Don’t dispose of grease down your drains! Improper disposal of grease can cause major problems in the property owner’s sewer lines, as well as in the District sewer lines. Large amounts of grease cause system interference and clogging of pumping equipment. Raw sewage in the pipes will attach to fats, oils and grease, creating globs that clog sewer lines. These globs of fat and waste are difficult to disinfect at the treatment plant and can allow disease-causing pathogens to enter streams and rivers.
Most people don’t realize the problems they are causing for themselves and the District when they pour fats, oils and grease down the drain.
Follow these simple rules to avoid sewer back-up problems, costly, labor-intensive cleaning and repairs and environmental damage:
- Never pour grease down the drain. Even if you run hot water down the line, the grease cools quickly and solidifies as it moves through the sewer line. Once it cools and solidifies, it catches on roots and rough spots in the pipes, blocking the flow of sewage. This can result in back-ups. Hot water will not solve the problem!
- Pour grease into a metal container, allow it to cool and place it in the garbage. A lid is required on a container holding liquid grease. You can freeze it for easier disposal.
- You can pour cooled grease into a plastic bag.
- Scrape grease and food from dishes and pans prior to washing. This type of waste can be placed in your trash.
- Use a basket or strainer in the sink to catch greasy food scraps.
- Restaurants, grocery stores, and delis are required to have a grease trap or grease interceptor and have it regularly pumped and cleaned.
- Please do not flush wipes or other disposable cleaning cloths or feminine hygiene products (even if they say “Flushable”)