The plumbing system in every home is one of the most essential modern-day conveniences. However, it is inefficient at disposing of certain items; hence, misusing them can lead to disaster. Flushing specific household items instead of discarding them properly can result in clogged drains, water contamination, and environmental hazards. The American Water public utility company highlights that the pipes have a maximum diameter of just four inches, meaning even small and seemingly harmless items can cause significant plumbing issues.
To avoid the need for costly sewer line inspection and expenses tied to repairing water damage from toilet overflows, prevent a plumbing emergency by following these five tips on what can and cannot be flushed down the drain.
1. Wet Wipes or Flushable Baby Wipes
It's crucial to note that items like flushable baby wipes, wet wipes, and other non-biodegradable products should not be flushed down the toilet. Despite flushable claims, these wipes can cause significant issues in home plumbing and the broader sewer system.
Unlike toilet paper, designed to break down and disintegrate in water, many wipes are made from materials that do not break down quickly. This can lead to clogs in household plumbing, requiring costly repairs. When these wipes are flushed, they can accumulate and create blockages within municipal sewer systems, leading to backups and overflows. To prevent these problems, it's advisable to dispose of flushable baby wipes, wet wipes, and similar items in the trash instead of flushing them.
2. Paper Towels and Tissues
Using paper towels or tissues as a substitute might seem logical in situations without toilet paper. However, it's important to note that paper towels and tissues are designed to absorb a significant amount of liquid and do not break down as quickly as toilet paper. If using paper towels or tissues, dispose of them in a waste basket. Discarding them in a trash can is better than flushing them down the toilet to prevent plumbing issues and maintain a smoothly
3. Feminine Products
Items like sanitary napkins , tampons, maxi pads, and other feminine hygiene products are designed to absorb liquid. In some cases, they can enlarge upon contact with water if flushed, resulting in potential blockages within pipes that guide waste to the sewer or septic systems. This can lead to toilet water backing up and spilling over. To ensure trouble-free plumbing, consistently discard feminine hygiene products in the designated trash receptacle.
4. Cooking Oil, Grease, or Fats
What's inappropriate for your kitchen sink should also be problematic for your toilet. Oils, grease, and fatty substances can harm kitchen plumbing. Despite their liquid state during frying, these substances cool and solidify within pipes, accumulating over time. This buildup can lead to issues like incomplete toilet flushing. To safely dispose of oily or greasy substances, allow them to cool before wiping or discarding them into the trash.
Properly disposing of bandages in a garbage can is essential to prevent potential issues. Some bandages, made from non-biodegradable plastic, can contaminate water systems if flushed down toilets. Additionally, their adhesive can attach to other objects, increasing the risk of clogs. To avoid these problems, discard bandages correctly in a waste bin.
Sewer and drain issues can wreak havoc. Entrusting resolution to any contractor is unwise for efficient sewer service in Atlanta. A temporary fix, preferred by some local providers, is inadequate for sewer line repair or drain cleaning. Engage specialists with expertise in various maintenance and repair challenges - that's why we're here.
Dealing with a clogged drain or need a sewer line inspection? Contact The Pink Plumber. Watch worries disappear; we're the best at what we do. Contact us today.
