PR Newswire·Nov 12, 2026, 10:00 AM ET

Maryland American Water Wants Customers to Pause and Think Before Pouring Fats, Oils and Grease Down the Kitchen Sink

Maryland American Water urges customers in Maryland to prevent clogs & sewer backups during holiday gatherings by managing fats, oils & grease (FOGs).
FOGs poured down drains can cool, solidify, & accumulate in pipes, leading to costly plumbing repairs & wastewater system issues.
Laura Runkle, President of Maryland American Water, states that keeping FOGs out of drains protects local pipes & ensures smooth wastewater operations.
Customers should allow FOGs to cool in a sealable container for proper disposal instead of pouring them down the sink.
Excess grease on cookware should be wiped away with a paper towel before washing or placing items in the dishwasher.
Food scraps, sauces, & solids should be scraped into the trash rather than disposed of in the drain or garbage disposal.
Sink strainers should be used to catch food particles before they enter the plumbing system.
Running hot water or using dish soap does not eliminate grease buildup, as FOG can still cool & accumulate further down pipes.
American Water has released a short video guide demonstrating practical tips for keeping FOGs out of household drains.
American Water is the largest regulated water & wastewater utility in the US, serving ~14 million people across 14 states & 19 military installations.
Maryland American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, provides water services to approximately 32,000 people.