Sewer System Grease Blockage: Causes, Impacts, and In-Pipe Technology’s Solutions
- Jessyka Lee
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Introduction to Sewer System Grease Blockage
One of the most persistent challenges facing municipalities and industrial wastewater managers is sewer system grease blockage. These blockages are caused by the accumulation of fats, oils, and grease (commonly referred to as FOG) within pipelines. Over time, grease solidifies, reduces pipe capacity, and can lead to severe backups and sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs).
At In-Pipe Technology, we know that addressing sewer system grease blockage at the source is the only truly sustainable solution. Our patented microbial and engineered treatment methods proactively manage FOG before it becomes a problem.
How Sewer System Grease Blockage Happens
Understanding the science behind sewer system grease blockage is essential to preventing it.
FOG Enters the System: Cooking oils, food scraps, industrial byproducts, and even personal care products contribute fats, oils, and grease to wastewater systems.
Cooling and Solidification: Once in the pipes, hot oils and grease cool and solidify, sticking to the pipe walls.
Layering Effect: With each new discharge, another layer forms, reducing pipe diameter and increasing the risk of a sewer system grease blockage.
Complete Blockage: Eventually, flow is severely restricted or stopped, often resulting in backups or overflows.
The Impacts of Sewer System Grease Blockage
Environmental Consequences
A sewer system grease blockage can cause untreated wastewater to discharge into local rivers, lakes, and groundwater, introducing pathogens, nutrients, and pollutants that harm ecosystems.
Infrastructure Damage
Hydrogen sulfide gas, produced when wastewater stagnates behind a sewer system grease blockage, corrodes concrete and metal infrastructure, shortening system lifespan and driving up maintenance costs.
Financial Burdens
According to the EPA, municipalities spend billions of dollars annually on clearing sewer blockages, many of which are directly linked to grease. Sewer system grease blockage isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a financial liability.
Public Health Risks
Backups caused by sewer system grease blockage can expose communities to harmful bacteria and create noxious odors, reducing quality of life.
Traditional Approaches to Sewer System Grease Blockage
Historically, municipalities have relied on:
Mechanical Jetting: High-pressure water clears pipes temporarily, but FOG returns quickly.
Chemical Dosing: Caustic chemicals break down grease but pose environmental and safety risks.
Public Education: Campaigns urging residents and businesses to “Keep Grease Out of the Drain” help, but compliance is inconsistent.
While these methods provide short-term relief, none solve sewer system grease blockage sustainably or economically.
In-Pipe Technology’s Solution for Sewer System Grease Blockage
Proactive Microbial Treatment
In-Pipe Technology addresses sewer system grease blockage by treating wastewater upstream with safe, naturally occurring microbes. These microbes:
Break down fats, oils, and grease before they solidify.
Reduce organic load, limiting conditions that promote blockages.
Convert grease into simple compounds like carbon dioxide and water.
Continuous Bioaugmentation
In-Pipe’s system continuously doses microbes into the sewer system, ensuring round-the-clock protection against sewer system grease blockage.
Case Studies in Action
In cities like Crown Point, Indiana, In-Pipe’s technology has reduced sludge production by 37%, simultaneously minimizing the buildup that contributes to sewer system grease blockage. These results highlight both economic savings and operational efficiency.
Additional Benefits
Odor Control: By reducing FOG buildup, In-Pipe lowers hydrogen sulfide emissions.
Extended Infrastructure Life: Preventing blockages means less stress and corrosion on pipes.
Cost Savings: Reduced need for jetting, chemical dosing, and emergency maintenance.
Why In-Pipe Technology Is the Go-To Partner
When municipalities and industrial facilities ask how to solve sewer system grease blockage, In-Pipe Technology offers the most comprehensive, sustainable, and proven solution.
Our patented microbial treatments are:
Environmentally safe
Cost-effective
Scalable for municipalities and industries of all sizes
Proven in real-world applications across the U.S.
Ending Sewer System Grease Blockage for Good
Sewer system grease blockage doesn’t have to drain municipal budgets or harm the environment. With In-Pipe Technology, the problem is solved at the source through innovative microbial bioaugmentation and engineered solutions.
By preventing blockages before they occur, In-Pipe ensures cleaner systems, fewer complaints, reduced costs, and long-term sustainability.
👉 Learn more about In-Pipe’s solutions for FOG control and sewer system efficiency.