What can I do to help prevent FOG damage?

Households and Businesses can help prevent FOG buildup in the sanitary sewer lines and mains.  Here are some tips.

COOL IT. CAN IT. TRASH IT.

  • Do place cooled cooking fats, oils, and grease into a waxed food container such as a milk carton or container with a lid and dispose of it in the garbage.
  • Do scrape grease and foods scraps into a container or trash for disposal from:
    • Cooking surfaces
    • Dishes
    • Pans
    • Pots
    • Utensils
  • Do 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.
  • Do use baskets or strainers in sinks to catch the leftover food scraps. Empty scraps into garbage.
  • Do minimize the use of garbage disposals. Foods containing FOG can get caught in the plumbing and cause sewer backups.
  • Do minimize the use of dish soap when washing dishes. Dish soap emulsifies FOG and enables it to pass into pipes. It will later coagulate in sewer lines.
  • Do 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.
  • Do speak with friends and family about the problem of FOG in the sewer system and how to keep it out.
  • DON’T

    • Don’t put fats, oils, or grease down garbage disposals. 
    • Don’t pour fats, oils or grease down sink drains or into toilets.
    • Don’t use hot water to rinse grease off cookware, utensils, dishes, or surfaces.  Instead wipe out with a paper towel.

Sewer FOG Trash-it 645x284 Courtesy Goldstreet Design Agency Inc.

Photo Courtesy of Goldstreet Design Agency, Inc.

For more information, view the Fats, Oils & Grease page.

Show All Answers

1. What is FOG?
2. How does FOG impact the sewer system?
3. Why shouldn't FOG go down the drain?
4. What can I do to help prevent FOG damage?
5. What should I do if I experience a sewer blockage or overflow?
6. What do I do with the oil used in deep fryers at home?