5 Things You Should Never Flush: Protecting Your Pipes and Plumbing

When it comes to our everyday habits, one area that often goes overlooked is how we treat our pipes and plumbing systems. Flushing items down the toilet that are not meant to be flushed can lead to serious plumbing issues and costly repairs. You’ll find yourself calling plumbers in Atlanta much more frequently.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of treating your pipes well and highlight five things you should never flush down the toilet or drain.

Why Take Care of Your Pipes?

Taking care of your pipes is crucial for maintaining a functional plumbing system and preventing clogs, backups, and damage. Flushing the wrong items down the toilet can cause blockages in your pipes, leading to sewage backups, overflowing toilets, and potential water damage to your home. 

Additionally, these items can accumulate in municipal sewage systems, causing significant problems for the entire community. By being mindful of what you flush, you can protect your plumbing and contribute to a healthy and efficient wastewater system. If you find issues with your plumbing, don’t forget to contact your local plumbers in Atlanta–Dupree Plumbing. 

5 Things to Never Flush

Now that we understand the importance of keeping your pipes clean, let’s look at five things you should never flush down the toilet or drain:

1. Flushable Wipes: Despite their name, flushable wipes should never be flushed down the toilet. While they may initially seem convenient, these wipes do not break down like toilet paper and can clog your pipes and municipal sewage systems. It’s best to dispose of them in the trash to avoid potential plumbing issues.
2. Tampons: Tampons are designed to absorb moisture, and when flushed, they can expand in the pipes, leading to blockages and backups. It’s important to wrap tampons in toilet paper or place them in designated disposal bags and dispose of them in the trash.
3. Diapers: Diapers should never be flushed down the toilet due to their size and absorbent nature. They can cause severe blockages and should always be disposed of in the trash.
4. Paper Towels: Although they may seem similar to toilet paper, paper towels are not designed to break down easily in water. Flushing paper towels can lead to clogs and should be discarded in the trash instead.
5. Cotton Balls/Swabs: Cotton balls and swabs do not dissolve in water and can accumulate in your plumbing system, causing blockages. These items should always be thrown in the trash after use.

Looking for Plumbers in Atlanta? Dupree Plumbing is Here to Help 

By avoiding the flushing of these five items, you can protect your pipes, prevent clogs, and avoid costly plumbing repairs. It’s essential to educate everyone in your household about what should and shouldn’t be flushed to maintain a healthy plumbing system.

If you encounter any plumbing issues or suspect a blockage in your pipes, it’s best to consult with professional plumbers like Dupree Plumbing in Atlanta. With their expertise and experience, they can identify and resolve plumbing problems efficiently and effectively.