Hello, my name is Lelani O’Malley. Welcome to my website about keeping your plumbing system in great shape. When I bought my first home, I was shocked to learn that it was built in the early 1900s. Another shocking discovery awaited as I learned that the plumbing system remained from its original build. Upon learning those facts, I dedicated my time to learning how to keep that system in great condition. I developed this website to bring that knowledge to you as well. I want to help all my readers maintain their existing plumbing system for years to come. Thank you for coming by.
Keep Your Sewer Lines Flowing
Have you ever stopped to think about what a luxury it is to have indoor plumbing? Try to imagine what past generations had to go through just to use the bathroom. Do you know what needs to be done to keep your sewer lines in working condition so that you aren't stuck without proper plumbing like your ancestors? If you fail to give those lines some thought from time to time, they could eventually begin to cause you all sorts of problems.
What You Shouldn't Flush or Send Down the Drains
Knowing what should never go down the drains or be flushed down the toilet is one huge step in protecting your sewer lines. These things include:
Certain Foods – If you have a garbage disposal in your kitchen, you probably dump food scraps down there without giving it a second thought. Most foods are fine, but never send egg shells, bones, or coffee grinds down through the system
Grease and Oil – Automotive and cooking oils should always be disposed of properly and never sent into the sewage system.
Personal Hygiene Products – Feminine or baby hygiene products should never, ever be flushed down the toilet as they will clog the pipes very quickly.
Wipes – Even if the wipes are advertised as being flushable, don't flush them. They are hard on the pipes and hard on the sewage processing system.
Cat Litter – Again, even if it is advertised as being flushable, bag it and put it in the trash instead.
Medication – Always take unused, unneeded medication to your local pharmacy for proper disposal. Medication will make its way to the sewage treatment center and may not get processed out as it should.
Paint, Nail Polish, Turpentine, Caustic or Acidic Solutions – Always follow the manufacturers' instructions for disposing of these types of items.
Know the Sewer Lines
You should know exactly where the sewer lines are located in your yard and how old they are. Knowing these things will help you determine if repairs or preventative measures need to be taken. Some older sewer lines are made of clay and can begin to crumble and fail with time.
If you know where the lines are, you will also be able to monitor the ground condition and the plant life around them. You don't want trees growing near the lines: the roots could eventually rupture or clog the lines.
Talk with a professional plumbing company like Brad's Plumbing to learn more about taking care of the sewer lines for your home.