Emergency plumbing services are a crucial lifeline when faced with unexpected issues in your home’s plumbing. One common cause of plumbing emergencies is the improper disposal of certain items.
In fact, flushing certain items can lead to a clogged toilet, damaged sewage systems, and harm to the environment. Let’s look at five items you should never flush and why proper disposal is crucial.
Baby Wipes
Many baby wipes are labeled as “flushable,” but they don’t break down as easily as toilet paper. When flushed, they can accumulate in pipes and contribute to blockages. Instead, dispose of baby wipes in the trash to prevent plumbing issues.
Feminine Hygiene Products
Tampons and pads are not designed to break down in water. Flushing them down the toilet can result in clogs and damage to sewage systems. Wrap them in a small bag or tissue and dispose of them in the trash to keep your plumbing in good shape.
Dental Floss
Dental floss might seem harmless, but it can wrap around other debris in the pipes, creating a net that causes blockages. Throw used dental floss in the trash to avoid potential plumbing headaches and the need for residential plumbing repairs.
Cotton Swabs and Cotton Balls
Though they may seem soft and easily flushable, cotton swabs and balls can accumulate in pipes, leading to clogs. Dispose of them in the trash to prevent calling for emergency plumbing services and protect your drainage system.
Medications
Flushing expired or unused medications down the toilet can have harmful effects on the environment. Pharmaceuticals can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic life. Instead, follow proper disposal methods recommended by your local pharmacy or community.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Preventing Plumbing Issues
Flushing inappropriate items can lead to clogged toilets, backups, and expensive plumbing repairs. By disposing of items in the trash or through proper channels, you can save yourself from the hassle and cost of fixing plumbing problems.
Protecting the Environment
Many items that should not be flushed can have detrimental effects on the environment, leading to sewage-related. From contaminating water sources to harming marine life, responsible disposal helps protect our ecosystems and contributes to a healthier planet.
Maintaining Municipal Sewage Systems
Municipal sewage systems are not equipped to handle certain materials. Responsible disposal ensures that these systems can operate efficiently, reducing the risk of overflows and environmental contamination.
Taking a moment to consider what you flush down the toilet can save you from costly plumbing repairs and contribute to environmental protection.
Keep an eye out for what you flush to avoid clogged toilets, maintain efficient sewage systems, and prevent harm to aquatic ecosystems.
If you find yourself facing plumbing issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to FlowPro Plumbing for your emergency plumbing services. Our team of experts provides efficient solutions for all your plumbing needs!
Contact us today for residential plumbing services in Lake Zurich.
