Are you making a plumbing mistake that could destroy the longevity and durability of your sewers and drains systems? Your home or business will require a routine drain and sewer maintenance at one point on another, even despite your best efforts to prevent and maintain your current system. Sooner or later that perfect sewer or drain system will develop a problem, however, utilizing your drains in the right way can make the difference between monthly and yearly maintenance or repairs.
Don’t Flush Foreign Objects Down the Toilet!
While it should be common knowledge that only waste and toilet paper should be flushed, accidents happen. Foreign objects of all kinds will end up in the toilet drain at one point or another. However, while it is important to get that dinosaur out of the toilet, let’s focus on some other items that are frequently flushed. the improper flushing of items such as paper towels, feminine hygiene products, food, toys, and jewelry can clog the drainpipe connecting your toilet to the mainline in your sewage system.
Here are a few common items that should never be flushed!
- Baby Wipes
- Feminine Products
- Condoms
- Dental Floss
- Q-Tips and Cotton Balls
Don’t Neglect The Garbage Disposal
The garbage disposal in your kitchen sink should be primarily used to break down food waste into smaller bits that can be safely washed down the drain. However, there are certain foods that can cause damage to your garbage disposal. These items include are note limited to flour, rice, vegetable and fruit peels, bones, and potatoes. For items that will clog or dull the motorized blade in the garbage disposal, it may be ideal to throw these foods in a trash can or use them for compost.
Using The Wrong Drain Cleaner
When it comes to a clogged drain, many homeowners will turn to easily accessible drain cleaners as a cheap solution for their sewer or drain issue. Unfortunately, most homeowners are unaware that common store-bought drain cleaners can do more harm than good to your sewer and drains. In large doses these cleaners can corrode pipes, leading to more severe clogs or leaks. This pipe damage can lead to even pricier repair costs. Instead, it may be in your best interest to call a sewer and drain experts to inspect & thoroughly clean your drains without the use of chemicals. Read our other blog for more information on how drain cleaning products can be hazardous to your sewer & drains!
Using Different Metals to Join Pipes
When different metals such as steel and copper touch, corrosion will occur through galvanic action. Galvanic action is when metal corrodes! This corrosion can lead to leaks at pipe joints and other various forms of pipe damage. Joints using different metal types must be made with a dielectric union or other approved pipe fitting. Knowing which materials to use can be tricky, so your best bet is to call a local drain expert to ensure your pipes are fitted properly!
Trust the Sewer & Drain Experts
For over 37 years Boston Drain Company has provided diagnostics, sewer & drain cleaning, video pipe inspections, sewer line repairs and preventative maintenance options to business owners and residents of Eastern Massachusetts & the Greater Boston Area. For any and all sewer & drain repair/service, call the experts at Boston Drain!
Not sure if you’re needing a full replacement or just a quick fix? For a free quote contact us today via our convenient contact form or call us directly at 617-265-8888!