How to Avoid a Recipe for Plumbing Disaster

Your kitchen and bathroom drains play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and functional home. However, many homeowners unknowingly contribute to plumbing issues by disposing certain items down the drain. In this blog, Billy the Sunshine Plumber will explore the three worst things to put down your drain and how to dispose of these items instead.

1. Grease and Cooking Oils

Pouring grease and cooking oils down the drain may seem convenient at the time, but it’s a recipe for disaster. Because, grease and oils solidify as they cool, creating a sticky, stubborn clog in your pipes. And, over time, this buildup can restrict water flow, leading to slow drains and potential backups.

• Instead: Allow grease and cooking oils to cool in a container, then dispose of them in the trash. And, consider using absorbent materials like paper towels to wipe grease from cookware before washing.

2. Coffee Grounds

Coffee lovers beware – your morning ritual might be contributing to plumbing issues. Because, coffee grounds are notorious for causing clogs in drains. When flushed down the sink, these fine particles can accumulate in pipes, creating a dense mass that water struggles to pass through.

• Instead: Dispose of coffee grounds in the trash or use them as compost for your garden. And, if you have a garbage disposal, make sure to run cold water while grinding coffee grounds to help prevent them from sticking to the pipes. And for more information, check out this the Washington Post’s article on how to prevent plumbing disasters with your garbage disposal.

3. Eggshells

While eggshells may seem harmless, they can wreak havoc on your plumbing. Because, the thin membrane inside the eggshell can wrap around the blades of your garbage disposal, causing it to jam. Additionally, the shell itself can break into small, sharp pieces that contribute to clogs in your pipes.

• Instead Dispose of eggshells in the trash or use them in your compost. And, if you have a garbage disposal, limit the amount of eggshells you put down the drain and run cold water while using the disposal to help prevent clogs.

Avoid the Big 3 to Help Keep Your Drains Flowing Smoothly

By avoiding the three worst offenders – grease and cooking oils, coffee grounds, and eggshells – you can reduce the risk of clogs and backups in your drains. So, practice mindful disposal habits, and your plumbing will thank you with years of trouble-free service. But, if you do run into a problem, the experts at Billy the Sunshine Plumber are here to help. Plus, they have been the Tampa Bay 24-hour plumber of choice since 1924 when he first opened for business. And, they are open 24/7/365 in Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. So, days, nights, weekends, or holidays, Billy the Sunshine Plumber is always there for you.