Summertime Fun
When you think of summer, you might think of hot nights outside by the barbeque, surrounded by family and friends. As your brisket basks in the smoke and sauces, don’t forget to also Fight the FOG: Fats, oils and greases!
Why Fight the FOG
Fats, oils and greases may seem harmless. They slide right down the garbage disposal, out of sight and out of mind. Unfortunately, while it is out of sight, that FOG might soon be well on your mind when you experience a backup in your sink, or worse, further down your sewer line.
There are many rumors about how to safely send FOG down the drain: Pour it down while it’s hot under hot water to keep it moving through the pipes in liquid form is one technique. Or letting it solidify, then scrapping it into the drain under cold water while the garbage disposal runs, supposedly “chopping it up” and sending the chunks to their final resting place at the wastewater treatment center. Unfortunately, neither of these techniques work. Liquified fats quickly cool and resume their solid form, and cold chunks cling to the sides of pipes. Both build up over time, eventually resulting in backups and overflows.
The Results
A “backup” can mean a flood of raw sewage into your home or yard, or further downstream. This exposes you or your family and neighbors to disease-causing organisms. The cleanup process is not only unpleasant, but it is also expensive. When it occurs on your side of the lateral pipe, it is your responsibility to shoulder the cost. When it occurs further downstream, your sewer collection provider has to take on the burden, risking increasing costs for all ratepayers.
How to Fight the FOG
Remembering a few simple tricks can help prevent FOG build-up and sewer backup.
- Trash it.
Scrape food scraps from plates, pans, and utensils directly into the trash, skipping the sink altogether. - Wipe it.
Wipe up residual fats and greases with a paper towel and dispose of them in the trash can. Even these little bits of leftovers can add up to a problem. - Pour it.
Pour your liquid FOG into a container and allow it to cool and harden. A variety of everyday items can be used as grease containers, including opened soup or vegetable cans, baby food, pickle or mayo jars, and empty coffee cans. Put a lid on it and keep it until next time. Throw it in the trash when it is full.
We can all help Fight the FOG and keep our sewers safe this cookout season. Keep fats, oils, and greases in the trash where they belong, and your sewer system off your mind, where it belongs! Learn more at www.metroconnects.org.