Fatberg is a term used to describe congealed lumps of fat, sanitary items, wet wipes and other waste found in the sewer systems. It is advised not to throw too much grease, fat and sanitary products in the sewer system. Here at Maintain Drains, we can offer advice on how to prevent fatbergs and services to check your drains are working properly.
How to prevent fatbergs in the home
If you’re wondering how to prevent fatbergs from developing, there are a few easy steps you can take. Certain things (such as ensuring you do not dispose of wet wipes and sanitary products, or throwing excess oil into the bin) will help the sewage system work efficiently. Wet wipes are much harder to ‘break down’ than toilet paper. This leads to wet wipes combining with other materials in the sewers, such as fats and greases, causing fatbergs. Instead, simply dispose of things such as wet wipes and sanitary towels in the bin. The same goes for oils and fats. Rather than putting them down the drains, dispose of them in bin.
How to prevent fatbergs – commercial
If you work in a commercial kitchen, it is a good idea to have a grease trap installed. A grease trap is designed to ensure that grease and fats from the kitchen do not enter the public drainage system and cause fatbergs. In London, 90% of restaurants are contributing to the fatberg problems. It is advised that a kitchen should have regalar grease trap maintenance to ensure the grease trap is working effectively.
Cost of fatbergs
In recent times, a ‘Monster’ fatberg was found in east London sewer. The fatberg measured 250 meters long and weighed a staggering 130 tonnes, which took 9 weeks to clear. You can imagine the blockage and damage this was causing. Overall, Thames Water spend around £1 million a month clearing blockages in its sewer network.
Think you have a drainage problem?
If you follow these steps, and you can help prevent Fatbergs being caused in the nations sewers. If you feel like your drainage is slow or not functions properly, feel free to browse our drainage services or call us with your problems and we can provide a free, no obligation quote. Call: 01202 300040.