Don’t Put These Things Down a Drain!

Homeowners taking care of their plumbing systems should also know what not to put down the drain. Even items that appear innocuous can cause significant problems for the plumbing system if allowed to go down a drain. 

This article discusses some of these problematic items.

Cooking grease and oil

Greasy buildup can adhere to pipes’ walls, causing clogs and eventual pipe damage. Pouring hot grease down the drain may seem like an excellent way to get rid of it, but it will only solidify once it cools off and cause even more problems. So instead, pour the grease into an empty can and throw it in the trash.

Food waste

No food waste should go down the drain. Even if pans, pots, and plates are rinsed well, food waste will eventually cause clogs. To avoid this problem, scrape food waste into the trash can before washing the dishes. If a garbage disposal unit has been installed, run cold water and avoid putting hard-to-grind items like celery or eggshells down the drain.

Coffee grounds

Most people think coffee grounds can go down the drain because they are small and easily washed away. However, over time coffee grounds can build up and create clogs. To avoid this problem, dispose of coffee grounds in the trash instead of washing them down the sink. 

Hair 

Hair can quickly become tangled around soap scum, food waste, and other debris flowing through the pipes. Invest in a hair catcher for the shower or bathroom sink to keep hair out of the drain. In addition, clean the drains regularly with a plunger or plumber’s snake to remove any hair trapped in the pipes.

Soap scum

Soap scum buildup can cause significant drainage issues. To prevent soap scum from clogging the drains, use a plumbing vent to help air circulate through the pipes and dissolve soap scum before it can harden on the walls. Regularly cleaning drains with a plunger or plumber’s snake will also help remove any soap scum in the pipes.

Medication

Many people are unaware that dumping medication down the drain can negatively affect the environment. 

When medication is flushed down the toilet or poured down the sink, it enters the water supply. From there, it can end up in lakes, rivers, and oceans. Fish and other aquatic creatures can be exposed to the medication and end up in the food chain.

In addition, medication dumped down the drain can end up in drinking water. As a result, it is essential to dispose of medication properly. The best way to do so is to take advantage of local drug take-back programs. These programs provide a safe and responsible way to dispose of unwanted or expired medication.

Don’t take chances!

It’s crucial to maintain high drainage standards and not take any chances. If there’s something that looks like it could be a problem, call a professional plumbing service right away. 

A little prevention now can prevent many headaches and later expensive repairs.


Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.