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Cranbrook, BC (November 2, 2026) – Fats, oils, and grease are the main culprit of clogged pipes and drains. When accumulated, they can lead to large backups and costly repairs.

Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are known as organic compounds. Oils and grease are liquid at room temperature but solidify when cooled, resulting in blockages.

The City is educating the public about the downfall of having butter, cooking oils, meat fats, and leftover grease washing down your drain and entering the City wastewater system. These accumulations across thousands of residential properties result in large sewage backups, and require frequent and expensive maintenance to mitigate.

Homeowners, renters, landlords, and all property owners can prevent household plumbing backups by practicing proper food-waste disposal habits. Hot soapy water does not permanently dissolve FOG. The liquids solidify in the cold sewer pipes, beginning to coat the lines before building up and causing a blockage.

We all can work as a TEAM to prevent and limit fats, oils, and grease from entering the City system. This helps mitigate localized issues and ensure our pipes and drains remain clear.

Trap Then Trash
•    capture loose scraps and solids with a fine mesh drain basket or kitchen stainer
•    trap all warm cooking grease in tinfoil over the drain or by pouring into a disposable container
•    place the tinfoil or disposable container in the trash once cool and solidified

Empty Your Plates
•    scrape your plates, dishes, and bowls clean
•    wipe away sauces, gravies, and any remaining residues

Avoid The Disposal
•    garbage disposals are not an effective tool for meat scraps and oily foods
•    greases and oils will still congeal further down the line beyond the garbage disposal

Maintain Your System
•    clean your drains monthly by using a natural cleaning mixture of baking soda and vinegar
•    inspect your drains and pipes annually or schedule a professional cleaning once a year

Learn more about FOG clogs and preventative measures at https://cranbrook.ca/our-city/city-departments/public-works/sanitary-sewer-system/fats-oils-and-grease-management.