How to Clean Leftover Grease and Oil on your Pipes

It’s never a good idea to pour leftover grease and oil down the kitchen sink. Grease may flow down the drain, but once it cools off, it will solidify and trap debris, gunk, coffee grounds, food crumbs, and other residues. Over time it will clog and damage your drainage system.

But you may be pouring oil down the sink unintentionally. For instance, if you’re frying food, it will often result in leftover oil. Here’s how to clean leftover grease and oil on your pipes before a catastrophic blockage occurs:

1. Dissolve grease on pipes with a 50:50 mixture of hot water and white vinegar

After grease or oil is poured down the sink, the oil’s viscosity will coat the pipe walls. To dissolve the fat and remove it from your pipes’ lining, we recommend using a mixture of boiling hot water and white vinegar.

Compared to commercial drain cleaners, this solution is non-toxic but just as effective. It works best on metal pipes, as hot water may soften or melt the joints in plastic pipes.

2. Pour a concoction of white vinegar and baking soda down the problematic drain

Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ cup of white vinegar, producing bubbles and hissing sounds.

Cover the drainage for 10 minutes, then flush down the mixture with hot boiling water.

3. Use a snake for seriously clogged drains

If used properly, drain snakes can remove clogs by ‘snaking’ down into pipes. Then the auger end attaches onto the clog to pull it back out of the drain, clearing obstructions quickly. You can also get to the clog through the U-shaped trap under your sink.

If the problem persists, it might be time to throw in the towel and call a plumber.

Proper disposal of Fats, Oil, and Grease

Kitchen oil must be handled properly to avoid an expensive and troublesome clogging problem.

The best way to dispose of used cooking or vegetable oil is taking it to your local waste recycling facility. If you don’t have the option to do so, let it cool first before pouring it in a sealed metal container. Once the container is full, place it in a plastic bag to prevent leakage, then throw it in the trash.

Don’t put grease or oil down the garbage disposal. It won’t only clog drains, but it will also accumulate and negatively affect the grinding ability of your garbage disposal.

Do you have more complex plumbing issues? Contact Us

If your sink keeps backing up, it’s more likely due to a clogged garbage disposal or a blockage in the main drain. If you’re not sure it’s something you can tackle on your own, calling a professional plumber will ensure the job is done right.

So don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help. We readily provide a wide range of plumbing installation, maintenance, and repair services.

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