Fat, oil and grease (FOG) are by-products of cooking at home and in businesses.
If you dispose of FOG incorrectly, it can have a huge impact on the environment, your home or business and the drain systems in our region. Most commonly, FOG can cause build-ups and blockages in drains that can cause costly repairs.
How to dispose of FOG in your home
It might seem harmless to pour fat, oil and grease (FOG) down the drain. But after it's had some time to build up, it can cause serious problems for you and your neighbours.
Never pour fat, oil or grease down the drain. When you dispose of FOG properly, you help keep everyone's sewers clear and reduce maintenance and repair fees.
Contain it, don't drain it
- Pour oil and grease into an empty metal container or can. When it cools, throw it in the trash.
- Wipe out greasy pans with a paper towel before washing.
- Use a sink strainer to prevent food bits from going down the drain.
- Extend the life of cooking oil by straining or filtering it.
- Mix FOG with an absorbent material like cat litter or coffee grounds. Seal it in a container and throw it in the trash.
Frequently asked questions: Residential FOG
Why is FOG a problem? |
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When FOG is poured down the drain, it can build up and create blockages in pipes and sewer systems. Blockages can cause backups, costly repairs and even property damage for you and your neighbours. |
Can I pour FOG down the drain? |
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No. FOG should never be poured down the drain. The Sanitary Sewer Utility Bylaw prohibits residents and business owners from disposing FOG through sanitary systems. Those who do not comply could be fined. |
Can I dump FOG into the toilet? |
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No. Wastewater from every toilet, shower, sink, dishwasher or bathtub in your home is connected to the same sewer pipe. Pouring FOG down the toilet can still cause blockages. |
Will hot water and detergent get rid of FOG? |
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No. Hot water and detergent will not clear FOG from pipes and sewer lines. The mixture may clear immediate blockages from under the kitchen sink, but it will have no impact once diluted in the sewer network. The FOG will simply build-up further down the line. |
What happens if my pipes become blocked? |
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Sewer blockages can happen on your property or municipal property. Responsibility for the repair will depend on the location of the blockage. |
What else should not go down my drain? |
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The following materials should not go down the drain or in the toilet:
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Commercial business FOG
If you are in the food service industry, fat, oil and grease (FOG) is an unavoidable part of business. Learn more about the requirements for managing commercial business FOG.