Plumbing 101: Basic Dos and Don’ts

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Last Updated: February 25, 2026 — Reviewed by Brian Hayes, Licensed Master Plumber

We all know plumbing is very important and a great necessity in every household. Yet, most homeowners neglect to maintain their plumbing system until eventually, something goes wrong. Keep in mind that your plumbing system can remain in its optimal condition with just a little bit of TLC and regular maintenance. Doing so can prevent you from experiencing plumbing disasters and save you hundreds of dollars in repair and labour, not to mention, it could also save you from a lot of stress and anxiety. So, what are you waiting for? Let us teach you some of the basic dos and don’ts of plumbing:

 

DON’TS:

-Don’t pour cooking oil into your sink. We understand that sometimes it is convenient to just pour all the used up cooking oil in your sink, but this could potentially start clogging up your drainage system

-Don’t keep any trash under your sink. Always avoid placing anything that could rub against your drainage pipe which could potentially cause leaks in the future.

-Don’t pour hot water in the toilet. Maybe you were given an advice by your friend that you can pour hot water down the toilet. Please do not do it! Toilets are not designed to withstand hot water, and if you do pour hot water into it, the bowl might crack.

-Don’t pour coffee grounds in your sink. Even when there is running water, coffee ground eventually may clump up together and cause your pipes to clog up. If you want to get rid of your coffee grounds, throw it in the trash bin instead.

-Don’t place cornhusks, onion skins, celery, or other high-fiber materials in your disposal. It may be tempting to do so, but it is best to avoid this. Such materials can tangle up around the disposal and potentially burn out the motor.

 

DO’S:

-Do grind ice in your disposer. You may think that by doing this can damage the blades, but on the contrary, this actually keeps the blades sharp.

-Do pour two to three gallons of boiling water down the tub an shower drains. Hot water can help prevent the build-up of excess hair and grease. It is advised to do this at least once a month

-Do run cold water down your garbage disposal. By doing this, you are cleaning your drains and pass pesky-buildups.

Just follow these simple tips to keep your plumbing in optimal condition and avoid inconvenient plumbing crisis. If you have any plumbing issues that you need help with, do not hesitate to give us a call today!

Additional Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I call a plumber for plumbing tips?

You should call a licensed plumber for plumbing tips when the issue persists after basic troubleshooting, involves water pressure changes, or requires access to pipes behind walls. Hayes Plumbing serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering.

How much does plumbing tips cost in Durham Region?

The cost of plumbing tips in Durham Region depends on the complexity of the job and parts required. Hayes Plumbing provides upfront pricing before beginning any work so there are no surprises.

Should I try DIY or hire a professional for plumbing tips?

While minor issues can sometimes be addressed with DIY methods, plumbing tips often requires a licensed plumber to ensure the work meets Ontario plumbing code. Hayes Plumbing is fully licensed, WSIB certified, and BBB accredited.

Need help with plumbing repairs or installations? Hayes Plumbing & Bathroom Renovations serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering. Contact us or call (905) 576-3043 for a free estimate.

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