What Not to Put Down Your Drains
As a homeowner, you rely on your drains to efficiently remove wastewater from your home. However, certain items can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, leading to costly drain disasters.
To help you avoid such issues, we have compiled a list of 10 things you should never put down your sink. By following these guidelines, you can maintain a healthy plumbing system and prevent unnecessary expenses.
Cooking Oil & Grease
Pouring cooking oil and grease down your sink may seem convenient, but it can cause major clogs. As these substances cool, they solidify and cling to the interior of your pipes, narrowing the passageway for water flow. Dispose of cooking oil and grease in a sealed container and throw it in the trash instead.
Coffee Grounds
While it's tempting to rinse coffee grounds down the sink, they can accumulate in your drains and form blockages. Instead, dispose of coffee grounds in the trash or use them as compost for your garden.
Eggshells
Although eggshells may seem harmless, they can create tiny granular deposits that accumulate in your pipes and cause blockages. Dispose of eggshells in the trash or use them as fertilizer for your plants.
Pasta & Rice
When pasta and rice come into contact with water, they expand. This expansion can lead to clogs in your drains. Dispose of excess pasta and rice in the trash or compost them if possible.
Fibrous Vegetables
Fibrous vegetables like celery, asparagus, and onion skins can wrap around the blades of your garbage disposal, causing it to jam. Dispose of these items in the trash or compost them.
Chemical Drain Cleaners
While it may be tempting to use a chemical drain cleaner to unclog your sink, these products can damage your pipes and harm the environment. Instead, opt for natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar or call a professional plumber.
Paint & Solvents
Pouring paint and solvents down your sink can contaminate the water supply and harm the environment. Dispose of these substances responsibly by taking them to a local hazardous waste facility.
Medications
Flushing medications down the sink can introduce harmful chemicals into the water supply. Instead, check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for proper disposal methods.
Wet Wipes & Paper Towels
Even if they claim to be "flushable," wet wipes and paper towels do not break down like toilet paper. Flushing these items down the sink can lead to blockages and damage your plumbing system. Dispose of them in the trash instead.
Hair
Hair is a common culprit for drain clogs. Use a drain strainer to catch hair and dispose of it in the trash. Regularly clean the strainer to prevent buildup.
Contact Dailey Company, Inc.
By avoiding these 10 common items, you can significantly reduce the risk of drain disasters in your home. However, if you encounter persistent clogs or plumbing issues, it's best to seek professional help. At Dailey Company, Inc., we specialize in handling drain disasters and providing top-notch drain cleaning services in College Station, TX.
Contact us today for expert assistance and ensure a smoothly functioning plumbing system for years to come!