About Plumbers, With Honor

Many homeowners need a plumber sooner or later. Sometimes it is for routine maintenance, but other times, it is for a plumbing problem. Fortunately, you can avoid some plumbing emergencies by changing some of the habits you and your family may have. Here are a few bad habits that can lead to you calling an emergency plumbing contractor.

1. Flushing Non-Flushable Items

Human waste is the only thing you should ever flush down your commode. You should never flush any of the following:

• Feminine hygiene products
• Personal hygiene wipes
• Baby wipes
• Makeup wipes
• Paper towels
• Cotton pads
• Disposable toilet scrubbers
• Medical waste
• Food

Even if the item is advertised as flushable, avoid sending it down your drain. These items often do not break down quickly enough to safely pass through your plumbing system. These solid items can lead to partially or fully clogged pipes. 

Also, be mindful that small children are often fascinated by the functions of a flushing commode. They will sometimes attempt to flush clothing or small toys. 

2. Dumping Grease Down The Drain

One of the most common kitchen culprits that clog your drains is grease. Greasy items include butter, bacon grease, cooking oils, etc. Even if you have a garbage disposal, you should avoid placing fatty items in it. Grease and fats, while initially soluble, will eventually cool and thicken. They also coat the inside of your pipes and, over time, build up, trapping other organic matter. 

The best way to avoid grease in your drains is to keep a designated container to pour your oil in. Let it cool, and then dispose of it in the trash. Wipe greasy substances off your dishes with a paper towel before washing them. Then dispose of the paper towel in your garbage. 

3. Using Harsh Chemicals

Slow-draining pipes often cause homeowners to run to their nearest big box store to purchase one of the many chemical drain cleaners on the market. While these products may alleviate your problems in the short term, they can cause long-term permanent damage that can lead to calling an emergency plumber. 

For example, one of the most popular drain cleaners on the market contains aluminum, salt, lye, sodium nitrate, and lye. These items cause chemical reactions that dissolve the organic matter causing your clogs.

Unfortunately, when used repeatedly, these same chemicals can cause your commode bowls to crack, your PVC pipes to break, and can dissolve the plumbing glue holding your pipes together. When splashed, they can also cause you physical harm and damage surrounding rugs or flooring.

Contact your local emergency plumbing contractor if you find yourself with a clogged toilet that a plunger does not clear. They will not only clear your clog but will also look for its source. For more info, contact an emergency plumber near you.