It’s understandable that homeowners want to avoid damaging their plumbing systems, including learning what should and shouldn’t go down drains. Proper usage habits can make a big difference between your system working optimally and experiencing costly, frustrating problems. Knowing how to avoid a clogged kitchen sink can save you significant money, time, and stress.
What Shouldn’t Go Down Drains?
If you’re wondering what not to pour down sink drains, it’s a relatively extensive list, especially in the kitchen. For example, coffee grounds, grease, oil, pits, fibrous vegetables, fruit peels, pasta, and eggshells shouldn’t go down the drain. It’s also important to be careful when you’re cleaning pet bowls that have food left in them. Pet kibble and other pieces can also accumulate in the drain.
There are also many items that shouldn’t go down bathroom drains. Some of them include feminine hygiene products, makeup wipes, “flushable” wipes, cotton balls, and cat litter.
Need help?
608-837-3638What’s Safe to Put Down Drains?
Some homeowners might be surprised to hear that there’s not much that should be going down their drains. In the kitchen, water, beverages, soap, and tiny particles of food scraps can go down the drain. In your toilet, it’s only human waste, reasonable amounts of toilet paper, and water. Water and bath products can go down the shower drains, and items like mouthwash, toothpaste, soap, and water can go down bathroom sinks.
Can Putting the Wrong Items Down Drains Cause Clogs?
Yes, putting certain items down your drains could result in clogs forming. Many items, even something as simple as coffee grounds, can build up and cause blockages. Putting the majority of items in the trash is one of the best sink drain clog prevention tips.
Can Chemical Drain Cleaners Fix the Problem?
Many homeowners reach for chemical drain cleaners to fix clogs caused by debris going down drains. However, this can have negative consequences, including potentially warping PVC pipes or corroding metal ones. Additionally, the cleaners are often ineffective on serious clogs. They may also clear part of the clog but not the entire blockage, which can cause it to easily reform. This could lead to a constant, frustrating cycle of clogs, slow-draining water, and sewer line problems.
What Should I Do if My System Experiences Problems?
Turn to Action Plumbing, Heating, A/C & Electric when you experience clogs and other plumbing issues. Our team has extensive experience diagnosing and fixing a wide range of problems. We can assess the situation and determine the best solution.
Professional drain cleaning is often the go-to remedy for fixing drain clogs. If the situation is serious, we may use a method like hydro jetting. It involves using high-pressure water to remove accumulated debris within your plumbing pipes. This includes both blockages and debris that’s built up on the interior walls of your pipes. It’s an excellent way to restore your system’s functionality, eliminate odors, and prevent future clogs from forming.
A professional plumbing inspection is the best way to determine if there’s any damage to your system from putting items down the drain. Action Plumbing, Heating, A/C & Electric offers high-quality services that can help your system work optimally.
Call us today to schedule an appointment for drain cleaning services in Madison, WI, or the surrounding areas.
