How Do I Remove Fat From Septic Systems?

Fats being poured down the drain will end up in your septic tank.

When you send things down the drain of your sink or tub, they make their way to your septic tank if your house has a septic system. The septic tank can become clogged if you're sending down grease, oil and fats. Fat solidifies once it has cooled, and the septic tank can't break it down. The fat can then block access in and out of the tank.

Things You'll Need

• Drain cleaner
• Grease trap

Instructions

1. Pump out the septic tank to empty all the tank's contents. Alternatively, skim the solidified fat from the top of the tank. Since fat weighs less than water, if you open the septic tank, the fat will be sitting on top of the water in a solid mass.

2. Install a grease trap. You should be able to see where your kitchen drain flows into the septic tank. Installing a grease trap between the drain and the location where it enters the tank will stop fat from going into the septic tank. You can then empty the trap, preventing the grease from clogging the rest of your tank. Proper septic tank maintenance dictates emptying your grease trap at least twice a year.

3. Pour drain cleaner down the kitchen drain. It will help to move any fat in the drain. Do this frequently, as it's a good way to maintain a clear and clean kitchen drain.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear gloves when working with the septic system.

References

• Gator Septic: How Septic Works
• Oregon Association of Clean Water: Grease Traps