Everyday habits, like putting grease down the drain, can have major, expensive consequences for plumbing systems. Grease and oils harden over time. They can create major obstructions that slow drainage, stink and eventually choke the sewage system.

Why Grease Solidifies in Pipes

Despite appearances, heated grease is very dangerous to pour down a drain. The hot grease coats the interior of pipes in its solidified state when it cools. Butter, lard and cooking oils are just a few examples of the many kinds of oils and fats that go through this process. The grease will harden regardless of the amount of hot water flowing through the pipes. As layers of solidified grease build up in the pipes, the diameter shrinks and the chances of blockages rise.

Slow Drainage

When grease builds up in pipes, poor drainage is one of the first symptoms. This happens when a buildup of hardened grease blocks a section of the pipe, reducing the available passageway for water flow. In kitchen sinks in particular, the impact is more pronounced since food debris and grease tend to clump together and make clogs worse. Instead of resorting to harsh chemical drain cleaners—which can damage your pipes and often fail to provide a long-term solution—consider safer and more effective options. Regularly cleaning your drains, using strainers to catch debris, and consulting a professional plumber when needed are the best ways to address slow drainage and prevent recurring clogs.

Increased Pressure

The internal pressure inside your plumbing system increases when you have grease clogs. This happens because the accumulation makes it harder for water to flow freely through the pipes. Over time, the increased pressure on the pipes can cause damage, particularly in older systems. Severe instances of pressure building may cause pipes to rupture or leak. Problems like this translate into water damage and costly repairs. High pressure and strain on plumbing fittings and joints shorten the lifespan of the plumbing system too.

Attracts Other Debris

Hair, leftover food, soap scum and grime stick to the grease and quickly exacerbate the blockage. The debris becomes increasingly difficult and time-consuming to remove from the drain as it sticks to the oily buildup. Severe blockages, resulting in backflow and requiring expert intervention, are more likely to occur as a result of this buildup.

Foul Odors

Grease, when left to rot in your plumbing system, will cause unpleasant odors to emanate. This is especially true for grease left in the sinks and drains of your kitchen. A strong, off-putting stench may permeate the whole house as germs, trapped food particles and deteriorating grease all work together. Many homeowners report a rancid or musty odor when they have grease clogs. The stench will remain until a professional removes the blockage. Ordinary cleaning solutions and deodorizers seldom get to the source of the problem.

Corrosion Risk

Grease accumulation gradually corrodes pipes, reducing their lifetime and increasing the chance of expensive repairs. You might even have to get a complete pipe replacement if the problem gets bad enough. As time passes, the fatty acids and other waste items released by grease erode the pipes. Because corrosion reduces the pipe material's strength, it increases the likelihood of leaks, cracks, and other damage. This is especially worrisome for older plumbing systems since they're already more likely to experience rust.

Root Intrusion

Root incursion, in which plant and tree roots infiltrate pipelines in quest of water, is a common plumbing problem. Grease clogs contribute to this problem because the buildup in pipes causes water pressure to rise. This, in turn, causes small cracks or leaks that tree roots love to exploit. When roots get inside a pipe, they continue to grow and extend, making the obstruction worse and eventually causing major damage. Sewer systems are especially vulnerable to root penetration.

Clogged Sewer Lines

Clogged sewage pipes caused by grease accumulation are a major source of other issues. It can cause disruptions like sewage backing up into sinks, tubs and toilets. In addition to the obvious health hazards, a blocked sewage line can ruin your home's flooring and walls with water. Restoring a blocked sewage system is more challenging than unclogging individual pipes. Still, both repairs need specialized equipment and expertise.

How to Recognize Grease-Related Blockages

Pinpointing grease blockages in their early stages is key to maintaining a comfortable and healthy home. Slow drainage, recurrent blockages, unpleasant smells around the drains and gurgling sounds are common symptoms. Exercise caution if using the kitchen sink causes water to back up into unexpected places, like the bathtub or shower. Before the clog becomes worse, it's wise to call a professional plumber who can inspect the pipe and provide advice if you see any of these symptoms.

Can Hydrojetting Help With Clogged Drains and Sewer Lines?

When it comes to removing clogs caused by grease, hydrojetting is the way to go. This method employs high-pressure water to blast away grime, dirt and other impediments. It provides a thorough cleaning that helps prevent future buildup without damaging the pipes. Unlike chemical cleaners, it's safe for most plumbing systems. Plus, it works better than snaking to restore system functionality after large obstructions or grease issues.

Other Types of Maintenance for Preventing Clogs

Aside from not pouring grease down the drain, other maintenance activities can help eliminate blockages. Sink and shower screens will prevent dirt from entering the plumbing system. Professionals can prolong the life of your pipes by detecting buildup and rust early on if you schedule regular inspections. An expert may recommend using certain enzyme-based cleansers to keep heavily used areas free of buildup.

How to Properly Dispose of Grease

Disposing of grease the right way will do much more than keep your home's plumbing in good condition. It helps the environment by preventing water contamination and reducing waste in landfills. The best way to dispose of grease is to put the grease in a heat-resistant container and let it cool. After the grease hardens, throw it away. Reusing or composting cooking oil is an option for some. This involves straining and filtering the oil. In doing so, you can remove the food particles and reuse the oil for other meals. The grease recycling services offered by some neighborhood recycling facilities or garbage collection programs are another environmentally preferable option. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® offers hydrojetting and other types of drain cleaning for grease clogs. We also specialize in water leak detection, repiping and water treatment solutions. Our number one priority is to make your home healthier, safer and more comfortable. Call us today to schedule drain cleaning for your home in Beachwood, NJ.