Ever heard of running hot water down the drain after you pour your used cooking grease into the drain because the hot water will keep the grease from clogging the pipes? Do you often rinse your dinner plates directly in the sink, food debris and all? Do you flush baby wipes down the toilet?
All of these are just a few of the common myths that homeowners believe about their home's plumbing. The plumbing system in your home requires special care and regular maintenance in order to run efficiently and remain reliable.
Many homeowners believe that just about everything is flushable. However the truth is that paper towels, makeup, baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, and kitchen waste should all be disposed of using your green bin. A simple rule to keep your toilet free of clogs is to only put in waste and paper that readily dissolves in water. In addition, regular cleaning of your toilet will help to keep it working properly.
Using a Plunger
Another myth is that plungers are the go-to tool for drain and toilet clogs. However, the actual truth is that while plungers can be a helpful tool for some clogs; in some cases a plunger can actually cause more damage by pushing an obstruction further down the pipe. For bulky objects that may have fallen into your drain, try using a claw tool to remove the object.
Drain Cleaners
Drain cleaners will dissolve anything, right? Again, this is a common myth many homeowners believe. The reality is that the chemicals found in many drain cleaners can actually be quite damaging to your home's pipes. If the clog is persistent and recurring, your best course of action is to contact a plumber. A licensed plumber has the experience and equipment to deal with clogs while not causing further damage to the pipes in your home.
Grease Buildups in Pipes
Can just a little grease still cause a clogged pipe? Yes, it can! Grease builds up in pipes over time just like the plaque on your teeth builds up over time. The result of grease buildup is a clogged pipe. Sometimes the clog can be more severe and actually clog the sewage pipes outside your home. This type of damage can be costly and time-consuming to repair. Grease along with other food waste can be disposed of safely in your organic or green bin. Never pour grease down the sink. For easy disposal, pour the grease into an empty milk carton (with the plastic spout removed). Once the carton is full; dispose of it in your green bin.
Calling a Plumber
Another all too common myth is that you only need to call a plumber when there is a big problem. However, just like your car requires regular maintenance so does the plumbing system in your home. Scheduling an appointment for a plumber to perform preventative maintenance is a smart thing to do. Regular maintenance can avoid bigger problems and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. This gives you peace of mind and will save you money down the road.
So if you're faced with a plumbing emergency or just looking to prevent one from happening, contact A. McKenna Plumbing today and our team of experts will be ready to help. We provide plumbing service in the Oakville area.