As humans, we tend to take our drains for granted. We often overlook that they are vital in maintaining hygiene and cleanliness in our homes. However, we must know what we put down our drains, as some substances can cause blockages and damage over time. This article will outline ten things you should never put down your drains to keep them functioning correctly.
1. Cooking Oil and Grease
Cooking oil and grease are common culprits of clogged drains. Although they may appear harmless, when oil and grease cool, they solidify and accumulate in pipes, causing blockages. Instead of pouring oil and grease down the drain, let them cool and solidify in a container, then dispose of them in the trash.
2. Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are another substance that can cause blockages in drains. Although they may seem harmless, coffee grounds do not break down in water and can accumulate in pipes. Instead of flushing coffee grounds down the drain, dispose of them in the trash or use them as compost in your garden.
3. Eggshells
Eggshells are also a common culprit of clogged drains. They tend to stick to the sides of pipes and accumulate over time, causing blockages. Instead of disposing of eggshells down the drain, dispose of them in the trash or use them as compost in your garden.
4. Pasta and Rice
Pasta and rice may seem harmless, but they can expand when they come into contact with water, causing pipe blockages. Instead of disposing of pasta and rice down the drain, dispose of them in the trash or use them as compost in your garden.
5. Wet Wipes
Wet wipes may seem convenient, but they do not break down in water like toilet paper. They can accumulate in pipes and cause blockages, leading to expensive repairs. Instead of flushing wet wipes down the drain, dispose of them in the trash.
6. Medication
Flushing medication down the drain can contaminate the water supply and harm aquatic life. Instead of flushing medication down the drain, dispose of them at a pharmacy or medication disposal event.
7. Paint and Chemicals
Paint and chemicals can harm the environment and should never be flushed down the drain. Instead, dispose of them at a hazardous waste facility or contact your local waste management company for proper disposal.
8. Hair
Hair may seem harmless but can accumulate in pipes and cause blockages over time. Using a drain catcher can help prevent hair from going down the drain. Instead of flushing hair down the drain, dispose of it in the trash.
9. Dental Floss
Dental floss may seem small but can accumulate in pipes and cause blockages. Instead of flushing dental floss down the drain, dispose of it in the trash.
10. Cat Litter
Cat litter should never be flushed down the drain as it can cause blockages and harm aquatic life. Instead, dispose of cat litter in the trash or use biodegradable cat litter.
Conclusion
Maintaining the proper functioning of our drains is crucial for our homes’ overall hygiene and cleanliness. Being mindful of the substances we put down our drains can significantly reduce the risk of blockages and damage. Avoid disposing of those mentioned above and opt for alternative disposal methods to prevent potential problems. By taking these simple precautions, we can ensure our drains remain in good working order, contributing to a cleaner and healthier living environment for ourselves and our families.
Don’t settle for anything less than the best regarding your plumbing needs. Choose GVA Plumbing & Heating Ltd, the experienced plumber in Langley that you can rely on. Contact us now and let our skilled team handle everything for you!
