Tips for Preventing Grease Blockages in Your Kitchen Drain

Grease blockages are one of the most common and frustrating plumbing problems in the kitchen. While it may seem harmless to rinse out greasy pans or pour cooking grease down the drain, grease doesn’t stay liquid for long. As it cools, it hardens and sticks to the inside of your pipes, gradually building up until it causes a slow drain or a complete blockage. Fortunately, with a few simple habits and preventative measures, you can keep your kitchen drain clear and avoid costly plumbing repairs.

Never Pour Grease Down the Drain

Rule number one for preventing grease blockages is simple: never pour grease, oil, or lard down the sink. Even if you rinse with hot water afterward, grease will still cool down and harden further along in the pipes. A better approach is to let the grease cool and solidify in a container, then throw it away in the trash. For liquid cooking oils, pour them into a heat-safe jar or can, and discard the container once it’s full.

Clean before you wash

Before rinsing dishes, pans, or cooking utensils, blot up any excess grease with a paper towel. This small step can make a big difference in reducing the amount of oil that goes down the drain. This is especially important after cooking fatty foods like bacon, sausages, or fried foods, which leave a significant amount of residue.

Use a Sink Strainer

Installing a sink strainer can help catch food debris that combines with grease to form stubborn clogs. These inexpensive tools are easy to clean and very effective at keeping debris from entering the drain. Empty the strainer into the trash regularly, especially after washing dishes or preparing food.

Flush the drain with hot, soapy water

To help flush out any grease that may have gotten into the drain, run hot water with dish soap down the sink after eating something greasy. Dish soap breaks down oils, and the hot water helps keep them moving through the pipes. This won’t clear a clog, but it can help reduce clog buildup over time.

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