Effects of Cooking Oils in Septic Tank

by | Jan 7, 2019 | Septic System Repair, Septic System Replacement

How Cooking Oils Damage Septic Tank Systems in Clearwater MNFOG in Septic Tank – Fats Oils Grease

Far too often Septic System Problems can be attributed to a buildup of FOG (Fats, Oils and Grease) inside of the septic tank. While a small amount of FOG will be found in just about all septic systems, too much is definitely a bad thing. Its not just Cooking Oils in liquid form that can cause problems. With the frequent use of Garbage Disposals other foods can be a source of fats inside of the tank. Dairy Products and Processed Foods contain fats that are likely to become Septic Tank Scum. At CSI Custom Septic, Inc. we provide Septic System Repairs and Replacements for damaged septic systems in Clearwater, Minnesota.

 

Clogged Pipes | Septic Tank Scum | Soil Clogging

It is important to remember that anything that goes down your kitchen drain will end up in the Septic Tank. As you wash dishes some grease, oil and other fats are likely to end up in the Plumbing Pipes and Sewage System. A healthy septic system can handle a limited amount of FOG. If someone pours a pan of bacon grease down the sink it could result in negative effects including Clogged Pipes, Septic Tank Scum or Soil Clogging in the Drainfield.

 

Source of FOG in Septic Systems

  • Oils: vegetable oil, olive oil, peanut oil, canola oil, deep-frying oils
  • Grease or Lard from cooking
  • Fats: bacon, hamburgers, steak, chicken skin, sausage, pork chops, hotdogs, bratwurst, lunchmeats, etc.
  • Dairy: milk, butter, cheese, ice cream, sour cream, yogurt, creams, etc.
  • Process Foods: chips, crackers, etc.

 

How Fat | Grease | Oil Damage Septic Tanks

Pouring liquid grease down the drain may not seem like it would cause much damage but it could affect the chemistry of the whole septic system. As many septic owners learn too late, nearly half of all Sewer Backups are connected to FOG (fats, oils and grease) in plumbing and septic components. The damages caused by fats that solidify in the septic tank can result in expensive repair bills. Here are some of the ways in which Fat, Grease and Oils can Damage Septic Tank Systems:

 

  • FOG that is in a liquid form in hot water can turn to a more solid state when cooled. It often sticks to the sides of plumbing and septic pipes where other types of debris can get caught up and form a blockage.

 

  • FOG collects in the top of the septic tank to form a layer of scum. The biological treatment going on inside of the septic tank relies on bacteria to digest and breakdown sewage. Since bacterial action does not easily digest FOG, it will need to be pumped out.

 

  • FOG that is not cleaned out of the septic tank before it becomes too thick can get lodged in the septic tank outlet valve or travel out to the drainfield in the partially treated wastewater. Scum collecting in the soil beneath the drainage pipes can cause the whole system to come to a halt.

 

Minnesota Septic Repair Company

A Clogged Septic Tank or Drainfield Malfunction is no fun and could result in a big, messy problem. At CSI Custom Septic, Inc., a Minnesota septic repair company, we provide fair, honest and cost effective solutions for Damaged Septic Systems including Septic Repairs and Drainfield Replacements.

In Clearwater and Clear Lake MN, contact CSI Custom Septic, Inc. for a Free Estimate on Quality Septic System Repairs at 763-218-4769.