How to get rid of cooking grease without clogging your pipes

Why it matters

The Orange County Sanitation District says fats, oils and grease washed down the drain build up in the pipes over time and cause clogs, which can lead to sewage spills. Its rule is simple: they belong in the trash. A clog in the pipe from your house to the street is usually the homeowner's to fix; our sewer line guide covers what happens then.

Steps

1. Never pour fat, oil or grease down the sink or the garbage disposal.
2. Pour leftover grease into a can or jar and let it cool.
3. Once it is cool, close the container and put it in the trash.
4. For a small amount, soak it up with paper towels, coffee grounds or cat litter and put that in the trash.
5. Before you wash pots, pans and dishes, scrape them and wipe them dry with a paper towel.

When to call a pro

Call a plumber if a drain stays slow or backs up after you stop sending grease down it. If sewage comes up from a floor drain or the lowest fixture, stop using water and call a plumber.

Safety

Let hot oil cool before you move or pour it. A pan of hot oil that catches fire needs a lid, not water.

Go deeper

• Sewer line problems in Orange County