Fat, Oil, and Grease Prevention

Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG) should never go down the drain. When FOG goes down the drain, it builds up over time, restricting the flow of wastewater. If it happens in your home, you pay for it. If it happens in City drains, your whole neighborhood could have drainage problems. City crews must use special pressure washers and vacuums to remove the FOG.

FOG Prevention

Most sewer clogs during the holidays are caused by Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG). Here is a brief list of items that belong in the trash:

Fat

Raw Meat
Meat Trimmings
Poultry Skins
Butter
Lard
Cheeses
Sour Cream

Oil

Cooking Oil
Salad Dressing
Vegetable Oils
Coconut Oil
Olive Oil
Fryer Oil
Margarine

Grease

Bacon Residue
Chicken Broth
Beef Stock
Gravy
Mayonnaise
Fried Drippings
Soups

Frequently Asked Questions

View the Printable FAQs instead.
En su lugar, vea las Preguntas Frecuentes imprimibles.

What is FOG?

FOG stands for Fats, Oils and Grease. It is a byproduct of cooking and includes oils, animal fats and vegetable fats.

What are the most common sources of FOG?

The most common sources of FOG are meats, lard, shortening, sauces, gravy, oil and dairy products.

How does FOG enter the sewer system?

FOG makes its way through our kitchen sinks into the sewer system. When greasy dishes are washed at the sink or grease is poured down the drain, the FOG ends up in the sewer system.

What happens when FOG enters the sewer system?

FOG enters the system in a liquid form. Over time, it hardens to form solid mass that coats the insides of the pipes. The grease accumulates and blocks the pipe, causing sanitary sewer overflows.

Can I use garbage disposal or detergents and hot water to wash FOG down the drain?

No. A garbage disposal will only shred the food to smaller particles. The particles will accumulate down the sewer lines to cause back ups. Detergents and hot water may temporarily keep the FOG in liquid state and push it further down the pipe. Over time, FOG will cool and solidify in the sewer system blocking the pipes and causing backups.

How can I prevent FOG from entering the sewer system?

Never pour FOG down your kitchen sink or toilet. Make sure you dispose of FOG in a proper manner.

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Corpus Christi Water (CCW) is committed to delivering water that is affordable, drought-proof, sustainable, and reliable. Corpus Christi Water also oversees wastewater management services and the Utility Billing Office.

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