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When people pour oil and grease down kitchen drains, they accumulate inside sewer pipes and prevent a clear flow of the wastewater. Unrestricted wastewater flows from homes and commercial businesses to a sewer main. Sewer mains then flow into larger pipes until they reach the treatment plant where the water is treated for reuse. When food byproducts gunk up the pipes and restrict the flow, they can lead to untreated wastewater backing up into homes and businesses. Not only is this more costly to clean up, but exposure to untreated wastewater is a public-health hazard. Even septic tanks face challenges with oil and grease in wastewater. They cause malfunctions in the tank itself, which leads to more frequent tank pump-outs and other expenses to maintain the equipment. Food establishments of all kinds spend thousands of dollars each year for plumbing emergencies related to septic tanks overflowing, and the primary culprit is usually blockages from oil and grease in wastewater. Even if it is not on a septic tank, food establishments could face hefty fines and surcharges for blocking sewers or exceeding specified discharge limits. Whether connected to a sewer system or septic tank, the costs associated with food byproducts in wastewater can be significant. On a broader scale, communities spend billions of dollars each year to repair or replace sewer pipes and pump stations. Not only are oil and grease an issue, but food particles are part of the problem, as well. Rotting food trapped in the pipes form hydrogen sulfide, which creates sulfuric acid when combined with water. The acid eats away at the pipes, making repairs necessary. Because of this, excessive food particles, oil, and grease in wastewater can cause local rates to rise. It is in the best interest of the community at large to keep these byproducts out of the sewer system. Individuals can prevent byproducts from ending up in the sewer by following a few at-home tips. First, recycle cooking oil or dispose of it properly. If disposing of it, place it in a sealable container and then throw it in the trash. For large quantities, mix it with clay cat litter and then throw it in the trash. Next, be sure to scrape food scraps into the trash and not the sink. This includes the food particles left behind in pots and pans, as well. Restaurants and other food establishments can follow the same advice. The biggest takeaway for everyone is not to pour oil or grease down a kitchen drain. Oil and grease in wastewater may not seem like a big deal, but they cause thousands of dollars of combined damage each year. Not only is this costly to repair, but it also subjects people to exposure of untreated sewage, which is an unnecessary health risk. Communities can prevent these issues by informing the general public on how to properly dispose of food byproducts, and ensuring that food establishments have procedures in place to prevent employees from dumping them down kitchen drains. Worried about oil and grease in wastewater? Wilks has the perfect solutions for your home or business. Learn more at http://wilksir.com/applications/oil-in-water-soil-testing/fog-in-wastewater.html.
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