When it comes to your Sierra Madre home, one of the most important systems to look after is your plumbing. The drain may seem like an easy way to dispose of various kinds of waste, but there are some things that should be kept off-limits unless you want to deal with a preventable plumbing disaster. After reading up on some of the worst offenders, find out where to get reliable professional drain cleaning services and inspections near you.
Grease and Cooking Oils
While it might seem like an easy solution to pour leftover grease from cooking down the sink, this is a huge no-no. Grease and oils can congeal and harden as they cool, creating a thick sludge that can clog your pipes. It doesn’t matter if it seems too little to make a difference in the moment because the buildup that occurs over time can completely block the flow of water, leading to frustrating and costly plumbing issues.
Even though grease and oil may seem liquid when hot, they solidify once they cool down, forming stubborn clogs. The best thing to do is to dispose of these substances in the trash, using a container to transport the liquid after it’s been cooled.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee lovers, take note! While dumping your coffee grounds down the drain may seem like a quick cleanup solution, it’s actually a recipe for disaster. Coffee grounds may seem like a natural and harmless substance, but they are notorious for creating blockages because they don’t actually dissolve in water. Instead, they clump together, and when combined with grease or soap scum, they can create a sticky mess that’s hard to remove once it’s far down in your pipes.
The best way to dispose of coffee grounds is to throw them in the compost or trash, or even use them in your garden as fertilizer for an eco-friendly solution!
Food Scraps
You may be thinking that food scraps will just break down in the drain, especially if you have a garbage disposal. However, some foods can still cause major issues like pasta, rice, or potato peels that can expand when they hit the water. When they expand, they can cause clogs in your pipes. Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, or fruit peels can tangle up with other debris and block the flow of water.
Instead of sending food scraps down the drain, use the trash can for proper disposal that’ll save your drain and keep you from the cost of expensive repairs.
Cleaning Products
Harsh chemicals used for cleaning, such as bleach and other strong solutions, should never be poured down the drain. While these chemicals may seem like a quick way to clean and disinfect your pipes, they can actually cause long-term damage to your pipes and the ecosystem. Over time, these chemicals can erode the interior of your pipes and cause corrosion, which can lead to leaks and expensive repairs. Hydro-jetting is a safe and chemical-free way of flushing out your pipes offered by your local plumbers in Sierra Madre.
Medication and Pharmaceuticals
While it may seem like a harmless task to flush old medications down the toilet, this can have serious environmental consequences. Medications can seep into the water supply and harm wildlife, plants, and ecosystems. Flushing pharmaceuticals can also lead to clogs in the plumbing system. To dispose of medications properly, look for a local medication disposal program or take them to a pharmacy that offers drug take-back services.
Paints and Solvents
When cleaning up after a painting project, it can be tempting to rinse your brushes or dispose of leftover paint in the sink. However, paints and solvents contain toxic chemicals that can contaminate the water supply and harm the environment. These substances also contribute to clogs and may damage your pipes over time. Instead of pouring paint down the drain, check with your local waste management services for proper disposal methods for paints and solvents. Many areas offer special collection programs for hazardous waste like these.
Fruit and Vegetable Peels
While fruit and vegetable peels may seem harmless enough, they can actually cause significant issues when disposed of in the sink. Peels from tough-skinned fruits like bananas, avocados, and oranges, as well as vegetables like carrots or potatoes, can be difficult to break down in water and often end up clogging the pipes even with a garbage disposal system. Those blades can only do so much, after all.
Instead of sending peels down the drain, use a compost bin or trash can to dispose of them properly. If you’re into gardening, composting is a great way to recycle these scraps and reduce waste.
How Routine Drain Cleaning Keeps Your Pipes in Top Shape
Regular maintenance and occasional drain cleaning are essential to keeping your plumbing system in great condition. Clogs can develop over time, even if you’re careful about what goes down the drain. If you notice slow drains or foul odors coming from your sink or shower, it might be time to schedule a professional drain cleaning service.
Professional plumbers have the tools and expertise to clear out stubborn blockages, remove debris, and prevent future clogs from forming. Some plumbers offer effective hydro-jetting services that use high-pressure water to push out debris that could be lingering in your pipe system. They can also inspect your pipes for any signs of damage or wear, ensuring that your system is running as smoothly as possible.
Be sure to seek out a reputable plumbing company for the best results. Highly rated plumbers in Sierra Madre can provide everything from routine drain cleaning to more intensive repairs, leaving you with peace of mind and a plumbing system that’s functioning at its best.
Trust GEM Plumbing For Routine Drain Services In Sierra Madre
At GEM Plumbing, we’re dedicated to ensuring your plumbing stays in top shape by offering hydro-jetting and drain inspections in Sierra Madre and the surrounding areas! Whatever your home needs, our team is here to provide reliable, professional service. Don’t let plumbing issues disrupt your day, contact us today at 626-355-3496 for a free quote on our services or to schedule a consultation!