Never Put These Down the Drain!

Coffee grounds won’t break down in the water.

Even with the garbage disposal, dumping specific substances and objects in the kitchen sink can cause severe plumbing issues in the long run. The same goes for every drain in the house. Although drain disposal might seem the quickest and most convenient route, these everyday items shouldn’t go near the household plumbing. 

Flushable products

Although marketed as flushable, most of these products don’t dissolve easily, leading to a clog in the drains and severe consequences for the septic system. Some of the most common culprits include flushable cat litter and flushable wipes.

Coffee grounds

Coffee grounds seem small enough to quickly flush down the kitchen sink without getting stuck in the pipes. Unfortunately, this is not an accurate view. Coffee grounds won’t break down in the water. Instead, they’ll clump together and likely cause a clog in the kitchen pipes.

Cooking fat

Although grease, oil, and fat take a liquid form when hot, they will eventually cool down and harden into a coagulated substance that coats the drains. While this layer is dangerous, it also acts as a binder for other items, such as eggshells. As a result, the greasy mass will keep growing until it completely clogs the pipes.

Produce stickers

Produce stickers seem harmless due to their size. However, these little troublemakers don’t dissolve in water and easily stick to the insides of the pipes. So, besides the house plumbing system, they can affect the equipment in the local water treatment plant by blocking its screens.

Paper products

Many people dispose of cotton balls, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products in the toilet without giving it much thought. But unlike toilet paper, these items can’t dissolve instantly. In addition, they are designed to absorb liquid, which can only spell trouble in the pipes.

Condoms

Since the latex used to create condoms is designed to prevent fluids from escaping, it won’t break down or dissolve in water. So, instead of moving through the pipes, it will likely get stuck, leading to a dangerous latex buildup that can result in a failing septic system.

Cleaning fluids

Household cleaning products, such as bleach, can impact the plumbing system in several ways. First, they can react with other substances going down the drain, thus creating dangerous results and toxic fumes. More potent chemicals can damage the pipes. These fluids can leak into the household water supply. 

Protect the drains

Paying attention to what comes into contact with the home’s plumbing system can go a long way toward keeping it in good shape. However, a clogged drain can still happen, making a prompt reaction as crucial as a preventative action. Homeowners who notice an issue with their plumbing system should immediately contact a reliable plumbing service. This way, they can address the problem before it escalates.

Water Wise Plumbing is a local, full-service residential plumbing company serving Las Vegas, Henderson, Paradise, Boulder City, Pahrump, and North Las Vegas. We provide Tankless water heater service, water softeners, water heater flush, leak detection and repair, water line rerouting, pipe installation, hydro-jetting, sewer services, and more. We are family-owned and operated, certified, and insured. We offer flat rate pricing and 24-hour emergency service.Call us today at (702) 605 - 6408