A plumber’s recent video has highlighted the serious consequences of pouring cooking grease down kitchen sinks. In the video, shared on Instagram, plumber Josh Pollard demonstrated how this common practice can lead to significant plumbing issues, including severe blockages in drainage systems.
Kitchen sinks are essential for various household tasks, including washing dishes and rinsing food items. However, they are not designed to handle all types of waste. Pollard’s findings emerged when he was called to a client’s home, where the kitchen sink was backing up. The homeowner insisted that they had never disposed of grease down the drain.
After inspecting the plumbing, Pollard traced the issue back to the nearest manhole cover. Upon opening it, he discovered a massive blockage of solidified grease and fat. The grim sight of grey and white sludge completely obstructing the drainage system prompted Pollard to don gloves and begin the cleanup process.
Once he cleared enough of the blockage, Pollard used a flexible camera to inspect the remaining pipes. He found additional grease buildup, indicating that the issue persisted further along the drainage line. He stated, “I wash down the manhole and then carry out another camera inspection to prove the condition of the drain line. This can accelerate the buildup of fat and grease in the line, but it’s not the root cause.”
The video resonated with many viewers, who expressed their disgust at the sight of the blockage. Comments ranged from admiration for Pollard’s work to a newfound awareness of the importance of proper grease disposal. One viewer shared, “Well done for doing that type of work. I don’t think I have the stomach for it.”
To prevent similar plumbing disasters, experts recommend several practical steps for disposing of cooking grease. First, allow the grease to cool and solidify in its container. Once solid, scrape it into a disposable container and dispose of it in the regular rubbish bin. Another option is to use a designated, heat-resistant container for collecting cooking grease, which can be sealed and discarded when full.
Additionally, it is crucial to wipe excess grease from pans and dishes with a paper towel before washing them. Importantly, never pour grease, fat, or oil down the sink or toilet, even with hot water or soap, as this can lead to blockages in plumbing and municipal sewer systems.
Lastly, individuals should check with local waste management or recycling programs, as some councils offer recycling options for used cooking oil and grease. By following these guidelines, homeowners can protect their plumbing systems and avoid costly repairs.
Pollard’s video serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with improper waste disposal in kitchens. The impact of such practices extends beyond individual homes, affecting municipal systems that handle waste for entire communities.
