the summer months, beginning in April and ending with September billing, the waste water portion of your bill will be capped off based on your average usage in the winter months. DU takes into consideration that residential customers are watering flowers and lawns, filling swimming pools, washing automobiles, etc.
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Irrigation Meters
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DU also offers the option of installing a water meter dedicated to lawn irrigation, and it does not have sewer charges. Contact Customer Service at 256-552-1400 Opt. 4.
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