It’s tempting to wash dishes right after cooking, especially if you’ve used oil or fat. However, this seemingly harmless habit could lead to a costly mistake, and the consequences might not be immediate but will become apparent over time. A plumber, @dalrod_, took to TikTok to illustrate this point, highlighting a plumbing issue at a university accommodation. The sink wasn’t draining properly, with water accumulating despite the pipes being functional. He explained that he was going to investigate the pipes underneath, emphasizing that accessing pipes in such a way was rare. Removing the access pipe, he drained the system using a flexible bucket and then proceeded to machine the pipework all the way to the main stack. The plumber explained that the machine offered thorough cleaning, removing any solid particles within the main pipe. After machining, he pulled back the cable, revealing a clump of fat on the end. He then checked the trap for secondary blockages, confirming that it was spotless and free of any issues. Discover Plumbing and Rooter recommends pouring hot water down the drain immediately if oil is accidentally poured, or alternatively using a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. They highlight that pouring oil and fat down the drain can cause serious problems, potentially damaging the draining system. Enva, an environmental services company, suggests letting the oil cool down before transferring it to a sealable container for disposal. Ideally, the container should be non-recyclable. For oils that solidify, they recommend placing the container in the fridge or freezer until it forms a block for easy disposal. Alternatively, you can gradually fill up a container with oil and take it to a local recycling center, where many accept cooking oil waste for free.
Don’t Pour Oil Down the Drain: Plumber Reveals Costly Mistake
