We all rely on our drains to keep water flowing smoothly throughout our homes, but sometimes, without realising it, we’re actually contributing to the very blockages that cause slow drains or even full-on clogs. From small habits that seem harmless to bigger mistakes we make under pressure, these five drain mistakes could be wreaking havoc on your plumbing. Read on to find out if you’re guilty of any of these slip-ups—and how to avoid them for a smoother, blockage-free home!
1. Pouring Grease and Oil Down the Sink
It’s tempting to pour leftover cooking oil, butter, or grease down the sink after cooking, but this is one of the worst things you can do for your drains. Grease doesn’t just vanish—it solidifies as it cools, forming a sticky layer that coats the inside of your pipes and narrows them over time. This can lead to severe clogs and slow drainage, especially in the kitchen sink.
How to Fix It: Instead of pouring grease down the sink, save an old jar or container to dispose of it. Once it’s cooled, throw it in the bin. You can also take it to a local recycling centre where it can be reused for biodiesel. If you do have a blockage from grease and oil, contact FS Drainage for professional help.
2. Flushing Wet Wipes, Paper Towels, and Other Non-Flushables
Many people make the mistake of flushing wet wipes, paper towels, or even cotton balls down the toilet, thinking they’ll just dissolve like toilet paper. The reality is that these items don’t break down and can quickly clog up your pipes. Even so-called “flushable” wipes can cause problems—don’t be fooled!
How to Fix It: Always dispose of wet wipes, paper towels, and similar items in the bin, not the toilet. Keep a small waste bin in your bathroom to make this easy. Your plumbing will thank you!
3. Ignoring Hair Build-Up in Bathroom Drains
One of the most common drain mistakes happens in the bathroom, where hair can quickly accumulate in shower and sink drains. Even a small amount of hair, combined with soap scum and oils, can form a dense clog that’s difficult to clear. Before you know it, your drains are slow, and the water’s not going anywhere.
How to Fix It: Install a drain cover to catch hair before it can get into your pipes. Also, regularly clean your drains by removing any hair build-up from the surface or using a drain cleaning solution. It’s a quick fix that’ll save you a lot of hassle down the line.
4. Pouring Food Scraps Down the Sink
Washing food scraps down the sink is a common habit, especially after a meal or when cleaning up. However, fibrous foods like potato peels or pasta, as well as starchy substances, don’t break down easily and can get stuck in pipes. Over time, these bits of food can combine with grease, leading to bigger blockages.
How to Fix It: Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps, and dispose of them in the bin or compost them. It’s a simple step that will help keep your drains clear and your pipes running smoothly.
5. Using Harsh Chemical Drain Cleaners
When faced with a slow drain, many people reach for harsh chemical drain cleaners to clear the blockage. While these products can seem like a quick fix, they can actually damage your pipes over time, especially if used repeatedly. They can also release harmful chemicals into the environment, which is not ideal for your plumbing or the planet.
How to Fix It: Instead of chemical drain cleaners, opt for natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar. You can also use a plunger or drain snake to clear minor blockages. Regular maintenance with eco-friendly solutions will keep your drains in tip-top shape without causing damage.
Why You Need to Be Careful with PVC Pipes
Do you want to try some DIY drainage methods that you’ve seen online? These can be tempting, as they’re always said to be easy and cheap ways to solve problems. However, you have to really consider what you’re doing and the impact this can have on your pipes. This is particularly true if they’re made from PVC. This is a cost-effective material, but it’s one that can be damaged over time with the wrong methods. Let’s take a closer look at why you need to be careful with DIY methods and PVC pipes.
High Temperatures Can Warp
There are many methods out there that suggest using boiling water to help clear blockages. However, this is something that you must avoid when you’ve got PVC pipes. High temperatures can weaken this material, making it soft, which can lead to warping. In some cases, the material can even melt, which is going to cause leaks and a lot of other problems.
Strong Chemicals Can Melt
It’s common for homeowners to find drain-unblocking products in their local stores when they have an issue. After all, these bottles claim they can break down any substances and clear the pipes. However, PVC pipes and strong chemicals don’t mix. Instead, these chemicals can melt the material and weaken it over time. In particular, you should stay away from sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide.
Conclusion
Now that you’re aware of these common drain mistakes, it’s time to make some simple changes to keep your plumbing working smoothly. From pouring grease down the sink to using harsh chemicals, small adjustments can prevent big problems. By being more mindful of what you put down your drains, you’ll be able to avoid costly repairs and enjoy better drainage throughout your home.
