FOG - Fats, Oils & Grease

FOG logo

When FOG is dumped down the drain, it forms large, thick grease balls that clog pipes. Clogged pipes can result in sewer backups and spills, create environmental problems, and damage property leading to costly repairs. FOG includes items such as cooking oils, salad dressings, sandwich spreads, meat juices, meat fat and other similar products, eventually results in sewer backups that can overflow onto streets and even into the home, damaging properties and the environment. Remember that every household plays an important role in preventing neighborhood sewer blockages.


FOG Information

  1. Fat-Free Sewers (PDF)

DO

  • Pour fats, oils and grease after it has cooled into a container, such as an empty glass jar or coffee can. Once the container is full, secure the lid and place it in the trash.
  • Wipe before washing. For greasy pans, pour the grease into a container and use a paper towel to wipe out the remaining grease in the pan prior to washing.
  • Use sink strainers to catch food items, then empty the strainer into the trash.
  • Seal the oil. Mix liquid vegetable oil with an absorbent material such as kitty litter or coffee grounds in a sealable container before throwing it in the trash.
  • Keep drains clean by pouring 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Wait 10-15 minutes and then rinse with hot water.

DON'T

  • Don’t pour fat, oil or grease down drains or garbage disposals.
  • Don’t use hot water to rinse grease off cookware, utensils, dishes, or surfaces.
  • Don’t forget to protect the sewer lines from the bathroom: the toilet is not a trash can.
clogged pipe image