Why are fats, oils and grease a problem?
The problem with fats, oils and grease is that they are not particularly compatible with any kind of piping. The fats, oils and greases from cooking oil, butter, meat drippings, shortening and sauces are only partially soluble in water. If disposed of using the drainage system, these substances congeal, coagulate, and stick to the drainage piping, forming tough deposits that grow each time such greasy waste enters the pipes. Whether these deposits form on the homeowner’s piping or the city sanitary sewer lines, the end result is a clogged pipe and usually an expensive repair. These blockages may also be accompanied by foul odors, significant property damage, and environmental harm in some cases.