Why You Should Never Pour Grease Down the Drain

Pouring grease down the drain might seem like an easy solution for disposing of cooking oils and fats, but it can lead to significant plumbing issues and environmental damage. Grease, along with other fats and oils, can solidify and accumulate inside your pipes, leading to stubborn blockages that are difficult and costly to remove. Beyond your home, grease can cause blockages in the municipal sewer system, leading to sewer backups and overflows that can contaminate local waterways and harm wildlife. Understanding the impact of grease disposal and adopting proper disposal methods can help prevent these issues and protect both your plumbing system and the environment.

The Dangers of Pouring Grease Down the Drain

1. Clogged Pipes: Grease solidifies as it cools, causing it to stick to the sides of your pipes. Over time, this buildup can lead to significant blockages. According to the EPA, fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are a leading cause of sewer blockages.
2. Sewer Backups: When grease accumulates in the sewer lines, it can cause backups that affect entire neighborhoods. The USDA notes that grease blockages are a common cause of sanitary sewer overflows, which can release untreated sewage into homes and the environment.
3. Environmental Impact: Grease that reaches the sewer system can eventually make its way to water bodies, harming wildlife and ecosystems. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states that grease can form a layer on water surfaces, blocking oxygen and sunlight essential for aquatic life.
4. Expensive Repairs: Dealing with clogged pipes and sewer backups can be costly. Homeowners may face expensive repairs and clean-up costs. The average cost to clear a household drain can range from $100 to $500, but severe blockages in the main sewer line can cost thousands.

What to Do Instead

1. Dispose of Grease Properly: Pour grease into a container and let it solidify. Once solid, you can dispose of it in the trash. You can use metal cans, which can be sealed and thrown away safely.
2. Wipe Before Washing: Before washing greasy pots and pans, wipe them with a paper towel to remove as much grease as possible. This reduces the amount of grease that goes down the drain.
3. Use Strainers: Place strainers in your sink drains to catch food particles and other solids. This can help prevent debris from contributing to blockages in your plumbing.
4. Recycling: Some areas offer grease recycling programs where you can drop off used cooking oil and grease. This grease can be converted into biodiesel, a renewable energy source.

Local Impact in Ashburn, GA

For residents of Ashburn, GA, keeping grease out of your drains is essential to maintaining a healthy plumbing system and protecting the local environment. The Ashburn Public Works Department recommends that residents avoid disposing of grease down the drain and instead use the methods mentioned above. By following these practices, you can help prevent plumbing issues in your home and reduce the risk of sewer backups in the community.

Plumbing Services Offered by Sizemore Plumbing in Ashburn, GA

FAQs – Why You Should Never Pour Grease Down the Drain

1. What happens when you pour grease down the drain?

When grease cools, it solidifies and adheres to the inside of pipes, causing blockages. Over time, this buildup can lead to severe clogs, restricting water flow and potentially causing backups in your plumbing system.

2. Why is grease bad for sewer systems?

Grease that enters the sewer system can cause blockages, leading to sewer overflows. These overflows can release untreated sewage into homes, streets, and local waterways, posing health risks and environmental damage.

3. How can pouring grease down the drain affect the environment?

Grease that makes its way to local water bodies can harm aquatic life. It forms a layer on the water surface, blocking oxygen and sunlight essential for fish and other marine organisms.

4. What are the signs that grease is clogging my pipes?

Signs include slow draining sinks, frequent backups, gurgling noises from drains, and foul odors coming from your plumbing fixtures.

5. What should I do with grease instead of pouring it down the drain?

Pour grease into a container and let it solidify before disposing of it in the trash. You can also use a paper towel to wipe excess grease from pans before washing them.

6. Are there any products that can help break down grease in pipes?

While some products claim to break down grease, they often provide only a temporary solution and can cause other issues. It’s best to avoid pouring grease down the drain and use proper disposal methods.

7. Can grease cause problems in the winter?

Yes, in colder temperatures, grease solidifies more quickly, making it even more likely to cause clogs and backups in your plumbing system.

8. How can I prevent grease clogs in my kitchen sink?

Use sink strainers to catch food particles, avoid pouring grease down the drain, and regularly clean your drains with hot water and a small amount of dish soap to help break down any residual grease.

9. What should I do if I already have a grease clog?

If you suspect a grease clog, contact a professional plumber to safely remove the blockage. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can cause more harm than good to your pipes.

10. How does Sizemore Plumbing handle grease-related plumbing issues?

Sizemore Plumbing uses advanced techniques like hydro jetting and video camera inspections to effectively remove grease clogs and ensure your plumbing system is functioning properly. Contact us at +1 (229) 757-7231 for expert assistance.

Conclusion

Avoiding the disposal of grease down the drain is crucial for maintaining a functional plumbing system and protecting the environment. By adopting proper grease disposal methods, you can prevent clogs, reduce repair costs, and contribute to a cleaner, safer Ashburn, GA.

Contact Sizemore Plumbing for more tips on maintaining your plumbing system and addressing any plumbing concerns you may have.

Phone: +1 (229) 757-7231
Service Area: Ashburn, GA, and surrounding areas