There’s nothing worse than a clogged drain that backs up the plumbing in your home. The same holds true for the city’s sewer lines. When fatty waste from cooking is poured down the drain, it can solidify and block sewer lines, causing raw sewage to overflow on to our streets, into our storm water drain system and waterways, polluting our city and ocean. 

Through Santa Ana’s comprehensive fats, oils and grease (FOG) Control Program, less fats, oils and grease are being poured into our drains, thanks to all the restaurants and food service establishments that adhere to our program guidelines and to residents who are aware of the potential health and environmental hazards. 

Water Services Quality Inspector Nadiya Balukh checks a grease interceptor at MainPlace Mall with a dipstick to determine if it needs to be pumped and cleaned to keep FOG out of the wastewater system. Interceptors are installed to channel sink water from a Food Service Establishment (FSE) and to capture any FOG that may cause clogs in sewer pipes.

These program guidelines and additional resources are available by visiting the City’s website. It’s important to remember that fats, oils and grease do not break down in water, and even most soaps and other agents, like drain cleaner or detergent, can’t dissolve grease effectively enough to keep the sewer system clear. 

Following these simple steps will not only save you an emergency call to the plumber, but will help protect our natural resources.