There are dozens of helpful plumbing tips out there but not all of them are as helpful as you may think. In fact, many of those common household tips are actually bad for the wear and tear of your plumbing and the environment. It’s time to stop listening to your neighbor, Bill, for plumbing advice and start listening to the professionals.
What are the things your plumber wishes you didn’t do?
Chemicals
Put down the Drano, and no one will get hurt! For years, people have been taught that chemical drain cleaners get the job done. Though they may help break through some of the grime in your plumbing, their side effects are not worth the risk. The powerful chemicals can cause the pipes to start corroding, and that’s not all. Those chemicals interfere with the bacteriological process your sewage treatment plant uses to treat the water and waste. Ask your plumber about some bacteriological cleaner options for you to use.
Waste Basket Syndrome
Using your sink and toilet as another waste basket in your home is never the answer. It may go down your drain, but that doesn’t mean it won’t get stuck somewhere in your pipes along the way. Food, gum, coffee grounds, cat litter, wipes, and more should not be taking a ride down your plumbing. These items can cause clogs in your pipes. You may not notice it at first, but over time you could have some serious blockage issues.
Trusting all Paper Products
All paper products are not flushable. Some labels claim that their products are flushable but if it isn’t toilet paper, don’t flush it. This includes feminine hygiene products, as well. The box may say you can flush them all, but truthfully, the absorbent cotton is rough on your pipes.
Drain Monsters
The massive globs of hair that block your bathroom and shower drains are gross. We know. To prevent these recurring clogs from happening in your bathroom, install a hair catcher in your bathroom sink and shower drain. Another tip for those that tend to shed a lot is to brush your hair before you enter the shower.
Disposal Overload
Garbage disposals do help break down food particles in your sink but they have their limits. Anything that is coarse or greasy should not be put down the garbage disposal. Some of these items include meat, cooking oil, fruit rinds and any plastics or metals.
DIY Happy
It’s great to learn how to fix things on your own. However, when it comes to a plumbing issue, you will save money in the long run by hiring a plumber to make sure the entire issue is resolved and everything is up to code in your home.
Stephen’s Plumbing and Heating, Inc
Remember, it is always best to consult with a professional plumber when you are having plumbing complications. If you are dealing with a plumbing issue or would like to get an estimate for an upcoming project, take a look at our services page or give us a call.