How to remove grease from drain pipes?

7/22/2015 at 9:56:59 AM

Hi Jason,

I find that most clogs happen in the trap below the sink. They are usually remove able so you could take it off and clean it out separately. You also have easier and more direct access to the rest of the system once you take the trap off. You may be able to snake it easier yourself.

If that doesn't work, call in a pro. They have better equipment and can also scope the line with a camera to see if you have any other issues. With tough clogs like yours, it is usually worth the cost.

Good luck with it.

Jim Kuzma

Kettleby Handyman

7/22/2015 at 7:41:28 PM

Honestly, if you have a grease build up in your smaller 1 1/2 pipe work ie kitchen drains. There is no product that will magically cure this. You have to replace them. its painful i know but the only sure way to solve this.

7/23/2015 at 8:35:57 AM

Hi Jason,

You really need a camera inspection. Call a pro. It'll save your time and money you spend on cleaning your pipe.

7/26/2015 at 10:39:00 AM

Hi Jason,

In my experiences with grease in the drains, you can have the grease pretty far back in the drains. Unfortunately the only way to fix the problem is to have the drain pipes replaced.Then once the drain pipes are replaced the best way to drain grease is with the hot water running.

Good luck with this project.

Handy Mikey

10/18/2017 at 8:36:30 PM

The Direct answer is An auger and steam or hot water. Problem with grease is when you melt it and it runs further it will simply solidify further down.

- Yes Replacing the pipes can help

- Ideally you'll run a camera down to see where the blockages are. Ie Call someone with the equipment which costs 4000-15,000.

- Once you know where the block is you can use an auger or Jet auger to wash away the blockage all while making sure it does not get lodged further down the line. Make sure it hits the City Sewer likely 8-16" pipe.

- Never Run grease down a drain with hot water! If you plan on running grease down a drain don't do it. If it happens because someone forgot or like you explained buying an old house. Fill the sinks up once a month warm soapy water. let both drain down at the same time. The head pressure will Push small debris further down the line in hopes it gets to the main. At that point hopefully someone in the family has a bath once a month to run a good 30 gallons at the same time all while flushing a toilet or two.

Lastly before you buy a house always get an home inspector and a Plumber to Camera the drains especially if it's an old house and there are trees in the yard!! Never Buy a house unless you know the main's are in good condition. To repair mains is 15-100k On a new to you mortgage that's a huge hit! If they are buggered then at least you have negotiating power.

5/4/2020 at 10:46:02 AM

1st don't ever dump grease in drains!...you can buy a enzyme product from most building chemical or janitorial suppliers that overtime will begin to dissolve grease (works by building up microbes)..if really bad you may have to hire a drain company that specialize in steam cleaning of drains..never seen a residential one done as they are typically for commercial kitchens but try the ads and ask