Things to avoid flushing down the drain – Strict no no’s
Proper disposal of waste is crucial for maintaining a functional domestic plumbing system. Certain common household items can severely damage your plumbing when improperly disposed of via sinks and toilets. Here’s an in-depth look at what not to flush and why.
Items That Should Never Go Down Your Drain
- Coffee Grounds: Often mistaken as safe for drains, coffee grounds easily accumulate in pipes, binding with grease and other substances to create stubborn clogs.
- Grease, Fats, and Oils: These substances solidify in pipes, creating blockages that are difficult to clear and can lead to significant damage over time.
- Eggshells: While seemingly harmless, the granular nature of eggshells can combine with other wastes to form blockages.
- Flushable Cat Litter: Despite being marketed as flushable, cat litter can clog drains and pipes. Additionally, cat feces may contain harmful parasites that are not always eliminated in water treatment processes, posing a risk to marine life.
- Produce Stickers: Small as they are, produce stickers can adhere to the insides of pipes and contribute to clogs, and even disrupt municipal water treatment facilities.
- Flushable Wet Wipes: Contrary to claims, flushable wet wipes do not disintegrate like toilet paper and can bind with grease to form formidable blockages, costing cities millions in repair and maintenance.
The Impact of Improper Waste Disposal
Flushing non-degradable items not only risks personal plumbing issues like blockages and backflows but also places a significant strain on municipal sewer systems. It leads to environmental pollution and costly repairs for both homeowners and city management.
How to Dispose of Problematic Waste Properly
- Solid Waste: Utilize municipal solid waste services or local waste disposal units.
- Hazardous Materials: Contact your local waste management for guidance on disposing of hazardous materials safely.
Preventive Measures and Plumbing Maintenance
Regular maintenance and mindful disposal habits can significantly reduce the risk of plumbing issues:
- Install drain guards to catch solids.
- Regularly clean your plumbing fixtures.
- Schedule routine checks with professionals to ensure your system is clear and functional. Explore our preventive maintenance services.
Understanding what not to flush or pour down your drain is essential for maintaining a healthy plumbing system. By adopting better disposal practices, you can prevent costly repairs and contribute to environmental conservation.
