A combination of fat, oil, and grease is arguably the worst culprit in clog formation. Sadly, many homeowners pour these substances down their kitchen drains without realizing the long-term consequences. While they may go down in liquid form, they eventually cool and solidify inside your plumbing, coating the inner walls of your pipes. Make no mistake—fat, oil, and grease do not belong in your drains.
In this article, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Riverside shares some of the effective ways to protect your pipes from fat, oil, and grease damage. When you need professional drain cleaning in Riverside, we are the plumbers you can trust to do a great job.
Never Pour FOG Down the Drain
It all starts with awareness. The most important step is also the simplest: don’t pour fat, oil, or grease down your kitchen sink. This includes bacon grease, cooking oil, butter, lard, and even creamy sauces or salad dressings. Instead, pour them into a disposable container, like an empty coffee can or glass jar, and toss it in the trash once it’s full and cooled. For larger amounts, check if your city offers recycling programs for used cooking oil.
Scrape Your Plates
Even small amounts of grease can accumulate over time. Before rinsing your dishes, take the time to scrape off leftover food scraps, sauces, and greasy residues into the trash or compost bin. Use a paper towel to wipe greasy pans before washing them to limit FOG entering your pipes.
Use a Sink Strainer
A sink strainer is a simple tool that can make a big difference when it comes to drain maintenance. It catches food particles that can cause clogs when combined with grease. Empty it into the trash regularly, especially after washing dishes that may have come into contact with oily foods.
Flush with Hot Water and Dish Soap
If you’ve accidentally poured a bit of grease down the drain, flush it with a combination of hot water and a squirt of grease-cutting dish soap. While this isn’t a perfect solution, it can help loosen minor buildups and keep things flowing until your next cleaning.
Schedule Regular Drain Maintenance
Even if you’re careful, some FOG buildup is bound to occur over time. That’s why it’s a good idea to schedule regular drain cleaning in Riverside with a licensed plumber. Professional techniques like hydro jetting use high-pressure water to blast away stubborn grease and debris.
Regular drain maintenance not only restores your pipes to near-original condition but also prevents costly repairs and improves drainage efficiency. Schedule regular drain maintenance service with a skilled plumber in Riverside and enjoy peace of mind knowing your plumbing system is in top shape.
Educate Your Household
Make sure everyone in your home knows the dangers of pouring grease down the sink. Hang a reminder by the stove or sink if needed. Habits are easier to break when everyone is on the same page.
Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Riverside for All Your Drain Cleaning Needs
Sometimes, you can encounter drain clogs even with preventive measures in place. Mineral deposits, foreign objects, tree roots, and pipe damage can cause clogs and interfere with the smooth flow of wastewater. Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Riverside, we take pride in offering reliable drain cleaning in Riverside and the nearby areas. Our plumbers are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and equipment, including hydro jetters and video inspection cameras, to identify the location of clogs and clear them effectively. Contact us today if you need help with drain cleaning.