Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG)

Sewer back-ups and overflows are frequently caused by improper materials such as fats, oils and grease (FOG) being placed into the sewer system. Since fats, oils and grease are lighter than water; they tend to accumulate at the top and sides of sewer pipes and can build up until a blockage occurs. They also tend to solidify as they cool inside pipes. If a blockage occurs, the sewer backs up or overflows resulting in property and environmental damage.

What Can You Do?

• Put fats, oils and grease into an empty, heat-safe container and store it in the freezer. Toss the cooled container into the garbage.
• Scrape your food waste into the trash.
• Catch scraps in your sink with a basket or strainer
• Let oil and grease cool on dishes, pans and griddles. Then, wipe them with a paper towel before washing them.
• Use environmentally safe cleaning products to avoid damaging sewer lines.
• Bring your used cooking oil to one of our four convenient recycling stations (see below)

Keeping FOG from going down the drain isn't just about the sewer system, though. It can save you money too! Most sewer back-ups occur between the house and the City's sewer main, where the property owner is responsible for correcting the problem.

For more information about the City of Waco's efforts to reduce FOG, call Wastewater Pre-Treatment at: (254) 299-2401 or email the FOG team here.