Residential

Fats, oils and grease are substances that can cause big problems in the sewer system. When poured down the drain they can solidify on to the sides of pipes and build up until eventually a clog occurs. If a clog occurs in your lateral sewage may back up into your home causing you an expensive plumbing bill to unclog your pipe. If the clog occurs in the city sewer main sewage could run out on the street and flow down the storm drains polluting our creeks and streams. F.O.G. increases the overall cost of sewer system maintenance. Eliminating F.O.G. will help reduce these costs benefiting all our residents. Pleasanton is an environmentally friendly city. By working in partnership with residents and businesses we can all help keep Pleasanton a beautiful place to live.

Our goal is to educate the residents and businesses of Pleasanton raising awareness of these problems so we can all take a proactive approach to prevent these clogs from occurring.

So how do I help?

Fats, oil and grease can be found in many items. Cooking oils, condiments that are made with oils, meat juices and fat are examples. When poured down the drain these items can cause sewer pipes to become clogged. Put these items in a disposable container and throw it in the garbage. Better yet, throw all food scraps in the green garbage where they will be processed into rich compost material for gardening, landscaping and farming. You will be doing yourself and your community a favor. 

Preventing F.O.G. from causing a clog is a role everyone can play. The following tips can help prevent a clog or sewer overflow in your home or neighborhood.

1. Food stuffs containing fats, oils and grease should NEVER be poured down the drain. Sink drains and garbage disposals are not designed to properly handle these materials.
   
2. Before washing, scrape and dry wipe pots, pans and dishes with paper towels and dispose of materials in the trash or green garbage where appropriate.
   
3. Pour fats, oils and grease after it has cooled into a disposable container, such as an empty glass jar, coffee can or waxed paper containers such as milk or juice cartons. Once the liquid has solidified, secure the lid and place the container in the trash. Tear off any plastic spouts and caps on waxed paper containers before throwing in the green garbage.
   
4. Avoid relying on the garbage disposer to get rid of food scraps. The garbage disposer chops up food into small pieces, but can still cause a blockage in the pipe. Use sink strainers to catch food items, then empty the strainer into the trash or green garbage.

FOG Business (Restaurants)