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Water Utility Battles Pipe Blockages Caused by Wet Wipes and Fats
8 Oct, 2025
Summary
- South West Water cleared over 7,000 avoidable blockages in the past year
- Three-quarters of the blockages were caused by wet wipes and fats
- Water company asks customers to be mindful of what they flush down drains
As of October 8th, 2025, South West Water (SWW) has been actively addressing the growing issue of pipe blockages and fatbergs within its network. Over the past year, the water company has cleared more than 7,000 avoidable blockages, with three-quarters of these caused by the improper disposal of wet wipes and fats.
According to Jenny Eamer, the waste water services operations manager at SWW, these blockages can be a real problem, likening them to something "out of a horror story." Eamer explains that when fats, oils, and greases are mixed with items such as wet wipes, sanitary products, and food waste, they can create stubborn blockages that can be difficult and costly to clear.
To combat this issue, SWW has launched a new campaign urging customers to be more mindful of their disposal habits. The company emphasizes that the choices made at home and work can have a significant impact on the integrity of the water network, and is calling on the public to do their part in preventing these avoidable blockages.
