As the holiday season approaches, the Board of Directors for Willow Point Municipal Utility District of Fort Bend and Waller Counties (“Willow Point MUD”) would like to remind residents about an important issue that can negatively impact our sewer systems: F.O.G. – fat, oil, and grease. While we all enjoy festive feasts and seasonal cooking, improper disposal of these substances can lead to serious and costly plumbing problems for our community.
What is F.O.G.?
Fat: Examples include peanut butter, shortening. meat trimmings, uncooked poultry skin, dairy such as milk, sour cream, and ice cream. All fats are solid at room temperature.
Oil: Includes vegetable oils, salad dressings, and cooking oils, which are typically liquid at room temperature.
Grease: Examples include gravy, mayonnaise, melted meat fat (such as bacon grease), and boiled poultry skin. These substances are usually liquid when hot but solidify once cooled.
How does F.O.G. affect my pipes?
When F.O.G. enters your drains, it accumulates over time, causing blockages that restrict the flow of wastewater from your home. This can lead to sewer pipes backing up, resulting in untreated sewage flowing into your home, business, and even the environment. If sewage does enter the environment, it leads to contaminated waterways, harming fish, wildlife, and human health. Raw sewage carries a variety of bacteria that are dangerous to people and ecosystems.
How to dispose of F.O.G. properly:
- Cool It Down: Allow fat, oil, or grease to cool in the pan.
- Small Amounts: Scrape small amounts into the trash and use paper towels to wipe out any remaining grease.
- Wash Properly: Clean pots and pans in the sink as usual, but only after removing excess grease.
- Large Amounts: Pour large quantities into a sealable can or bottle, and dispose of it at a local recycling center.
- Use Sink Strainers: Place strainers in your sink to catch food scraps and other solids.
- Absorb and Dry: Use products like Oil-Dri Absorbent Clay® or cat litter to capture and dry out F.O.G., making it safe to dispose of in the trash.
- Remember: Hot water and soap do not eliminate F.O.G. It will eventually reform in your pipes, causing clogs.
Thanksgiving and Christmas are the two times of year when F.O.G. clogs pose the greatest challenges for Districts, largely due to the heavy cooking and frying turkeys that take place. As we gather with friends and family to celebrate the season, let’s work together to keep our plumbing systems healthy and functional. By following these simple tips and spreading awareness about F.O.G., we can help prevent costly repairs, safeguard our environment, and protect vital infrastructure.
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