Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) that make their way into the wastewater system can cause problems in the sewer system pipes.

Grease in a warm liquid may not appear harmful, but as the liquid cools, the grease or fat congeals onto the surface of the interior of pipes and other surfaces. The buildup will decrease pipe capacity, lead to stoppages and backups, and sometimes even cause a shutdown of wastewater treatment units.

Each year millions of gallons of wastewater are discharged nationally through Sanitary System Overflows (SSO). Wastewater overflow goes into the local environment and surrounding bodies of water, directly impacting local wildlife.

In addition to the environmental cost, there is often a financial one. Issues caused by FOG mean more frequent cleaning and sometimes require piping to be replaced earlier than expected. Sewer backups can be costly to taxpayers as well as the Utility.

It is essential to dispose of fats, oils, grease, and other household waste properly. Customers can take a few simple steps to help prevent sewer backups and protect our infrastructure and the environment. Don't be a pain on your drain!

How you can help:

• NEVER pour fats, oils, or grease down drains or toilets.
• Before washing dishes, scrape food scraps that contain fats, oils, and grease into your garbage or compost.
• ALWAYS pour or scrape cooled fats, oils, and grease into a covered, disposable container and throw it away.
• Soak up the remaining oils and grease with an absorbent material such as a paper towel and throw it into your garbage.
• Commercial establishments are encouraged to contact our F.O.G. Inspector at (321) 952-3499 to learn more and obtain the required forms and applications.

PIPE WITH FOG BUILDUP VS CLEAN SEWER PIPE

Sewer pipe before and after cleaning.