Oil blocks pipes primarily by solidifying and accumulating within the plumbing system, gradually restricting and eventually halting the flow of water.
When fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are poured down drains, they are typically warm and liquid. However, as they enter the cooler environment of sewer pipes, they begin to cool and solidify. This hardening process causes the FOG to stick to the interior surfaces of the pipes.
The Mechanism of Blockage
The provided reference clearly states: "When fats, oils, and grease (FOG) enter the sewer it begins to cool and harden within the pipes. This builds up over time and can cause a sewer blockage, which can lead to a flood in, or around your home."
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Cooling and Hardening: As warm FOG travels through the pipe, it encounters cooler temperatures. This temperature drop causes the liquid FOG to congeal and solidify, transforming it into a sticky, waxy substance.
- Adhesion and Buildup: This hardened FOG adheres to the internal walls of the pipes. Over time, successive deposits of FOG, along with other debris like food particles, hair, and soap scum, attach to these initial layers.
- Progressive Narrowing: This continuous buildup reduces the pipe's internal diameter, much like cholesterol accumulating in arteries. As the passage narrows, water flow becomes increasingly restricted.
- Complete Blockage: Eventually, the accumulation can become so substantial that it completely obstructs the pipe, preventing any water from passing through.
Common Sources of FOG
Various household and commercial activities contribute to FOG entering drainage systems. Understanding these sources is crucial for prevention.
| Type of FOG | Common Sources |
|---|---|
| Fats | Meat drippings, butter, margarine, lard, dairy products |
| Oils | Cooking oils (vegetable, olive, canola), salad dressings, mayonnaise, shortening |
| Grease | Bacon grease, rendered fats from roasting meats, pan drippings |
Consequences of Blocked Pipes
A blockage caused by FOG buildup can lead to several severe issues:
- Sewer Backups: The most common consequence is wastewater backing up into sinks, toilets, showers, or floor drains inside or around your home.
- Flooding: Severe blockages can cause significant flooding, leading to property damage, unpleasant odors, and potential health hazards due to exposure to raw sewage.
- Pipe Damage: Persistent pressure from blockages can stress pipes, leading to cracks, leaks, or even burst pipes, requiring costly repairs.
- Environmental Impact: Sewer overflows can contaminate local water bodies, harming aquatic life and ecosystems.
Preventing FOG Blockages
Preventing FOG from entering your pipes is the most effective way to avoid costly and inconvenient blockages.
- Scrape Plates and Pans: Before washing, scrape food scraps and grease into the trash or a compost bin.
- Collect and Dispose of FOG:
- Pour cooled FOG (like bacon grease) into an old coffee can, milk carton, or sealed container.
- Once full and solidified, dispose of the container in the regular trash.
- Never pour FOG down the drain, even if followed by hot water or soap, as it will eventually cool and harden.
- Use Drain Screens: Install screens over sink drains to catch food particles and other debris before they can enter the pipes.
- Minimize Use of Garbage Disposals: While garbage disposals grind food, they don't prevent FOG from entering the system. Scrape food into the trash instead.
- Wipe Down Greasy Utensils: Use a paper towel to wipe excess grease from pots, pans, and utensils before washing them.
By understanding how oil transforms and accumulates in pipes and by implementing simple preventative measures, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of FOG-related plumbing blockages and the associated damage.
