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FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) is the leading cause of sewer system blockages in the Metro Atlanta area. When FOG builds up, it can clog plumbing and sewer lines, leading to serious issues like sewage overflowing from manholes into streets and rivers, or backing up through floor drains in homes. By preventing these blockages, we protect the environment and help residents avoid costly repairs.
MYTH - Using a garbage disposal will not clog drains
Fact - Garbage disposals conveniently dispose of grease-bearing food particles, but often lead to a higher incidence of sewer clogs, not only from the additional grease but also from the food particles themselves which can become trapped by existing grease in sewer pipes.
MYTH – If I use hot water and dish soap when disposing of grease in my kitchen sink, the drain and pipes won’t become clogged.
Fact - As the grease travels down the pipe, it cools and hardens again which then causes clogs.
Common Sources of FOG
Butter
Cheese
Gravy
Ice Cream
Margarine
Marinades
Mayonnaise
Meats
Pastries
Salad Dressings
Sauces
Cooking Oils
Yogurt
What YOU can do?
1. Do not pour FOG down your drain.
2. Allow FOG to cool and pour into a disposable container to place in the trash.
3. Scrape all FOG off of plates and wipe dry with a paper towel.
4. Use a sink strainer to catch all food particles that may fall in the sink and throw them away.
5. Throw all Fats, Oils, Grease and, food scraps in the trash.
Please remember to dispose of disinfectant wipes, antibacterial wipes, Clorox wipes, and similar items in the trash, not the toilet. Flushing anything other than toilet paper can clog sewer pipes, leading to overflows into our waterways and sewage backups in your home.
Your toilet should never be used as a trash can. The items listed below are examples of things that, when flushed, can clog toilets, leading to backups in your home and damage to our wastewater treatment facilities. This can result in costly cleanups, higher water bills, and raw sewage overflows that harm marine life and create toxic environmental problems.
Under no circumstances should you EVER flush these items:
1. Cleaning wipes, antibacterial wipes
2. Baby wipes and diapers"Flushable" wipes - no wipes of any kind should be flushed
3. Rags and towels, Swiffer clothsCotton swabs
4. SyringesCandy and other food wrappers
5. Clothing labelsCleaning sponges
6. ToysPlastic items of any description
7. Aquarium gravel or kitty litter
8. Rubber items such as latex gloves
9. Cigarette butts
10. Sanitary napkins
11. Hair
12. Underwear
13. Disposable toilet brushes
- Have your system inspected every three years by a qualified professional, or follow the recommendations of your state or local health department.
- Pump your septic tank as needed, typically every three to five years.
- Avoid pouring harsh substances like oils, grease, chemicals, paint, or medications down the drain.
- Dispose of non-degradable items like dental floss, disposable wipes, and cat litter in the trash rather than flushing them.
- Keep cars and heavy vehicles away from the drain field tank.
- Follow the manufacturer's guidelines when using septic tank cleaners and additives.
- Repair leaks and use water-efficient fixtures to prevent overloading the system.
- Maintain plants and vegetation near the system to ensure roots don’t obstruct drains.
- Choose low-suds, biodegradable, and low- or phosphate-free soaps and detergents.
- Prevent system freezing in cold weather by inspecting and insulating vulnerable parts, such as the inspection pipe and soil treatment area.