Fats, Oils, Grease (FOG)

Fats, oils and grease, known collectively as FOG, represent the most serious enemy of our 
sewer lines.

  • Butter
  • Cooking oil
  • Grease
  • Food scraps
  • Lard
  • Margarine
  • Meat scraps
  • Shortening
FOG guy image

When FOG is dumped down the drain, it forms large, thick grease balls that clog pipes. Clogged pipes can result in sewer backups and spills, create environmental problems, cause traffic tie-ups or even flood homes and businesses. Commercial food-handling facilities contribute greatly to FOG buildup in sewer lines because of the amount of grease used in cooking and other food prep work. Preventing sewer backups from FOG blockages also saves money.

Important! When sewer pipes back up on private property, the homeowner or business owner is responsible for the cleanup.

pipe with fogA pipe clogged with FOG


Can it. Cool it. Throw it away.

  • Can the grease! Keep an empty metal can and pour oil and grease into the can. Allow grease to cool in the container before throwing it in the trash.
  • Wipe before washing. For greasy pans, pour the grease into a container and use a paper towel to wipe out the remaining grease in the pan prior to washing.
  • Seal the oil. Liquid should be limited to no more than one-half gallon. Mix liquid vegetable oil with an absorbent material such as kitty litter or coffee grounds in a sealable container before throwing it in the trash.
  • Keep drains clean by pouring 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Wait 10-15 minutes and then rinse with hot water.

Don’ts

  • Don’t pour fat, oil or grease down drains or garbage disposals.
  • Don’t use hot water to rinse grease off cookware, utensils, dishes or surfaces.

FOG image

👉  Learn more:  Otsego City Code