As kitchens fill with the aroma of Christmas cookies and festive holiday meals, Union County Water is asking all customers to be mindful with what goes into your kitchen sink, especially fats, oils and grease. Holiday cooking tends to use more butter, meat drippings, gravy, and cooking oil than any other time of year. While it may seem convenient to rinse small amounts down the sink, these substances cool quickly as they travel through pipes — eventually hardening into thick blockages that can cause costly plumbing repairs and even sewer overflows.

To keep homes and neighborhoods clog-free this season, Union County Water encourages customers to remember that keeping their pipes clear and functional helps ensure that our public wastewater system remains functional for everyone.

How to Properly Dispose of Fats, Oils & Grease

After cooking, allow fats and oils to cool, then scrape them into a container or disposable can before throwing them in the trash. Paper towels or napkins can also be used to wipe excess grease from pans and dishes before washing.

What is Considered Fats, Oils & Grease?

Common holiday culprits include:

• Butter from baking
• Turkey or ham drippings
• Gravy and sauces
• Oil from frying or sautéing
• Dairy-heavy foods like cheese dips and casseroles

Keeping these materials out of the sink helps protect both household plumbing and our public wastewater system.

For more information, visit our Protect Your Pipes: Fats, Oils, & Grease (FOG) webpage.