Fats, Oil and Grease

Overflows and sewer backups are commonly caused by fats, oils and grease (FOG). FOG gets into the sewer from household drains and neglected grease interceptors at businesses and restaurants. The FOG blocks sewer pipes, causing health hazards and leading to expensive fixes.

Using the garbage disposal does not alleviate FOG from entering your drain and sticking to the sides of pipes leading from the house to the street. Likewise, the dishwasher only cleans dishes, it does not remove grease. Running hot water down the sink with grease only pushes the grease further down the pipes which compounds the problem.

Please keep the following out of your drains and dishwasher:
• Butter
• Shortening
• Peanut Butter
• Meat Trimmings
• Vegetable, Canola or Olive oil or cooking oils
• Bacon or Sausage fat
• Gravy
• Mayonnaise

All of the above should be poured into a heat-resistant or other appropriate container and disposed of after cooling in the garbage, not poured down the drain.

Help protect your household and utility system pipes by keeping Fats, Rags, Oils and Grease out of the sewer system.

REMEMBER TO CALL THE CHARLES TOWN UTILITY BOARD IMMEDIATELY at (304) 725-2316 if you notice odors, roots, blockages or overflows. CTUB staff will assist and check the public sewer main and your lateral if a clean-out is available. If the problem is not in the City main, we will advise you to contact a plumber or sewer/drain cleaning service.