There are a lot of things that shouldn’t go down your drains. Most of the time, if it isn’t water or human waste, it probably shouldn’t go down. But there are some things that are more common problems in people’s pipes. In this article, we’ll go over 4 of the top things that shouldn’t go down your drains. That way you can prevent most of the things that cause drain problems.
Flammable or Explosive Substances: Do not put flammable or explosive substances down your drain. That can include paints, thinners, lighter fluids, and other chemicals. These substances can react with other elements in the pipes. Even if they don’t combust, they can cause serious damage to the environment. Depending on your area, you may have to dispose of chemicals at a hazardous waste facility.
“Flushable” Wipes: Face wipes and paper towels break down much slower than toilet paper – if they break down at all. They form large blockages that can cause havoc to your own pipes and the main sewer system. Flushing them down the toilet is like flushing strong paper towels. “Flushable” wipes can give homeowners a headache that no plunger can solve. Over time they can build up into clogs.
Eggshells: When you send eggshells down the garbage disposal it grinds them up into small bits. Then they get stuck in grease to create a clog in your pipes. On top of that, they also have membranes that can get wrapped around the grinder. While some garbage disposals can handle eggshells, most sinks can not.
Fats, Oils, or Grease: None of these should ever go down a kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or toilet. They melt into a liquid when hot, but solidify when cool. Then they congeal and can cause a major blockage in your drain. This can cause the entire pipe to become clogged. The best rule of thumb is to place them into a jar or can to allow them to cool and then throw them in the trash.
Avoiding these four things will help a lot with keeping your drains flowing. If you do still have problems, you can call a professional you trust for help. If you don’t know one, Any Hour Services would be happy to help. One of our drain technicians can work with you to find the problem and the right solution for you. You can give us a call or schedule an appointment online.
