What Not to Put Down Your Drain in Keyport, NJ: A Guide

A well-functioning drainage system is crucial for maintaining a clean and comfortable home. One effective way to keep your drains in good working condition is to avoid disposing of items and substances that can cause blockages or damage to your plumbing system.

In this article, we'll share expert advice from Apollo Sewer & Plumbing professionals on common items and substances that you should never put down your drain. By becoming aware of these potential hazards and adopting proper disposal methods, you can protect your plumbing system and prevent costly repairs in your Keyport, NJ home.

With our valuable tips and insights, you'll ensure a hassle-free drainage system that can efficiently serve your household for years to come.

1. Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG)

Fats, oils, and grease, commonly referred to as FOG, should never be poured down the drain. When these substances cool and solidify, they can cause blockages and buildup in your pipes. Over time, this accumulation restricts the flow of water and may lead to sewer backups, pipe damage, or even environmental pollution.

Instead of pouring FOG down the drain, collect it in a heat-resistant container and let it cool. Once solidified, dispose of it in the trash or visit a local recycling center that accepts grease for proper disposal. Additionally, use paper towels to wipe residual grease from cooking utensils, pots, and pans before washing them.

2. Coffee Grounds

Many people mistakenly believe that coffee grounds can safely be washed down the sink. However, coffee grounds can easily accumulate in pipes and form stubborn blockages over time. According to a study conducted by the Water Research Foundation, coffee grounds are one of the leading contributors to drain blockages in homes.

To dispose of used coffee grounds, place them in your trash or add them to your compost bin. They can be a valuable addition to compost as they help enrich the soil and provide essential nutrients for plant growth.

3. Eggshells

Eggshells can cause plumbing issues when washed down the drain, as their jagged edges can catch on pipe walls and create buildup. Additionally, the crushed shells tend to create small granules that can adhere to FOG already present in pipes, further worsening the blockage.

Instead of flushing eggshells down the sink, discard them in the trash, or add them to your compost heap. They are rich in calcium and other nutrients that can benefit compost and contribute to healthy plant growth.

4. Flushable Wipes and Other Hygiene Products

Despite claims made on their packaging, "flushable" wipes are not truly safe for your plumbing system. These wipes do not break down as quickly as toilet paper and can become lodged in your pipes, leading to costly clogs and repairs. The same goes for other hygiene products like facial tissues, cotton swabs, and feminine hygiene products. These items are not designed to disintegrate in water and can cause significant blockages in your plumbing system.

Always dispose of wipes and hygiene products in the trash, regardless of packaging claims. Only flush human waste and toilet paper to protect your plumbing system from avoidable damage.

5. Certain Types of Food Waste

Food waste should generally be kept away from your drains, even if you have a garbage disposal. Certain food items can stick to pipes, form clogs, or damage your garbage disposal. Here are a few examples of problematic food waste to avoid putting down the drain:

- Fibrous foods: Celery, corn husks, and onion skins can wrap around the blades of your garbage disposal, causing it to jam and potentially break down.

- Starchy foods: Foods like rice, pasta, and potato peels can absorb water and expand, leading to blocked pipes.

- Fruit pits and seeds: These hard items can be difficult for your garbage disposal to grind, and they may cause damage to the blades.

To dispose of these types of food waste, use a composting system or toss them in your trash.

6. Harsh Chemicals

Chemical drain cleaners and other harsh chemicals can do more harm than good when poured down the drain. Some of these products can corrode pipes, damage your septic system, and harm the environment. In Keyport, NJ, and surrounding areas, it's essential to be mindful of chemical use, as they can potentially contaminate water sources.

Instead of using chemical drain cleaners, try using natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar to help break down minor clogs. For persistent or severe blockages, consider contacting a plumbing professional like Apollo Sewer & Plumbing for a safe and effective solution.

7. Medications

Flushing unused or expired medications down the drain is not only harmful to your plumbing system, but it can also contaminate water sources and negatively impact the environment. Many medications are not fully removed during water treatment processes and can enter water supplies, posing risks to aquatic life and public health.

Dispose of unwanted medications safely by visiting a local drug take-back program, pharmacy, or police station that offers drop-off sites for medication disposal. These facilities will ensure the drugs are properly handled and disposed of, minimizing the environmental impact.

Proper disposal of these items is crucial to maintaining a healthy and well-functioning plumbing system in your Keyport, NJ home. By following expert advice from Apollo Sewer & Plumbing professionals, you can avoid plumbing issues, save money on repairs, and do your part in protecting the environment.

Keep Your Drains Clear with Expert Assistance from Apollo Sewer & Plumbing

Knowing what not to put down your drain is essential to maintaining a smooth-running, problem-free plumbing system in your Keyport, NJ home. By practicing proper disposal habits, you can prevent costly clogs, pipe damage, and potential environmental harm.

If you experience persistent or severe drain blockages despite following these guidelines, don't hesitate to contact the experienced professionals at Apollo Sewer & Plumbing. Our team is dedicated to providing prompt, reliable, and high-quality sink and drain plumbing services to ensure your plumbing system functions at its best.

Contact Apollo Sewer & Plumbing today to schedule a drain cleaning, maintenance, or repair service and get expert advice on keeping your drains in tip-top condition!