Fats, Oils, and Grease

FOG stands for Fats, Oils and Grease, all of which can severely damage your sanitary sewer system. FOG includes animal and vegetable fats, as well as oils used to cook and prepare food. When poured down the drain, FOG can cause problems in sanitary sewer pipes and sewer laterals. Grease buildup in pipes can cause major damage to pipes and lead to sewage back-ups in your business

Most sewer systems experience occasional SSOs. Some SSO causes are:

• Inappropriate materials placed into sewers, such as fats, oils and grease (FOG) and some household products such as baby and facial wipes, sanitary pads and tampons. All of these can create blockages.
• Tree roots and/or excessive stormwater or groundwater entering sewer lines through defects or cracks.
• Inappropriate connections such as sump pumps, roof gutters and downspouts, foundation drains and area drains.
• Power loss.
• Equipment failures and breaks.
• Intentional acts of vandalism.
• Heavy rainfall and natural disasters. 

To prevent clogs and SSOs, never pour fats, oils, or grease (FOG) down drains. Dispose of them in sealed containers. Despite being labeled "flushable," wipes can cause clogs and should not be flushed. Ensure storm water connections are correct and report suspected issues. Keep sewer cleanout caps secured for line access. 

Prince William Water has invested in sewer improvements to prevent SSOs, including cleaning and maintaining the system:

• Rehabilitating and replacing broken or leaking lines to reduce storm water and groundwater infiltration into the sanitary sewer.  
• Upgrading or expanding sewer lines and pump stations.  
• Increasing sewage treatment capacity and improving plant dependability.  
• Removing fat, oil and grease (FOG) buildup from sewer systems.  
• Educating the public on how household goods like FOG and wipes can block sewer pipes.