For more tips on keeping your plumbing healthy, download the Grease Brochure at:
http://www.pinellascounty.org/utilities/PDF/Grease.pdf

Watch Videos About Grease Management Can the Grease Glob Fat, Oil & Grease

Avoid dangerous backups; Keep these items out of the pipes:

• Grease, fats, oils - these substances cause a wax-like buildup which can reduce the diameter of pipes, clog lift station pumps, and lead to sewer backups. Grease, fats and oils are troublesome substances. Extra care should be taken to avoid disposing of them into the wastewater system
• Paper towels
• Scouring pads, sponges
• Large quantities of toilet paper
• Feminine napkins, tampons, and plastic applicators
• Disposable diapers
• Clothing - e.g., socks, underwear
• Plastic products – e.g., plastic bags
• Any large items which can wedge in the pipes
• Substances which can swell with water – e.g., rice, corn, oatmeal, cereals
• Large quantities of live seeds, beans, and peas - these can sprout and begin to grow in the lines
• Sand - sinks and bath tubs are equipped with "sand traps" to help keep sand from entering sewer pipes. Sand is heavier than water and will build up on the bottom of pipes
• Fibrous materials - cotton balls, bandages, hair, rags, paper, cigarette butts - these substances can disintegrate, releasing individual fibers which snag in the lines and actually weave ropes or tangled masses resembling a mop
• Plastic, metal, or other non-soluble objects which become anchors for long fibers

NEVER flush hazardous waste such as flammable liquids, toxic chemicals, hypodermic needles, medicines or other products which may endanger public health or wastewater workers.

A simple regimen can keep your plumbing healthy. Start by separating fat and oil from cooking scraps or other solid food waste with a strainer and scraping the solids into the trash. After allowing the fat and oil to cool, pour them into a disposable container, wrap the container in a plastic bag to reduce odor, and put it in the trash. It's that simple.

For clogs, calling a professional is still the safest option for your plumbing, but it’s not always practical. Try this safe and inexpensive alternative. Easy Drain Cleaner: Use a plunger first, though not after using any commercial drain opener. To open clogs, pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain, add 1/2 cup white vinegar, and cover the drain. The resulting chemical reaction can break down fatty acids, allowing the clog to wash down the drain. Do not use this method after trying a commercial drain opener – the vinegar can react with the drain opener to create dangerous fumes.

For a free grease scraper for your pots and pans, e-mail pcuwebteam@pinellascounty.org
(For Pinellas County Utilities customers only)