The disposal of fats, oils, and grease, or F.O.G. has become an increasing concern in Markham, as flooding and sewer backups continue to be a major problem in houses and condos. However, you can prevent it by disposing of F.O.G.products properly! They should NOT be poured down any drain, and instead be disposed of in your green bin/organics.
When F.O.G. products are poured down the drain, they harden and accumulate, which can clog pipes and block the flow of dirty water leaving your home. This means the waste water has nowhere to go but back into your house or condo. The resulting sewer back-ups can cost thousands of dollars to repair damage to your personal property, and may increase insurance rates and result in loss of coverage.
Properly disposing of F.O.G. is a community responsibility, as pipe misuse can even have consequences on neighbouring houses and units as well. Repair costs can be expensive, and while the city covers issues with city property, damage to private property is the owner’s responsibility.
F.O.G. products are anything that contains fats (such as saturated animal fats), oils (such as unsaturated plant fats), and grease.
Common examples of F.O.G. include:
F.O.G. belongs in the green bin, and should never be poured down the drain. Even when using hot water and soap, F.O.G. will still harden and clog in your cold pipes.
This means:
Make sure to recycle any empty containers!
All items listed below are Not True!
Dos |
Dont's |
Absorb small amounts of fats, oils and grease with a paper towel and place it in your green bin |
Pour F.O.G. down any drain in your home including sinks and toilets |
Wipe and scrape F.O.G. off dirty dishes, pots, and pans before you wash them |
Pour harmful chemicals or degreasers down the drain to dissolve fats, oils, and grease |
Empty expired or unwanted bottled food products (For example: salad dressing, ketchup, mayonnaise, sauces, etc.) into the green bin, then recycle empty glass or plastic bottles. |
Pour fats, oils and grease down the drain while running hot water – it will still solidify in your pipes, causing a blockage. |