The holiday season often is a time for cooking, baking, and sharing meals with family and friends. But while the kitchen may be busy, the last thing anyone wants is an unexpected plumbing problem that interrupts the celebration. One major holiday culprit is grease, oils, and fats poured down the drain. These liquids may seem harmless when warm, but once cooled they harden and clog pipes, creating costly repairs for both homeowners and the District’s sewer system.
Grease does not dissolve in water. Instead, it sticks to the inside of pipes and builds up over time. Even when combined with hot water or soap, grease eventually cools and solidifies. This can cause sewage backups in your home and expensive blockages in the District’s wastewater system.
When cooking, the following items should never go down the drain:
- Grease and drippings from cooked meats
- Gravy, sauces, and cooking oils
- Butter, margarine, and shortening
- Salad dressings or mayonnaise
- Leftover food scraps
Instead of rinsing pans in the sink, pour cooled grease into a disposable container such as an empty can or jar. Once full, seal the container and place it in the trash. Wipe greasy pots and pans with a paper towel before washing to prevent residue from going down the drain. Food scraps should also go in the trash, not the disposal, to avoid clogging pipes.
Every year, sewer crews across the region spend thousands of hours addressing clogs caused by grease. These problems increase operating costs for the District and can also cause clogs or other expensive plumbing issues in homes. Simple steps in your kitchen can help protect your plumbing, your neighbors, and the community’s sewer system.
Enjoy your holiday meals and gatherings, and remember: always put grease in the trash, not down the drain.