Common Items That Should Never Go Down Your Drains
Maintaining a well-functioning plumbing system is key to a comfortable and efficient home. For many homeowners, plumbing only becomes a priority when something goes wrong. Yet, issues like clogs, backups, and leaks can be prevented by simply watching what goes down the drain. The convenience of disposal often tempts us to send things like grease, coffee grounds, and paper towels down the sink or toilet. These habits, however, can lead to expensive repairs and unnecessary hassle.
At Titan Plumbing and Electric, we understand how crucial it is to keep drains and pipes flowing smoothly. Serving Tampa, FL, our team of licensed plumbers is here to offer the best practices for keeping your drains clog-free. Below are common items to keep out of your drains, along with some valuable tips for a clog-free plumbing system.
Why Certain Items Should Never Go Down the Drain
Not everything is designed to break down in water. Many common household items don’t dissolve and can easily cause clogs, making it difficult for water to flow freely. As these items build up, they can create blockages that demand professional attention.
To protect your plumbing and avoid unnecessary expenses, here’s a closer look at what should never go down your drains:
1. Diapers and Feminine Hygiene Products
Diapers and feminine hygiene products contain highly absorbent materials that swell with moisture, forming large clumps that can block pipes. Diapers, in particular, should never be disposed of in toilets or drains. Many people are unaware that standard plungers are unlikely to clear such blockages, and clearing them can often require digging into your yard to access pipes. Feminine hygiene products, such as tampons and pads, pose similar risks and should always be disposed of in the trash.
2. Hair and Dental Floss
Hair is notorious for causing clogs, especially in bathroom drains. Made of keratin, hair does not dissolve in water. Instead, it tangles and wraps around other items in pipes, eventually forming blockages that slow water flow or stop it altogether. A good solution is to install drain strainers that catch hair before it slips down the drain. Dental floss is another unexpected culprit. Though it might seem harmless, floss doesn’t break down in water and can bind with other debris, making it difficult for water to flow. Toss used floss in the trash, not the toilet.
3. Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG)
Cooking fats, oils, and grease might seem harmless in liquid form, but once they cool, they solidify and stick to the walls of your pipes. Over time, this builds up and creates blockages that can lead to significant pipe damage and costly repairs. Instead of pouring FOG down the drain, collect it in a container and throw it away once it solidifies. Grease traps are another effective solution for keeping your kitchen drains clean and flowing well.
4. Paper Towels, Cotton Balls, and Wipes
While toilet paper is designed to break down in water, most other paper products do not. Paper towels, cotton balls, wipes, and even “flushable” wipes can clog pipes, causing wastewater to back up into your home. These materials aren’t biodegradable and will often expand rather than dissolve, forming stubborn clogs. Stick to disposing of these items in the trash to avoid a headache later on.
5. Coffee Grounds
Though they might seem small and harmless, coffee grounds are one of the top causes of kitchen drain clogs. When poured down the drain, coffee grounds settle and stick to the sides of pipes, creating a gritty buildup that can harden over time. Instead, throw coffee grounds in the trash or add them to a compost bin. This simple step will help keep your drains clog-free and reduce maintenance needs.
6. Eggshells, Bones, and Hard Food Waste
While garbage disposals are effective for soft food waste, they are not intended for hard items like eggshells, bones, or large chunks of food. These items can jam disposal blades and create blockages in pipes. Garbage disposals can only grind small, soft bits, so when in doubt, throw tougher food waste in the trash. This includes bones, pits, and anything with a tough outer shell.
7. Paint, Cleaning Solutions, and Hazardous Chemicals
While it might seem convenient to dispose of paint and cleaning chemicals down the sink, this can harm your pipes and the environment. Certain chemicals in household cleaners can erode pipe materials over time, especially in older plumbing systems. Additionally, these substances can leach into groundwater, posing risks to local water supplies. Instead, take leftover paint to a hazardous waste disposal site and follow local regulations for disposing of chemicals.
How Titan Plumbing and Electric Can Help with Clogs
At Titan Plumbing and Electric, we’re committed to helping Tampa homeowners keep their plumbing systems in top condition. If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, our team offers several efficient solutions to restore proper drainage and prevent further issues.
1. Video Camera Inspection
A video camera inspection is an excellent way to locate blockages without invasive techniques. Titan Plumbing and Electric provides this service by inserting a small camera into your pipes, allowing our plumbers to identify the cause and exact location of a clog. This saves time and minimizes damage to your home, offering a convenient and affordable way to maintain your plumbing.
2. Drain Snake Services
A drain snake, also known as a plumbing auger, is a tool used to break up or remove blockages in pipes. Unlike harsh chemicals, which can damage pipes, a drain snake is safe and effective for clearing clogs. Titan Plumbing and Electric’s professional plumbers are trained to use this tool efficiently, allowing us to restore your pipes to optimal condition. Don’t risk damage from DIY chemicals – rely on our drain snake services to get the job done right.
3. Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting uses high-pressure water to blast away buildup in pipes. It’s one of the most effective ways to remove grease, mineral deposits, and other stubborn residues without damaging your plumbing. Hydro jetting is safe for most plumbing systems and is ideal for deep clogs and long-lasting results. Reach out to Titan Plumbing and Electric for a thorough hydro jetting service to keep your drains in perfect condition.
When to Call Titan Plumbing and Electric for Help
Understanding what not to put down your drains is the first step to preventing costly plumbing issues. However, accidents happen, and if you’re dealing with a clog that just won’t budge, Titan Plumbing and Electric is here to help. Our licensed plumbers are equipped to handle all types of drain and pipe issues, from minor clogs to more complex repairs.
With our 24/7 emergency plumbing services, you don’t have to worry about getting stuck with a plumbing issue overnight or on weekends. If you have questions about what’s safe to put down your drains or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 813-933-8010.
Preventing Future Clogs with Regular Maintenance
Prevention is key to a smooth plumbing system. Titan Plumbing and Electric offers routine maintenance services to help keep your pipes and drains in excellent condition. Scheduling annual inspections allows our team to catch minor issues before they turn into major repairs, saving you time, stress, and money in the long run.
Our maintenance services include:
- Checking for early signs of clogs and blockages
- Inspecting for leaks or corrosion in pipes
- Performing drain cleaning to clear minor buildups
- Replacing worn or damaged pipes
By being mindful of what goes down your drains, you can avoid common plumbing problems and maintain a hassle-free home. From diapers and hair to coffee grounds and grease, keeping these items out of your pipes is crucial. When a clog does arise, Titan Plumbing and Electric is here for Tampa homeowners with professional, reliable services to resolve any plumbing issue quickly and efficiently.
Let us help you keep your drains flowing smoothly and protect your home’s plumbing. For any plumbing needs, contact Titan Plumbing and Electric at 813-933-8010. Our dedicated team is always ready to provide you with expert service and peace of mind!
