The plumbing system is one of the most taken-for-granted components of our homes until it starts to cause problems. Many plumbing problems, such as clogged toilets, backed-up sinks, and so on, can be avoided, which is excellent news. Keep your plumbing happy and save money on repairs by being careful about what you flush down the toilet.
In order to preserve your plumbing in good working order, here are five things you should never put down the toilet or wash down the drain.
1. Feminine Hygiene Products
Tampons and other feminine hygiene products should never be flushed down the toilet. This includes sanitary pads. The reason for this is that the materials in question are not biodegradable, and as a result, they have the potential to create significant issues with your pipes. These products have a risk of becoming lodged in the plumbing and causing clogs if they are flushed down. These obstructions can, if left untreated for an extended period of time, do severe damage to your plumbing system.
2. Wet Wipes
Wet wipes have become increasingly popular in recent years, but they should never be flushed down the toilet. Even wipes that are labelled as “flushable” may still cause problems for your plumbing. This is because these wipes do not break down the same way toilet paper does. Instead, they can get stuck in the pipes and cause clogs. Over time, these clogs can even cause sewage backups in your home.
3. Cooking Oil
Another thing that should never be flushed down the toilet or poured down the drain is cooking oil. When oil used for cooking is flushed down the toilet or sink, there is a significant risk that it will congeal and produce obstructions in the plumbing system. These blockages can cause considerable damage to your plumbing system over time and even cause sewage to back up into your home if left untreated. It is recommended that used cooking oil be thrown away in the garbage rather than being poured down the sink drain.
4. Dental Floss
It is important to remember that dental floss is another item that must never go down the toilet. The reason for this is that it is not made from natural materials, and it has the potential to become caught up in plumbing systems. The proper way to get rid of dental floss is to throw it away rather than throwing it down the drain or flushing it down the toilet.
5. Medications
Medications, such as prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines, should never be flushed down the toilet. The reason for this is that these medications can contaminate the water supply and harm the environment. Instead of flushing medications down the toilet or putting them down the drain, they should be disposed of properly. Many pharmacies and hospitals have programs in place to safely dispose of medications, so be sure to check with your local pharmacy or hospital to find out how to dispose of your medications safely.
Conclusion
There are many items that should never be flushed down the toilet. Feminine hygiene products, wet wipes, cooking oil, dental floss, and medications are just a few examples. By being cautious, you can help prevent serious plumbing problems and protect the environment. If you do experience plumbing problems, it’s important to contact a professional plumber as soon as possible to avoid further damage and costly repairs.
If you are looking for a company that does residential plumbing in Oshawa, look no further than our services here at Hayes Plumbing. Located in the heart of Oshawa, we are one of Durham Region’s most trusted and experienced plumbing companies. Call us today and let us clear your clogged drains and toilets in no time!
