7 Plumbing Mistakes You Should Stop Making Today Spokane Valley, Washington

We all have those little habits around the house that seem harmless—until they lead to major plumbing disasters. Here at Gold Seal Plumbing, we understand that some seemingly innocent actions can wreak havoc on your pipes and lead to costly repairs. To help you avoid these common pitfalls, here are seven dangerous things you should stop doing to keep your plumbing system in top shape.

1. Flushing Kitty Litter
It might seem convenient to dispose of kitty litter in the toilet, but this is a major no-no. Kitty litter, especially clumping varieties, contains clay and sand that can quickly clog your pipes. These materials are designed to absorb moisture and form clumps, which can lead to significant blockages and plumbing issues.

2. Rinsing Hair Down the Drain
Hair buildup is a notorious cause of clogs in showers, sinks, and toilets. Even small amounts of hair can create knots and clumps in your pipes, trapping odors and causing serious blockages. Avoid rinsing hair down the drain and consider using a drain catcher to minimize the issue.

3. Disposing of Medication
Pouring medications down the drain or flushing them can be harmful to both your plumbing and the environment. Pharmaceuticals don’t typically damage pipes, but they can contaminate your water supply. Dispose of medications through local pharmacy programs or designated disposal sites.

4. Flushing Tampons and Sanitary Napkins
Tampons and sanitary napkins are not designed to be flushed. The cotton in these products can easily snag and cause blockages. Instead, wrap these items in disposable bags and throw them in the trash to avoid clogs and potential damage to your plumbing system.

5. Pouring Fats and Oils Down the Sink
Just like arteries can get clogged with cholesterol, your pipes can become obstructed by congealed fats and oils. As these substances cool and harden, they create stubborn blockages. Allow fats and oils to solidify and then dispose of them in the trash.

6. Flushing Wet Wipes
Even if they are labeled as “flushable,” wet wipes don’t break down like toilet paper and can lead to severe clogs in your plumbing system. This issue is more prevalent in older infrastructure but can be problematic anywhere. Dispose of wet wipes in the trash to prevent costly repairs.

7. Attempting DIY Plumbing Projects
While DIY projects can be a fun and cost-effective way to handle minor home repairs, plumbing is not the place for amateur work. Simple tasks like changing a showerhead are manageable, but complex issues such as pipe repairs and appliance installations should be left to licensed professionals. Improper DIY repairs can lead to bigger problems and more expensive fixes.

At Gold Seal Plumbing, we’re here to help you navigate these common plumbing challenges. If you’re facing any issues or need professional advice, don’t hesitate to contact us. Your home’s plumbing system will thank you!

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