What is FOG?

FOG stands for fats, oils and grease that are disposed of in the drain. These products would be from cooking oils, butter, margarine, lard, shortening, food or meat scraps from your residence or from commercial kitchens like restaurants. Some other common sources of FOG come from improperly disposed of fats, oils and grease from bars and grills, grocery stores, schools, care facilities, automotive service shops, apartments and homes. FOG removal requires more time, energy and resources to manage and eliminate than other, more organic wastes in our wastewater treatment plants.  FOG is also a primary source of sewer odors, whether inside a building or released from a sewer line in the street. 

When these FOG products make their way into our drains, they float on the top of the water and cling to sewer line surfaces.  As water flows through our sewer system, so does FOG and can build up and form large, thick grease balls that clog sewage pipes which result in sewer backups into homes and commercial establishments. When the backup occurs on private property, the homeowner or business owner is responsible for the cleanup, which can be costly. 

(Picture of what FOG looks like in sewer line.)

Can it. Cool it. Throw it away properly, not down the sink!

Homeowners also can do their part by following these simple steps. When handling grease from cooking, pour the grease into a can or jar.  Let it cool and solidify, then throw it away. When handling liquid vegetable oil, mix it with an absorbent material such as kitty litter or coffee grounds in a sealable container before throwing it out. Use paper towel to wipe out remaining grease in pans prior to washing. Keep drains clear by pouring 1/2 cup baking soda down your drain followed by 1/2 cup white vinegar. Wait 10-15 minutes then run the hot water for another two minutes.