The kitchen is the place that satisfies our bellies with delicious meals therefore, it is our responsibility to keep the space clean. Keeping the kitchen spotless from the outside can be an easy task but have you ever thought about cleaning the sink drain? Oftentimes the drain is neglected in the day-to-day cleaning world, and over time grease accumulates causing massive blockages. We are all guilty of pouring grease down the drain. In the plumbing world, it is considered to be one of the cardinal sins. So, here are the top three reasons why you should never pour grease down the drain:
1. Damaging the Drainage System
The drain seems to be a simple system from the outside; however, it is actually a complex system that involves valves and pipes to protect against water damage. Grease is one of the biggest enemies to the drainage system, mainly due to its hydrophobic (repels water) and oleophilic properties. When grease is poured down the drain, it accumulates on the edges and walls of the pipe and forms a massive blockade. This will eventually block the drainage system and cause severe sewer backups. Oftentimes, sewer backups lead to flooding which will cause damage to your property or neighbouring properties. Next time you are thinking of pouring grease down the drain, remind yourself of the expensive bill that will come knocking on your door due to the damaged drainage system.
2. Damaging the Sewer System
Like previously mentioned, the sewer system is an integral part of the drainage system. Both systems are intertwined, therefore, damaging one system can damage the other. Oil and fats going down your drains will eventually end up clogging your sewer lines. Clogged sewer lines can oftentimes be damaged and will need costly repairs. When you pour grease down your sink, it is merely the beginning of its journey. The oil and other fats will go down your pipes and meet with other wastewater in the sewers. The fatty acids get broken down into various components and these components bind with calcium found in the sewers. The binding of the components creates a substance called “soap” and no, it is not the kind of soap you would want to wash with. When the sewer levels rise, these “soap” substance latches onto the ceiling of the pipes and create something called “fatbergs”. These “fatbergs” can oftentimes become the size of a bus. So, think twice before you pour oil down your drain because the literal price you will have to pay in the future can be hefty.
3. Bad Odour
Pouring grease down the drain can seem harmless at the beginning however, underneath your piping, there is a cluster of fats and oils built up. Oftentimes, the built-up grease can start giving off horrendous odours which can spread throughout your house due to the connectivity of the pipes. No matter how many scented candles you light, the odour will not leave your house until you clear your drainage system. So, before you get to this point, dispose of the greases appropriately and avoid blockage.
How to dispose of grease properly?
While cooking, if you made a lot of oil and fats, check with your municipality to recycle fat and oils because some cities turn grease into useful biofuel. Another method is to solidify the grease in a jar and then throw the jar out in the trash can. Try to get rid of the grease into the jar as much as possible, wipe it down with a paper towel to ensure zero amounts of grease goes down your drain.
If you do accidentally get some grease down your drain, quickly wash it down with some boiling water, vinegar, and baking soda. This will allow the grease to be pushed out of your pipes, but it can still clog up the sewer system.
What to do if it is too late?
If you have already poured gallons of oil down your drain, do not panic, CJ Drain & Plumbing will be happy to assist you with clearing your drain and sewer system. Call now to book your appointment with one of our trusted plumbers and they will assist you quickly. Leave your plumbing stress to us.
