If you’ve had your drains get maintained before, you might have engaged in a conversation with your plumber regarding things you shouldn’t flush down the drain. You could have easily made a common mistake and done the opposite.
Among the things that you shouldn’t pour down the drain, grease is the one that tops the list. It can do all sorts of damage and despite the warnings, some people are still doing it. If you are still not convinced about the harm that grease can do, then these reasons will perhaps change your mind about it.
1. Cooking grease solidifies as soon as it cools
This means you’re pouring a solid down your drain. You take the time to discard larger food chunks and baked-on scraps before cleaning a pot or pan, and the same (if not more) consideration needs to be given to grease. If you don’t, you’ll be liable to deal with reason number two.
2. It forms a sludge that traps other debris
Just minutes after it’s poured down the drain, you could very well be on your way to a clogged drain. But if the grease alone isn’t enough, the sticky, thick sludge it creates will plug up the trap. Any other debris that goes down the drain can get hung up and contribute to an even bigger problem. Source: Guest Plumbing & HVAC
3. It can create unpleasant odors
Letting any food go down your drain can lead to serious odors. Grease, especially, is known to stink up kitchens when improperly disposed of down a kitchen sink drain. Getting rid of these odors can be nearly impossible since the grease is likely caked in the drains and not going to come off easily.
4. There’s a potential bacteria buildup
When you have this grease and oil building up in your pipes, it also gives bacteria a good place to settle in and harvest. Dirty, clogged pipes are more appealing to bacteria, as well as to pests like gnats and fruit flies, causing a host of unpleasant issues in your kitchen. Source: Sewer & Plumbing
5. Damage to your sewer system
In the event that the grease doesn’t turn solid and goes into the sewer, you will have to deal with another huge problem. Keep in mind that sewers will collect grease and oil from all the surrounding buildings, homes, businesses, restaurants, etc. After some time, fatbergs will develop in the sewer. These consist of waste that is non-biodegradable. Unfortunately, over time, this damages the sewer a great deal and negatively impacts the entire sewer system in the city. Source: VP Plumbing & Heating
To get more tips like this or if you need help with your drains, just give us a call!
Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
168 W 71st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5X 4S7
(604) 360-2114
