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H 10701 N. College Ave Suite A
Indianapolis, IN 46280
½  Mon- Fri  8:00am to 4:30pm
 
' Telephone 317-844-9200
7  Fax 317-844-9203
' Emergency 317-870-9136
   
   

                                                                                 

PRETREATMENT - RESIDENTIAL
 
Frequently Asked Questions on Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG)
What is FOG?
Where does FOG come from?
Why is FOG a problem?
Is FOG a problem in the District?
Who is responsible for the FOG discharge?
How can I help?
What is FOG?

The letters F, O, G stand for the words Fats, Oils and Grease. FOG are compounds of one, two or three fatty acids, combined with a Glycerol Backbone and derives from the living cells of animal and vegetable matter.

Where does FOG come from?

FOG is a byproduct of cooking and is found in things such as:

  • Food scraps

  • Dairy Products

  • Sauces

  • Baking Goods

  • Shortening

  • Lard

  • Butter and Margarine

  • Cooking Oil

FOG is washed into the plumbing system, usually through the kitchen, when cookware and dinnerware are washed.

Why is FOG a problem?
FOG is a problem mainly for two reasons:

  • If FOG makes it to the sewer, it solidifies and adheres to the sewer walls. Over time the FOG accumulates and blocks the sewer creating an overflow. Overflows are a public health and environmental hazards that expose the public to pathogens. Overflows are also a financial burden. Costs can range in the thousands if the wastewater backups in homes, or commercial buildings.

  • FOG can also damage equipment vital for the operation of the waste water utility.

Is FOG a problem in the District?
YES! The District has seen an increase in sewer backups due to FOG in the last few years. In an effort to control this problem and prevent it from becoming a liability to the community, the District has established a FOG preventive program for Food Service Facilities and an education program for residents in the District’s area.
Who is responsible for the FOG discharge?
Although restaurants are the most controlled industry when it comes to FOG, the most uncontrolled discharge comes from residential areas.
How can I help?

  • Always keep in mind that just because your grease waste is leaving your sink with no problem, that it won’t start creating a problem down the road for you, your neighbor and your community.

  • Do not pour grease down your sink.

  • Do not flush grease down your toilet.

  • Do not use your garbage disposal as a trashcan.

  • Do not pour food down your drain.

  • Wipe clean your dishes