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The holidays bring joy, family gatherings, and plenty of delicious food—but they can also bring plumbing problems you don’t want to deal with. When cooking large meals, the biggest culprit behind slow drains and kitchen sink backups is fat, oil, and grease (FOG). Once poured down the drain, these substances harden inside your pipes and can create stubborn clogs.
Don’t wait until a kitchen disaster strikes. If you suspect a clog or would like to schedule a plumbing inspection, please contact Saia Plumbing Inc. today or call (504) 386-5243. Our expert plumbers in New Orleans, LA are ready to help keep your holiday stress-free.
Why Fat, Oil, and Grease Cause Clogs
When warm grease or oil goes down the drain, it doesn’t stay liquid for long. As it cools, it hardens—coating the inside of your pipes and trapping bits of food, soap, and debris. Over time, this sticky buildup can completely block water flow.
Common sources of FOG include:
- Bacon grease and other cooking fats
- Butter, shortening, and lard
- Salad dressings, sauces, and gravies
Even small amounts poured down the drain regularly can lead to big problems. It’s not just your home’s pipes that are affected—FOG clogs can also harm the public sewer system, leading to expensive citywide repairs.
Smart Ways to Prevent FOG Clogs This Holiday Season
You don’t need to change your holiday menu to protect your plumbing. A few simple habits can make all the difference:
1. Dispose of Grease Properly
- After cooking, let the grease cool and solidify.
- Scrape it into a sealed container or a disposable can, then dispose of it in the trash.
- Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before rinsing them in the sink.
2. Use Sink Strainers
A mesh sink strainer catches food scraps and keeps them from washing down the drain. Empty it into the trash regularly to maintain clear water flow.
3. Avoid the Garbage Disposal for Greasy Foods
Your disposal can’t handle oils and fats—they just melt and re-solidify farther down the line. Avoid putting:
- Meat drippings
- Butter-coated foods
- Starchy leftovers like mashed potatoes or pasta
4. Run Hot Water and Dish Soap
If you accidentally let a bit of oil slip through, run hot water with dish soap for a few minutes. The soap helps break down grease before it hardens.
Signs You Might Already Have a FOG Clog
Catch minor issues before they turn into plumbing emergencies. Watch for:
- Slow-draining sinks
- Gurgling noises from the drain
- Unpleasant odors coming from the kitchen sink
If you notice any of these, it’s time to call a professional plumber in New Orleans, LA for an inspection. Early action can save you from a messy—and costly—backup later.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While at-home maintenance can prevent buildup, severe FOG clogs often require professional cleaning. Plumbers have specialized tools, like hydro jetting equipment, that safely clear out grease without damaging your pipes.
If your drains are slow or you’re dealing with frequent backups, don’t wait until the holidays are in full swing. Contact Saia Plumbing Inc. or call (504) 386-5243 to schedule reliable plumbing services before guests arrive.
Keep Your Holidays Running Smoothly
A little prevention goes a long way toward protecting your home’s plumbing system during the busiest cooking season of the year. By handling grease properly and calling a trusted professional when needed, you can enjoy your celebrations without worry.
For expert help from a trusted plumber in New Orleans, LA, visit our plumbing services page or call (504) 386-5243 today. Saia Plumbing Inc. is here to make sure your plumbing flows smoothly all season long.