Top 5 Things to Never Put Down Your Drain to Prevent Blockages

Top 5 Things You Should Never Put Down Your Drain to prevent blocked drains

We all rely on our plumbing systems daily, but many people unintentionally damage their drains by disposing of items that don’t belong there. At ACW Drains, we’ve seen firsthand how certain materials cause severe blockages and damage to drains. While it might seem harmless to rinse or flush certain substances away, doing so can lead to costly repairs down the road.

Here’s a guide to the top five things you should never put down your drain, and why being mindful of what goes down your pipes can save you from plumbing headaches.

1. Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG)

Why It’s a Problem: Fats, oils, and grease are notorious for causing blockages in residential and commercial drainage systems. When poured down the drain, they may be liquid, but as they cool, they solidify and stick to the walls of the pipes, causing blockages.

What You Should Do Instead: Let fats, oils, and grease cool in a container before disposing of them in the trash. Better yet, consider recycling them if possible. Many recycling programs accept used cooking oil.

ACW Drains Tip: If you notice slow drainage or bad odors in your kitchen, it could be due to grease buildup. Consider scheduling a professional drain cleaning with us to ensure your drains remain clear. Learn more about our drain cleaning services here.

2. Unflushable Paper Products

Why It’s a Problem: Most people know not to flush paper towels and wipes, but many think “flushable” wipes are safe. In reality, these wipes don’t break down as toilet paper does. They can clog pipes, leading to blockages in your drain system or even damage to the sewage system.

What You Should Do Instead: Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Keep a wastebasket nearby for disposal of wipes, tissues, and other non-flushable items.

ACW Drains Tip: Experiencing a blocked toilet? Our team at ACW Drains is here to help. We specialize in unblocking toilets and drains—contact us to schedule a service today.

3. Coffee Grounds

Why It’s a Problem: Coffee grounds are one of the most common causes of kitchen drain blockages. They tend to clump together and stick to grease or other debris in your pipes, eventually causing a blockage.

What You Should Do Instead: Instead of rinsing coffee grounds down the drain, dispose of them in the trash or add them to your compost pile.

ACW Drains Tip: If you’re experiencing slow drainage in your kitchen, consider scheduling a CCTV drain survey. This service allows us to inspect your pipes and identify any buildup or damage. Learn more about our CCTV drain survey services.

4. Medications

Why It’s a Problem: Flushing old or unused medications down the toilet or sink can be harmful to the environment. These substances can contaminate the water supply, impacting aquatic life and even humans.

What You Should Do Instead: Return unused medications to a pharmacy for safe disposal or follow local guidelines for discarding them. Many areas offer “take-back” programs specifically for medications.

5. Chemical Cleaners and Hazardous Materials

Why It’s a Problem: While chemical drain cleaners are often marketed as a quick fix for blockages, they can corrode your pipes and cause long-term damage to your plumbing system. Similarly, pouring hazardous materials like paint, motor oil, or cleaning agents down the drain can contaminate water supplies and harm the environment.

What You Should Do Instead: Use natural alternatives for clearing drains, such as baking soda and vinegar. For severe blockages, contact professionals like ACW Drains to handle the issue without damaging your plumbing. If you need to dispose of hazardous materials, take them to your local hazardous waste disposal site.

Preventative Measures for Healthy Drains

Maintaining a healthy plumbing system is all about prevention. Here are a few tips to keep your drains in good working order:

• Install drain screens: These simple devices can catch food particles, hair, and other debris before they enter your pipes.
• Flush your drains regularly: Pouring hot water down your drains every week can help dissolve grease and soap scum before they become major problems.
• Schedule regular inspections: Professional inspections and maintenance can prevent issues before they escalate. ACW Drains offers comprehensive inspections and cleaning services to keep your drains functioning smoothly.

External Resources

• Learn more about the environmental impact of improper disposal of household items here.
• For more information on safe medication disposal, visit the FDA's guidelines.
• Find your local hazardous waste disposal facility here.

By following these simple tips and avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep your plumbing in top shape and avoid costly repairs. If you do encounter any drain issues, whether it’s a blocked drain outside or a CCTV drain survey, ACW Drains is here to help.