As a homeowner, it's important to understand what should and should not go down your drains. Neglecting this knowledge can lead to clogged pipes, sewer backups, and costly repairs.
In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the 10 things you should never pour down your drains. By following these tips, you can prevent plumbing disasters and maintain a healthy plumbing system.
Cooking Oil and Grease
Pouring cooking oil and grease down your drains may seem convenient, but it can cause significant damage over time. These substances solidify and create blockages in your pipes, leading to clogs and backups. Instead, collect used oil and grease in a container and dispose of it properly in the trash.
Coffee Grounds
While it may be tempting to rinse your coffee grounds down the sink, they can accumulate in your pipes and cause blockages. Instead, toss them in the trash or use them as compost for your garden.
Eggshells
Contrary to popular belief, eggshells should not be disposed of in the garbage disposal or down the drain. The thin membrane inside the shell can easily stick to the pipes, causing clogs. Dispose of eggshells in the trash or use them as fertilizer in your garden.
Medications
Flushing medications down the toilet or pouring them down the drain can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic life. Instead, check with your local pharmacy or government agencies for safe disposal options.
Paint and Chemicals
Never pour paint, solvents, or other chemicals down your drains. These substances can contaminate water sources and cause environmental damage. Contact your local waste management facility for proper disposal methods.
Dental Floss
Although dental floss is small and seemingly harmless, it can wrap around pipes and create blockages. Dispose of dental floss in the trash to avoid potential plumbing issues.
Cat Litter
Flushing cat litter down the toilet may seem convenient, but it can lead to clogs and damage to your plumbing system. Cat litter often contains clay or silica, which can expand and cause blockages. Dispose of cat litter in the trash instead.
Paper Products
Avoid flushing paper towels, sanitary products, or wet wipes down the toilet. These items do not break down easily and can cause blockages in your pipes. Dispose of them in the trash or use biodegradable alternatives.
Fruit Peels
Although fruit peels are organic, they can cause clogs in your garbage disposal or pipes. Dispose of fruit peels in the trash or use them as compost for your garden.
Chemical Drain Cleaners
While it may be tempting to use chemical drain cleaners for a quick fix, they can cause damage to your pipes over time. Opt for natural alternatives or contact a professional plumber to address the root cause of drain clogs.
Contact Simmons Plumbing LLC
By avoiding these 10 common mistakes, you can maintain a healthy plumbing system and prevent costly repairs. Remember to dispose of these items properly and seek professional help when needed. At Simmons Plumbing LLC, we specialize in providing top-notch plumbing services to keep your drains flowing smoothly.
Contact Simmons Plumbing LLC today for expert assistance!