Plumber shares common liquids to never flush down the sink or risk ‘disastrous’ blockage

According to an experienced plumber from MyBuilder.com, kitchen sink clogs are caused by everyday products, but many don't know which liquids are problematic.

Mike Flook, a plumber with the company, said: “While it may seem like liquids such as creamy drinks or leftover sauce can be flushed down the sink, in reality they can cause serious problems, especially if they are repeated actions.”

“Depending on the product and where you dump it, the result can be that you are faced with clogged toilets or sinks.

“While this is painful at any time of year, it is doubly frustrating and costly at Christmas, when it can be difficult to find plumbers.

“However, there are steps you can take to avoid these mistakes, as well as emergency measures you can take to mitigate disaster if you accidentally flush or spill something you shouldn't.”

Bailey's

Cream liqueur drinks like the popular Baileys can be a problem for your plumbing at Christmas.

According to the expert, drinks like Baileys have a high fat content and fall into the FOG (fats, oils and fats) category.

The expert said: “Mist should never go down the sink as it sticks to pipes and can cause blockages. It is also responsible for the fatbergs in our sewers.”

Turkey fat

The plumber explained: “As with Baileys, turkey fat is classified as FOG. Half the population admits to pouring mist down the drain, but don't be one of them.

“The problem with pouring leftover grease down the drain is that it cools down, which can lead to blockages and fatbergs in your pipes.

“Calling a plumber on Christmas Day isn’t easy – both in terms of availability and budget.

“Emergency operations can be four times more expensive than normal operations – and even more at Christmas.”

coffee grounds

If you have guests over during the holidays and provide them with fresh coffee, rinsing the coffee grounds down the sink can seem quick and easy.

However, according to the expert, they can clump together in the U-bends of the pipes and lead to blockages.

If you accidentally spill some into the sink, immediately run hot water and add soap to the hot water to clear the clog.

The plumber remarked, “Don’t use chemicals. Drain cleaners are often ineffective against FOGs and can cause damage to your pipes in the process.

“A plunger is likely to be more effective and gentler, so make sure you have one around the house just in case.”