Why Grease Is University Place’s #1 Drain Enemy
If you’ve ever poured bacon grease, cooking oil, or meat drippings down your kitchen sink, you’re not alone—but you may have unknowingly contributed to one of the most common and costly plumbing issues in University Place: FOG blockages.
Fats, oils, and grease (collectively known as FOG) are notorious for building up in household and city sewer lines. What starts as a quick rinse down the drain can lead to clogged pipes, overflowing sewers, expensive plumbing repairs, and even environmental contamination.
In this article, we’ll explore why grease is such a persistent enemy for drains in University Place, how it impacts your home and the local sewer system, and most importantly—how to prevent it.
🚫 What Happens When You Pour Grease Down the Drain?
When grease is hot and liquid, it seems harmless. But as soon as it cools (which happens quickly in pipes), it solidifies. This sticky residue then clings to the inner walls of your plumbing, slowly accumulating with other materials like food particles, soap scum, and hair.
Over time, this build-up narrows the flow of wastewater. The result? Slow drains, backups, and in severe cases, complete blockages. What makes grease particularly insidious is how difficult it is to remove once it hardens—often requiring professional intervention and, in municipal lines, high-pressure jetting or excavation.
🏘️ Why Grease is a Big Problem in University Place
University Place, like much of Pierce County, has a mix of older and newer plumbing infrastructure. Many homes still rely on aging sewer systems, which are more susceptible to FOG-related issues due to narrower pipes and corroded interiors.
The City of Tacoma’s FOG Program (which also supports University Place) actively monitors and regulates grease disposal from restaurants and commercial kitchens. But even in residential areas, the problem persists. According to the city, FOG is responsible for a significant percentage of sewer backups and overflows, which can lead to:
- Costly clean-up and repair bills
- Property damage
- Health hazards from raw sewage
- Environmental harm to nearby streams and Puget Sound
Learn more from the City of Tacoma FOG Program, which highlights the local impact of grease-related blockages and outlines preventative measures.
💡 The Right Way to Dispose of Grease
Instead of rinsing fats, oils, and grease down the drain, follow these best practices to keep your plumbing safe:
- Cool It, Can It, Trash It:
Let grease cool in the pan, then pour it into a heat-safe container like a metal can or disposable cup. Once solid, toss it in the trash. - Wipe Before Washing:
Use a paper towel to wipe greasy pots, pans, and plates before placing them in the sink or dishwasher. - Use a Grease Container:
Keep a designated grease jar or canister in your kitchen to collect oils for disposal. - Don’t Rely on Garbage Disposals:
Grease may pass through a disposal, but it still enters your plumbing. Disposals do not break down grease—they just mask the problem.
👨🔧 What to Do If You Suspect a Grease Blockage
If your sinks are draining slowly, your kitchen smells funky, or you notice bubbling or gurgling sounds from the pipes, grease buildup might be to blame. Ignoring these signs can lead to sudden and severe blockages, especially during winter months when grease hardens faster.
That’s where professional help makes all the difference.
At Einstein Pros University Place Plumbing Services, our licensed plumbers can inspect your lines with advanced video cameras, clear clogs with safe, non-invasive methods, and offer solutions to prevent future buildup. We’ve served University Place and surrounding communities for years and understand the specific plumbing challenges local homeowners face.
🛠️ Final Thoughts: Keep Grease Out for Good
Grease may seem like a minor issue, but it’s one of the leading causes of home plumbing problems in University Place. With a few smart habits and proper disposal methods, you can protect your pipes, save money on repairs, and help keep our local water systems clean.
Have a stubborn kitchen clog or want to schedule a grease line cleaning?
Trust the local pros.
Visit Einstein Pros University Place to schedule fast, friendly service today.