Grease down the drain is not an immediate problem. But over time, it can cause major problems. Some people who cook pour cooking oil, fats and dinner leftovers down the drain without realizing the consequences.
Hot grease flows freely, but as it cools, it freezes in pipes, creating obstructions and expensive repairs. Being aware of when grease buildup can cause issues in your drain system will save you money on future drain cleaning services and keep your pipes in good condition.
Why Grease Builds Up in Pipes
Grease enters the drain in liquid form, but as it moves down the pipes, it begins to cool and harden. This sticky, solid residue accumulates on the inside walls of plumbing systems. Over time, this builds up, causing debris and other contaminants to attach to these surfaces, forming thick layers that restrict the flow of water.
Grease doesn’t break down as regular garbage does. It keeps building up and can develop clogs that are tough to clear without professional help.
Typical Issues Caused by Grease Buildup
While grease buildup might not appear to be a serious concern, it can cause many plumbing issues that may disrupt your everyday routine. Grease buildup narrows pipes and restricts water flow, leading to poor drainage.
In severe circumstances, it might also produce a complete obstruction. When it gets blocked, water backs up into sinks, dishwashers or even floor drains. Blocked pipes can also cause pressure to build up in the system and this can lead to leaks or pipe damage over time.
Grease clogs can affect sewer lines, not just pipes. Mixed with other sediments, it can create enormous blockages that obstruct the main line and require more urgent and more expensive repairs.
Signs to Look Out For
It is important to watch for early warning signs at the very onset before grease starts to accumulate. The slow drainage of water from the sink is the initial indicator of a grease blockage.
Bad odors emanating from the drain may be due to the accumulation of food waste and oil. The sound of gurgling in the pipes suggests the presence of a barrier blocking the air movement. In the event that water begins to back up, it is an indication that the drain cannot handle the pressure any further.
Regular inspection of these issues will prevent any further complications in the drainage process.
How Grease Affects Your Plumbing System
If the problem is not fixed immediately, the entire plumbing system can become weaker. Blockages can lead to leaks or cracks due to increased pressure, which can also damage your pipes. If pipes are weakened, they become more susceptible to damage.
Persistent clogging issues require repeated use of chemical drain cleaners, which can also ruin your pipes. In some instances, major buildup requires pipe replacement that is often costly and time-consuming.
When to Call a Professional
If clogs are recurring and your drainage is slow, it is already clear that you need to call a plumber. Methods such as hydro jetting are some of the best techniques that professional plumbers use in draining grease deposits and restoring proper flow.
It is advisable to carry out an early inspection of your drainage system by a professional plumber because ignoring the problem will only worsen it. A professional plumber will conduct a thorough inspection of your system and detect other issues that might have been left unnoticed by you.
Summing Up
Grease buildup can initially be a minor problem, but it can later on develop into a significant one in your drainage system.
It can affect your daily activities and may even result in very expensive maintenance costs.
The plumbing team at Santana Bros Plumbing can help you out with an early inspection before it progresses. Call us at (713) 494-5504 and schedule our services.