UK households may inadvertently cause damage beyond just clogged pipes by thoughtlessly pouring specific substances down their sinks. When it comes to plumbing, three main culprits to steer clear of are fats, oils, and grease (FOG).
Some individuals may opt to discard these substances in the sink after cooking, especially when frying food. Nevertheless, these FOG materials can accumulate in pipes over time, potentially leading to blockages.
However, blocked drains are not the most severe consequence of FOG substances; they could also inflict substantial harm on your entire kitchen and even pose a significant health hazard. This is because the build-up of FOG can trigger a sewer backup.
Advice provided by Northumbrian Water underscores that sewer blockages occur when FOG enters the sewer network through a household’s sink, impacting not just your property but potentially your neighbors’ as well. A sewer backup occurs when the primary sewer line beneath homes is obstructed, causing wastewater to flow back into the kitchen.
If the backup is severe and not addressed promptly, it could result in your kitchen flooding, damaging the floor, lower cupboards, and spreading dangerous waste. It is crucial to note that sewer water contains a high concentration of germs that may pose health risks.
While it is possible to avoid a kitchen catastrophe by refraining from pouring FOG waste down the sink and instead disposing of it safely, using grease traps to capture FOG before it enters the drainage system is a helpful solution. Remember that these traps need regular cleaning.
Additionally, you can collect FOG waste in a separate container from other kitchen waste and dispose of it in the trash, ensuring the container is properly sealed to prevent leaks. Licensed waste collectors specializing in FOG disposal may also be available in your area for direct contact.
It is essential to emphasize that pouring FOG waste down the toilet is generally unsafe as it can lead to blockages and contribute to sewer system problems in your area.