Welcome to our “Plumber North Vancouver” blog, where we provide essential tips to keep your plumbing in perfect shape! Today, we’re tackling a common issue that many residents face: sink blockages. Whether it’s your kitchen or bathroom sink, certain items can wreak havoc on your plumbing over time. Here’s our guide to the top 5 things that commonly block sinks, and how you can prevent and fix these issues.
1. Cooking Grease
What Causes the Blockage?
Cooking grease is a plumbing enemy. When hot grease is poured down the sink, it cools, solidifies, and sticks to the inside of your pipes, gradually causing blockages.
Prevention:
Always dispose of grease in a trash can. Let it cool and solidify in a container (like an old can) and then toss it in the bin.
Fix:
If grease has clogged your sink, try pouring a mixture of boiling water, baking soda, and vinegar down the drain. This can help melt and disperse the grease. If the blockage persists, it might be time to call a professional plumber in North Vancouver.
2. Coffee Grounds
What Causes the Blockage?
Coffee grounds don’t break down in water. Instead, they accumulate and can easily clog your pipes.
Prevention:
The best way to deal with coffee grounds is by adding them to your compost bin or scattering them in your garden as fertilizer, rather than washing them down the sink.
Fix:
For minor clogs caused by coffee grounds, use a plunger. If that doesn’t work, a plumber’s snake or a hydro jetting service from your local North Vancouver plumber can clear the blockage effectively.
3. Eggshells
What Causes the Blockage?
Contrary to popular belief, eggshells do not sharpen garbage disposal blades. They break into small, sharp pieces that can bind with other wastes and block pipes.
Prevention:
Eggshells should be disposed of in compost bins or trash—not down the sink.
Fix:
A plunger or plumber’s snake can be used to dislodge eggshell clogs. For recurring issues, it’s advisable to seek professional plumbing services in North Vancouver.
4. Starchy Foods (e.g., Pasta and Rice)
What Causes the Blockage?
Starchy foods like pasta and rice expand when they absorb water, which can lead to blockages, especially when they stick to other debris in your pipes.
Prevention:
Avoid putting any leftover starchy foods down the drain. Scrape them into the trash or a compost bin.
Fix:
A mixture of vinegar and hot water can help break down these blockages. Persistent clogs may require mechanical removal, so consider contacting a plumber in North Vancouver.
5. Produce Stickers
What Causes the Blockage?
Those little stickers on fruits and vegetables may seem harmless, but they can stick to the insides of pipes and contribute to blockages when combined with other debris.
Prevention:
Make sure to remove and dispose of stickers in the garbage before washing your produce.
Fix:
Produce stickers can be tricky to remove once they stick to pipes. Often, professional intervention from a plumber is necessary to ensure they are thoroughly removed without damaging your plumbing.
Conclusion
Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to plumbing. By being mindful of what goes down your sink, you can save yourself a lot of trouble and expense. However, if you do encounter a stubborn blockage, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local “Plumber North Vancouver” for professional help. Remember, the sooner you address the issue, the less damage it will likely cause. Click here to reach out to us!
For more tips on maintaining your plumbing or to schedule a service, visit our website or contact us directly. Keep your pipes clear and flowing smoothly!