Protect Your Pipes: Keep Fats, Oils and Grease out of Drains

WOODBRIDGE, VA, Nov. 27, 2024 — As families and friends begin to gather for the holiday season, Prince William Water urges residents and business owners to protect their plumbing and the community’s water infrastructure by properly disposing of fats, oils, and grease (FOG). 

Pouring FOG down the drain is like setting a trap for your plumbing. It may seem harmless, but over time, it can cause severe blockages and overflows, leading to costly repairs and environmental harm. 

“When fats, oils, and grease are poured down kitchen drains, they build up inside sewer pipes, blocking flow and leading to untreated wastewater backups in homes and businesses, or even spilling through manholes,” explained Jonathan Okafor, Deputy Director of Operations and Maintenance. “FOG solidifies and sticks to the inside of pipes, which can lead to clogs that slow or stop the drain from working.” 

To avoid backups and prevent damage to your plumbing or our infrastructure, Prince William Water recommends following the "Cool It, Can It, and Trash It" method:

• Allow grease or cooking oil to cool in the pan.  
• Scrape or pour the FOG into a sealable container like a jar or can with a lid. Once the container of FOG is full, put it in the trash for disposal.  
• Wipe down pots and pans with a paper towel, then throw the paper towel in the trash.  

To learn more helpful tips to protect your pipes from FOG visit Introduction to FOG: Fats, Oils and Grease Program | Prince William Water. 

Enjoy your holiday feasts and keep your pipes clear of FOG (fats, oils, and grease)! 

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Prince William Water has been providing drinking water and water reclamation services for Prince William County since 1983.