It is so easy to pour hot and oily grease down the drain when cleaning up the kitchen. Once it’s gone, we feel like there’s nothing to worry about – not giving our actions a second thought. However, our drains take on a lot as we pour anything and everything down into the pipes. Choosing the “simple solution” in the moment to get rid of the grease can (and will) backfire, hurting our drains and causing extreme damage in the long run. Read on to learn why you should never pour grease down the drain and what to do if you already have.
Drain Danger
It may seem like grease flows right down the drain and everything is all cleaned up! However, once the grease cools, it solidifies, which is very bad news for your pipes. The solidified grease can become a block for other stuff coming down the drain. Over time, this blockage can accumulate and slow the draining of water from your sink, causing the pipes to clog. Even worse, this can cause sewer backups, contamination of your sewer system, and flooding – all problems that are expensive to clean and repair.
Sewer System Damage
If you get lucky and the grease doesn’t solidify in your pipes, it will instead flow into the sewers which is actually worse in the big picture. The sewers have to endure oil and grease from all the homes, restaurants, and businesses in the area. Eventually, the grease and fatty substances combine, which can cause fatbergs. Fatbergs are made up of non-biodegradable solids and waste. These are very damaging to a sewer system and can affect the whole city’s system, causing detrimental damage.
Already Poured Grease Down the Drain?
There are a few actions you can take to minimize the damage that may have been done:
- Pour boiling water down the drain. At the same time, run the tap water as hot as possible and shoot dish soap down the drain. The grease should re-liquefy and hopefully flow through your pipes.
- This may not get rid of the grease completely, and you may need to call a plumber to solve the issue.
- Next time, let the grease cool and harden. Scrape it from the pan/pot and into a compost bin.
Remembering these tips for the health of your drain and keeping your sewer system healthy can save you future troubles. If you’re worried about the current health of your pipes or sewer, contact Best Plumbing for an inspection. Our 24/7 emergency plumbers are available and ready to help!
