Preventing Blockages
Keeping Our System Flowing Smoothly
Fats, oils, grease, wipes, and other solids can cause serious clogs in our wastewater system if not disposed of properly.
At home or at work, doing your part helps keep sewer lines clear, prevents costly backups, and protects public health and the environment.
How Does Grease Get Into the System?
Grease enters the sewer system most often from two main sources:
- Household drains — cooking oil and fatty food waste poured down the sink
- Poorly maintained grease traps in restaurants and commercial kitchens
What You Can Do at Home
Simple steps make a big difference:
- Never pour grease or oil down the drain or toilet
- Scrape grease and food scraps into a can, disposable container, or bag — then toss it in the trash
- Don’t rely on garbage disposals – they don’t keep grease out of the system
- Avoid detergents that claim to dissolve grease – they only move the problem downstream
- Use a basket or strainer in your sink to catch food waste and throw it away
- Don’t flush rags, wipes, diapers, or other solids down the toilet
A Manhole is Not a Trash Can
Never attempt to lift a manhole cover or dispose of anything inside.
Sewer crews have found everything from buckets and cinder blocks to construction debris dumped into manholes. These items cause immediate blockages and can lead to system-wide problems.
Commercial Customers: Grease Management Program
Why It Matters
Grease blockages are the leading cause of sewer overflows — and commercial kitchens are a major source. To help reduce grease at the source, Newnan Utilities operates a Grease Management Program in line with Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) guidelines.
How It Works
- All businesses with food preparation facilities are required to have properly installed and maintained grease traps.
- Newnan Utilities contracts with Burnum Grease Elimination Services to perform the pumping.
- Charges for grease trap services appear directly on your Newnan Utilities statement.
- Regular service helps prevent costly repairs, protects the community, and keeps your operations compliant.
Need Help or Have Questions? Reach out to the Grease Management team directly: GMP@NewnanUtilities.org