Certain chemicals and items can damage your plumbing system and result in costly maintenance repairs and clogged drains. As such, you need to monitor what you put down your drain to protect your system. If you notice something wrong, have a professional inspect and repair the problem.

Which Items to Avoid Putting Down Your Drain

1. Paint

Though paint does not physically or structurally damage your plumbing system, it puts toxic chemicals into the local water supply. Many areas have a disposal system for getting rid of excess paint, so there’s no need to pour it down the drain. 

2. Starchy Foods

Foods like rice, pasta, and flour absorb water and expand. This can create a glue-like substance that sticks to the pipes and other debris, increasing the chances of clogged drains. Toss the leftovers in the compost bin instead of washing them down the drain. 

3. Eggshells

Eggshells should be thrown into the compost bin or used as fertilizer for your plants. Throwing them down the drain can damage the blades of the garbage disposal, and the membranes can get caught around the grinding apparatus. Small pieces of eggshell can get stuck in oily or starchy substances that are already inside the pipes, which can cause clogging.

4. Coffee Grounds

Despite their tiny nature, coffee grounds are one of the leading causes of clogged drains. They’re not fully water-resistant, so they secrete an oily substance that mixes with other debris and oil. This mixture coats the lining of your pipes and can impair the efficiency of your plumbing system. Throw these into your compost or use them in your fertilizer. 

5. Oil, Fat, & Grease

Cooking oil, butter, margarine, meat fat, mayonnaise, and other oily substances should be thrown away instead of putting them down your drain. They are the binder for debris and account for much of the country’s sewer overflows. They create water-resistant barriers, which clog drains and can damage your plumbing.

If your commercial or residential plumbing system has a clogged drain, Bohannon’s Plumbing & General Repairs in High Point, NC, provides effective solutions. This family-owned business has over 30 years of experience and offers affordable prices for every project. Learn more about their services like replacements, remodels, and repairs by visiting their website. Call (336) 561-9444 to ask about their senior citizen and military discounts.