ANGLIAN Water is starting the second phase of a campaign in Ipswich checking homes for incorrect connections of dishwashers and washing machines to surface water sewers.

ANGLIAN Water is starting the second phase of a campaign in Ipswich checking homes for incorrect connections of dishwashers and washing machines to surface water sewers.

This follows concerns that dirty water pipes from domestic appliances have not been connected correctly to foul water sewers and wastewater is flowing directly through surface water sewers into watercourses and rivers.

Surface water sewers should take rain water and run off from roads, paths, roofs and not water from dishwashers and washing machines. The reason for the concern is that water polluted with contaminants such as detergents can damage wildlife.

In a recent survey of 500 homes 35 were found to have misconnections. All those were visited and given advice on how to rectify the situation. Householders are given a timescale to redirect the pipe work and the EA follow up to ensure this is done.

Collette Nicholls, of Anglian Water, said: “We would like all customers to check their pipes are correctly connected to appliances. The wrong connection can often happen when an extension is added to a property, and can include baths and showers. This foul water should go through to a treatment plant, if it doesn't and it causes pollution, this can be deadly for wildlife.”

Those who are likely to receive a call from Anglian Water Field Staff will receive a letter. The company said all customers should ask for ID before letting anyone inspect pipes.