Items You Should Never Put Down Your Drain

6 Worst Items You Can Put Down Your Sink

Did you know that there are certain items you should never put down your drains? It’s true. These substances can cause severe problems for your plumbing and can even lead to costly repairs—even if you use a garbage disposal. In this blog post, we will discuss the eight worst items you can put down your sink.

1. OIL AND GREASE

One of the worst things you can put down your drain is oil or grease. These substances eventually cool and thicken, which will cause your plumbing to become clogged, leading to costly repairs. If you must dispose of oil or grease, be sure to pour it into a sealable container and discard it appropriately.

2. COFFEE GROUNDS

Coffee grounds are another substance that you should never put down your drain. When coffee grounds mix with water, they form a thick blob that can clog your pipes. Instead, dispose of coffee grounds in the trashcan.

3. PAPER TOWELS

Paper towels are another thing never to put down your drain. While it seems like they disintegrate, the truth is that they tend to bunch up and create clogs. Instead, dispose of them in a wastebasket.

4. FOOD WASTE

When you put food waste down your drain, it eventually breaks down and creates a thick sludge that can clog your pipes. To avoid costly plumbing repairs, have a plan to get rid of them elsewhere.

5. PAINT

If you have paint cans that you are no longer using, ensure that you discard them properly. Please do not put them down your sink. Paint can cause serious plumbing problems and can also be a fire hazard.

6. CHEMICALS AND CLEANERS

Do not put chemicals or household cleaners down your drain if you have any to dispose of. These substances can corrode your plumbing and are also harmful to the environment. Be sure to discard them in the proper receptacle or contact your local health department.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU HAVE A CLOG

Accidents happen all the time. If you put one of the six items we’ve mentioned here down your drain and there is a clog, here’s what you need to do:

• If the clog is in your sink, try using a plunger to dislodge it.
• Clogs caused by grease or food waste might become dislodged when you pour hot water down the drain.
• If you can’t dislodge the clog on your own, it’s time to call a plumber.

What happens when a drain is clogged, and why is it so bad for your home’s plumbing?

When water can’t flow freely down the drain, it starts to back up, filling your sink and spilling over onto the floor. This can cause damage not only to your plumbing but also to your flooring and cabinets.

PROFESSIONAL PLUMBING SERVICE IN SAN MATEO, CA

Be proactive and avoid costly plumbing repairs by never putting these items down your sink. However, if you do need our help, our professional and courtesy team at Bell Plumbing is here to assist. We offer a full range of drain cleaning and repair services to suit your needs. Please call 650-206-7672 or use our online form to schedule service.