6 Waste Disposal Tips to Keep Your Plumbing in Good Shape

Beyond keeping your home tidy, responsible waste management is also integral to maintaining a healthy plumbing system. If you dispose of waste properly, you can improve and increase the functionality and longevity of your plumbing infrastructure. You can also prevent clogs, corrosion, and damage to your home’s pipes and fixtures.

If you reside in the Otago region in New Zealand, you can find reputable plumbers Dunedin residents trust to resolve your plumbing problems. That said, it’s still better to adopt effective waste disposal practices. It helps you maintain a smoothly running plumbing system longer and avoid potentially costly repairs.

From food waste management to the use of eco-friendly cleaning products, here are practices to maintain your plumbing system’s condition:

1. Manage Food Waste Properly

One way you can keep your plumbing in good shape is by minimising the food waste you throw in the garbage disposal. Instead of throwing them away, consider composting organic kitchen scraps. This practice reduces strain on your plumbing, which also decreases the likelihood of clogs and pipe blockages. 

Moreover, composting organic waste is good for the soil and is more sustainable. It helps divert organic materials from landfills, reducing methane emissions and contributing to nutrient-rich compost for gardens and landscaping.

2. Be Mindful of What You Put in the Garbage Disposal 

Garbage disposal units can be convenient, but they should be used wisely to avoid plumbing issues. An important thing to remember is to avoid putting fibrous or hard items like bones down the disposal. You shouldn’t use it for nuts and pits, eggshells, coffee grounds, and potato peels. These can damage the blades and lead to costly repairs. Last but not least, don’t put too much of any type of food or waste into the disposal at once.

3. Run Cold Water on Your Waste Disposal

Another tip when using your garbage disposal is to run cold water while using it. Cold water helps keep the disposal's motor and blades cool, allowing them to operate at optimal efficiency. This is particularly important when disposing of tougher food waste, as it reduces the risk of overheating and ensures the waste is ground into smaller, more manageable particles that can pass through the pipes without causing clogs.

Another benefit of cold water is that it also promotes smoother flow in the pipes. When you run cold water during and after using the garbage disposal, it helps flush the ground-up food particles through the plumbing system more efficiently. This continuous flow of water ensures that any debris is carried away quickly, which reduces the chances of it settling in the pipes and causing blockages.

4. Get Rid of Oil and Grease Responsibly

Improper disposal of cooking oils and grease can lead to serious plumbing issues. When cooled, grease and oil can congeal and stick to the walls of your pipes, which gradually narrows the passageway and eventually causes clogs. Even small amounts of grease can accumulate over time and lead to major blockages. 

Instead of pouring them down the sink, let oil or grease cool and solidify in a container, then dispose of this container in the trash. Alternatively, you can use absorbent materials like paper towels to soak up excess grease before putting these in the trash. This practice protects your plumbing from potential clogs and thus contributes to the longevity of your plumbing system.

5. Know What Not to Flush

When it comes to your bathroom, keep in mind that toilets are designed to flush human waste and toilet paper only. Flushing items like wet wipes, cotton pads, and sanitary products can lead to clogs and damage to sewer systems. Even products labelled as "flushable" can cause issues, as they do not break down as quickly as toilet paper. They can accumulate in sewer pipes and wastewater treatment facilities over time, which can lead to costly maintenance, repairs, and even pollution. 

Thus, it’s best to dispose of personal hygiene products, cleaning wipes, and other non-biodegradable items in the trash. It’s also a good idea to educate your household about proper flushing habits to reduce the risk of plumbing problems.

6. Schedule Maintenance and Repairs with Professionals

Regular maintenance is also essential for the long-term health of your plumbing. Have professional plumbers perform routine checks to keep drains clean and identify problems before they escalate into major issues. 

Additionally, opting for professional repairs and upgrades can improve water conservation and reduce utility costs over time. Whether it's replacing old pipes, upgrading fixtures, or detecting hidden leaks, investing in professional plumbing services ensures your plumbing system remains reliable and efficient.

Proper waste disposal and plumbing maintenance contribute to a healthier plumbing system, so consider these tips to protect your home from plumbing disasters. If you encounter persistent plumbing issues or need professional maintenance, don't hesitate to contact Mains Plumbers. Our team of professional plumbers can provide expert inspections, repairs, and advice to keep your plumbing in optimal condition. For immediate repairs, we have emergency plumbing services. 

We also offer drainlaying and gas fitting services to take care of your entire plumbing system. Ensure your home's plumbing system continues to operate efficiently by seeking our plumbing and drainlaying services today.