What is a Fatberg, and How to Deal with it?

A fatberg is a massive, congealed lump of fats, oils, grease (FOG), and non-biodegradable items such as sanitary products, wet wipes, and other waste that accumulates in sewers. Over time, these materials combine to form a solid blockage that can obstruct the flow of wastewater, leading to significant plumbing and environmental problems.

How Do Fatbergs Form?

Fatbergs form when oils, fats, and grease are washed down sinks and drains. These substances cool and solidify in the pipes, trapping other waste materials like wet wipes, cotton buds, and hygiene products. The accumulation grows larger over time, creating a dense and solid mass that can completely block sewer lines.

Problems Caused by Fatbergs

• Blocked Sewers: Fatbergs can lead to severe blockages, causing wastewater to back up into homes and streets.
• Environmental Damage: Overflowing sewers can pollute rivers, streams, and other natural water sources.
• Expensive Repairs: Removing fatbergs requires specialised equipment and expertise, leading to high maintenance costs for municipalities and property owners.
• Health Hazards: Stagnant wastewater caused by blockages can create unsanitary conditions and spread diseases.

Solutions for Dealing with Fatbergs

If a fatberg has formed, prompt action is essential to minimise damage. Here’s how to address the issue:

Professional Removal:

Contact drainage experts like Fast Drains to safely and efficiently break down and remove the fatberg using high-pressure water jets or mechanical equipment.

Pipe Cleaning:

After removing the blockage, thorough cleaning of the pipes ensures no residual build-up remains, preventing future issues.

Regular Maintenance:

Schedule periodic inspections and cleaning to keep the drainage system clear of potential blockages.

Public Awareness:

Educate household members or staff to avoid disposing of FOG and non-biodegradable items down the drain.

Preventing Fatbergs

Prevention is key to avoiding the formation of fatbergs. Here are some practical steps:

• Dispose of Fats, Oils, and Grease Properly: Allow FOG to cool and solidify before discarding it in the bin.
• Use Sink Strainers: Install strainers in your sinks to capture food scraps and debris, preventing them from entering the drain.
• Flush Responsibly: Only flush toilet paper down the toilet; avoid disposing of wet wipes, sanitary items, or other non-biodegradable materials.
• Raise Awareness: Inform others about the dangers of fatbergs and promote responsible waste disposal practices.

Adopting these habits can safeguard your plumbing system and help create a cleaner, more sustainable environment.