Why
Grease and Drains Don’ t Mix
A clean, efficient kitchen often comes down to the habits we build every day, and few habits are as important as how we handle cooking grease. While it may be tempting to rinse away leftover oils with hot water and a quick swirl down the drain, experts caution that this common shortcut can create longterm plumbing issues inside your home.
How Grease Behaves in Your Pipes
Grease, fats and oils may appear liquid when warm, but they solidify as they cool. Once inside your drain lines, these substances cling to the inner walls, creating a sticky layer that attracts soap residue, food particles and other debris. Over time, this buildup narrows the pipe and slows water flow, eventually leading to stubborn clogs. Even small daily amounts can accumulate enough to cause backups that require professional cleaning.
Signs of a Grease Buildup Problem
Homeowners often notice early hints that grease is collecting where it shouldn’ t be. Slow draining sinks, recurring blockages and gurgling sounds from the pipes can all signal that grease has begun to harden inside the system. Left unchecked, this can escalate into full drain failures or wastewater coming back up through fixtures.
Better Ways to Dispose of Grease
Instead of rinsing grease down the sink, let it cool and solidify, then scrape it into the trash. For liquid oils, pour them into a sealed container before disposing. Wiping pans with a paper towel before washing can also prevent small amounts from slipping into the drain. Installing a simple sink strainer adds another layer of protection by catching food scraps that might otherwise contribute to buildup.
A Small Habit With a Big Impact
Avoiding grease in the drain is one of the simplest ways to protect your home’ s plumbing. With a few mindful steps in the kitchen, you can prevent clogs, maintain smoother drainage and keep your pipes functioning at their best for years to come.
ExpressRooter Plumbing, www. expressrootertoronto. com