Why You Should Never Put Grease Down the Drain
During the holidays and throughout the year, cooking is a big part of life at home. From bacon grease and cooking oils to butter and meat drippings, grease is a common byproduct in the kitchen. It might seem harmless to rinse it down the sink while it’s still hot and liquid — but doing so can lead to some of the most common and expensive plumbing problems homeowners face.
At Bear Plumbing, we see grease-related drain issues all the time, especially after holidays and family gatherings. Understanding why grease and drains don’t mix can save you time, money, and major headaches.
What Happens When Grease Goes Down the Drain?
When grease is hot, it flows easily. This gives many homeowners a false sense of security. But as grease cools, it solidifies. Once it enters your plumbing system, it begins to stick to the inside of your pipes.
Over time, layers of grease build up and trap other debris like food particles, soap residue, and hair. This buildup slowly narrows the pipe until water can no longer pass through easily — or at all.
The result?
• Slow drains
• Frequent clogs
• Foul odors
• Backups into sinks or tubs
• Potential pipe damage
In severe cases, grease buildup can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to water damage inside walls, cabinets, or floors.
Why Grease Is Especially Hard on Older Plumbing
Many homes in Beavercreek, Greene County, and Montgomery County are several decades old. Older plumbing systems are more vulnerable to grease damage because:
• Pipes may already have corrosion or buildup
• Older pipe materials are rougher inside, allowing grease to stick more easily
• Drain lines may not be designed for modern cooking habits
Even small amounts of grease added regularly can create big problems over time.
Common Grease Mistakes Homeowners Make
One of the biggest misconceptions is that “a little bit won’t hurt.” Unfortunately, even small amounts of grease can accumulate.
Here are some common mistakes we see:
• Pouring grease down the drain with hot water
• Rinsing greasy pans directly in the sink
• Letting food scraps wash into the drain
• Relying on the garbage disposal to handle grease
Garbage disposals are designed for small food particles — not fats, oils, or grease. Using them this way often leads to clogs deeper in the plumbing system where they’re harder to reach.
How to Properly Dispose of Grease
The good news is that avoiding grease-related plumbing issues is simple.
Here’s what we recommend:
Let grease cool and solidify
Pour it into a disposable container (like a can or foil-lined cup)
Throw it in the trash
Wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing
Using a sink strainer can also help prevent food particles from going down the drain and sticking to grease residue inside pipes.
Signs You May Already Have a Grease Clog
If grease has already been going down your drain, watch for these warning signs:
• Slow draining sinks
• Gurgling sounds from pipes
• Foul odors coming from drains
• Water backing up when using the sink or dishwasher
If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to address them early. Ignoring the problem often leads to bigger repairs later.
How Bear Plumbing Can Help
At Bear Plumbing, we help homeowners throughout Beavercreek, Greene County, and Montgomery County safely clear grease buildup and prevent future issues. Our services include:
• Professional drain cleaning
• Clog removal
• Pipe inspections
• Honest recommendations to protect your plumbing
As a family-owned local plumbing company, we believe in fair pricing, clear communication, and getting the job done right the first time.
Protect Your Plumbing with Simple Habits
Keeping grease out of your drains is one of the easiest ways to protect your home’s plumbing system. A few small habit changes can prevent costly repairs, water damage, and inconvenient backups.
If you’re dealing with slow drains or suspect grease buildup, don’t wait until it becomes an emergency. Visit www.bearplumbingservices.com or contact Bear Plumbing today — we’re here when you need us most.
