As the aroma of Thanksgiving feasts fills homes and families gather, it’s not just the kitchens bustling with activity but also the unseen network of sewers and wastewater systems facing their own seasonal surge.
With Thanksgiving, there is a lesser-known aftermath that unfolds silently in the background — a phenomenon humorously coined as “Brown Friday.” While Black Friday summons crowds to stores, this day brings a surge of its own: an extra strain on sewer systems and wastewater facilities, where the remnants of holiday indulgence create an unexpected challenge for plumbers and city departments alike.
Longmont Water manages over 300 miles of sewer pipe, and the holiday season, especially Thanksgiving, marks a notable shift in their operations. According to their team, Thanksgiving brings not just cheer but also an influx of fat, oils and grease, FOG, into the city’s sewer system.
“When households are brimming with gatherings and meals, FOG enters our sewers as dishes are washed or food is disposed of through garbage disposals,” a team from Longmont Water said.
The impact on wastewater flow post-Thanksgiving is noticeable. On average, the wastewater treatment plant manages around seven million gallons per day, with a potential increase of five to ten percent during Thanksgiving. The day after Thanksgiving historically records the highest load of the year, with FOG accumulation peaking at about 7,000 lbs, double the usual daily intake.
“Proper disposal of FOG is crucial. Wiping food and sauces into the garbage before washing dishes, and pouring fry pan grease into sealed containers for disposal can make a significant difference,” Longmont Water said.
Longmont Water emphasized that FOG tends to cling to pipes and equipment, causing clogs and mechanical strain, especially as the material accumulates. Drawing parallels to household drain clogs, they emphasize the risk of flow backups, likening the impact at the wastewater treatment plant to a large-scale version of a clogged sink.
“The first step in the wastewater treatment process is to screen out large debris,” Longmont Water said. “FOG accumulation can clog these screens, hindering water flow to subsequent processes.”
Since the installation of upgraded influent screens in 2014, they've witnessed a significant improvement in managing FOG throughout the year, especially during high-load events like Thanksgiving. These enhancements have played a crucial role in preventing FOG-related issues from escalating.
“Technology advancements have made dealing with FOG issues more manageable, and the facility is equipped with alarm monitoring to promptly address any issues,” Longmont Water said.
Furthermore, Longmont actively engages residents through initiatives like providing Fat Trappers and encouraging the recycling of used cooking oil to minimize the impact on the sewer system. They also stress that responsible actions at the household level can significantly ease the burden on the department during the holidays.
Reflecting on their experiences, Longmont Water acknowledged that while there haven’t been specific incidents, the importance of timely maintenance and vigilance cannot be overstated.
“We check equipment for proper operation and have staff available for emergencies,” Longmont Water said.
As for community involvement, the team emphasizes a collective effort to keep FOG out of sewers, benefitting both the city’s infrastructure and individual households.
“FOG staying out of sewers is a win for everyone,” Longmont Water said.
While “Brown Friday” brings its challenges, Longmont Water stands ready, ensuring smooth operations and encouraging responsible practices from residents. With a blend of preparedness, community engagement, and a keen eye on FOG, we can navigate the post-Thanksgiving surge, ensuring the city continues to flow smoothly.
