Hydro Jet Cleaning & A Plumbing Nemesis: Grease

Hydro Jet Cleaning for Grease

You’ve just made a delicious batch of homemade french fries! You’re cleaning up and you have oil to get rid of. Your first instinct is to pour it down the drain. Stop! Do you know why pouring grease down the drain is a big plumbing no-no? In this article we will go over a few key reasons you should avoid pouring grease down your sink and explore other solutions, like hydro jet cleaning for your pipes.

Why you shouldn’t pour oil down the sink

1. Solidification: 

It may seem harmless since warm oil is liquid. However, when grease cools, it hardens and sticks to the pipe walls. Over time this builds up and traps other particles. The end result is a serious pipe clog.

2. Clog formation: 

As the grease builds up inside the pipe it can eventually narrow the pipe diameter. This leads to significant clogs and drainage problems that will require the assistance of a professional plumber.

3. Sewer system impact: 

Grease can also contribute to large blockages in the municipal sewer system. These blockages are also known as “fatbergs”. “Fatbergs” are large masses of solidified grease. Along with other materials and debris, they can cause major plumbing issues for your neighbors and the whole community.

What to do instead:

Instead of pouring oil down the drain there are a couple other options that are easy and practical.

1. Cool the oil and throw it in the trash: 

After cooking, let the grease cool completely, then pour it into a container (like an old jar or thick plastic bag) and dispose of it with your regular garbage.

2. Use a grease trap: 

Another practical option is using a grease trap. A grease trap is a plumbing device that intercepts grease and solids before they enter the water system. These are required in commercial kitchens, for example, and need to be cleaned periodically.

Help from the professionals – Hydro Jet Cleaning

Sometimes grease buildup is inevitable. Over time greasy residue can also cause blockages and clogs. If you notice your sink is draining slowly or there is a strange odor, it might be time to call in the professionals, aka hydro jet cleaning. 

So-Cal Hydro Jet uses specialized video equipment to inspect pipes. This allows us to find the root cause of any blockage or clog. Then, using carefully selected nozzles for each job, we can hydro jet the pipes and leave them completely clean. After completing the hydro jetting, we reinspect the pipes with the camera to make sure all the grease and debris has been removed. 

Call So-Cal Hydro Jet today for a quote on our expert hydro jet cleaning. We are available 24/7 to cover all your plumbing needs and emergencies. With more than 20 years experience and a deep commitment to doing the job right, So-Cal Hydro Jet is the ideal service for all types of jobs.

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