It may be easy to dump a pan of grease down the drain when you’re in a hurry. After all, it’s a liquid, so it seems to make sense in the moment. But the effects can be detrimental to your entire plumbing system and cost you a lot of money in plumbing repairs. Here’s a closer look at why you should avoid this at all times.

What Happens When You Pour Grease Down the Drain

Everyone knows that grease is a liquid when it’s hot. After that, however, it solidifies into a big glob that may clog your pipes up. By the time it reaches the bottom of the pipes and sewers, it begins to take its solid form. Thinking that running water while you pour it will just move it along is a mistake as well. You’re simply causing a big, greasy, messy buildup in your pipes that could lead to serious plumbing repairs.

Why a Clog Happens

These clogs happen because grease eventually gets broken down into its component parts: fatty acids and glycerol. These acids mix and ultimately bind together with the calcium found in sewers to create a soap-like compound. If you’ve ever heard the term “fatberg,” this is what it means. These big soap masses block sewer lines and can cause backups that are both equally dangerous and unpleasant. Not only will this issue cost you in plumbing repairs, but it can also be damaging to surrounding homes.

What to Do Instead

Instead of pouring grease down the drain, let it solidify then scrape it into the garbage can when it’s not so hot. You can also pour hot grease into a glass or stainless steel container and then eventually empty it into the garbage when it’s full.

 

If you’re in need of plumbing repairs, call the experienced technicians at Bohannon’s Plumbing & General Repairs in Thomasville, NC. Whether you’re experiencing a clogged drain or in need of emergency plumbing services, their plumbers use drain snakes, water-jetting equipment, and other state-of-the-art solutions to fix your plumbing issues. With over 30 years of experience and a 24-hour emergency plumber on call, you can put your trust in them. To learn more about the services they offer, visit them online or call (336) 561-9444 for immediate assistance.