The Do’s and Dont’s of Flushing

HCMUD 0712026-06-24T13:11:21-05:00June 24, 2026|

Every household relies on the District’s wastewater system to safely carry wasterwater away from homes and into treatment facilities. What many residents don’t realize is that improper flushing is one of the most common causes of sewer backups, equipment damage, and costly repairs, not just for the District, but for homeowners as well. Understanding what can and cannot go down the toilet helps protect both your plumbing and the community’s wastewater system.

Only three things should ever be flushed: human waste, toilet paper, and water. Everything else belongs in the trash. Even products labeled as “flushable” often do not break down quickly enough to pass through pipes and pumps without causing problems. Items like wipes, paper towels, dental floss, hair, and feminine hygiene products can tangle together and create large blockages that lead to backups in homes or the District’s sewer system.

Medication and chemical disposal also require care. Flushing unused medicine or household chemicals allows these substances to enter into and potentially contaminate the water supply, harming aquatic life and affecting water quality. Instead of flushing, take medications and chemicals to an authorized collection or recycling site that offers a safe disposal program.

By following a few simple rules, you can help prevent costly damages, reduce maintenance expenses for yourself and the District, and help keep HCMUD 71’s wastewater system running efficiently.

Summer Pool Filling Tips: Water Costs, Usage, and Best Timing

HCMUD 0712026-06-17T10:36:59-05:00June 17, 2026|

As temperatures rise in the Katy area, many residents begin preparing swimming pools for summer. Whether filling a new pool, topping off water levels, or refilling after
maintenance, filling or refilling can use a significant amount of water in a short period of time. Understanding how and when to fill a pool can help homeowners avoid
unnecessary water waste and unexpected utility costs.

The amount of water required to fill a swimming pool varies depending on its size and depth. Even a modest residential pool can require thousands, or even tens of thousands, of gallons of water to fill completely. Because of this, residents may notice an increase in their monthly water bill during the summer season, particularly when filling a pool for the first time or refilling it after draining it for maintenance or repairs.

When adding a large amount of water to a pool, HCMUD 71 recommends avoiding peak household water use periods when possible. Early mornings and early evenings are often times of higher overall water demand as households are showering, running appliances, and irrigating landscapes before and after work or school.

Residents should also avoid overfilling pools. Most pools are designed to operate within a specific water level range, and excess water may overflow unnecessarily into surrounding areas or drainage systems. Periodically checking the water level or using auto-shutoff features while filling helps prevent unnecessary runoff and wasted water.

Throughout the summer, pool experience water loss from evaporation, especially during periods of high heat, direct sunlight, and wind. While some evaporation is expected, homeowners who find themselves frequently adding water should have their pools inspected for leaks to prevent water waste and damage to their property.

Automatic pool fill and overflow systems should also be checked periodically to ensure they are functioning properly. A malfunctioning auto-fill device can continuously add water without the homeowner realizing it, potentially causing large volumes of water to flow into the overflow system for extended periods of time. Monitoring water usage through the home’s water meter or available smart meter tools can help homeowners identify unusual usage patterns before they lead to excessive water bills. HCMUD 71 residents can access their smart meter tools, including setting up automated leak alerts, by visiting www.eyeonwater.com/signup.

Swimming pools are a popular part of summer in Southeast Texas, and proper water management helps homeowners enjoy them efficiently and responsibly. By filling pools carefully, monitoring for leaks, and avoiding unnecessary water loss, residents can better manage water usage while keeping their pools ready for the season.