Episode Title: It Happened to Me: Stories from the Field

Larry spent a whole Sunday clearing a drain clog in a sewer line at a rental house. This is the story and how to prevent these types of problems.

Flushing certain items down the drain can lead to clogs, plumbing issues, and environmental problems. Here are the top five things that homeowners should avoid flushing down the drain:

1. Grease and Cooking Oils:

o Pouring grease and cooking oils down the drain might seem convenient, but they can solidify and cause blockages in your pipes over time. Instead, let them cool and solidify in a container, then dispose of them in the trash.

2. Flushable Wipes:

o Despite the label "flushable," many wipes do not break down as easily as toilet paper and can contribute to blockages in sewage systems. It's better to dispose of them in the trash.

3. Paper Towels and Tissues:

o While toilet paper is designed to break down in water, paper towels and tissues are more durable and can cause clogs in pipes. Dispose of them in the trash rather than flushing them.

4. Medications:

o Flushing expired or unused medications down the drain can contribute to water pollution and harm aquatic ecosystems. Instead, participate in a medication take-back program or follow proper disposal guidelines provided by local authorities.

5. Dental Floss:

o Dental floss is not biodegradable and can contribute to clogs. It can also wrap around and damage plumbing components. Dispose of dental floss in the trash.

Remember, the best way to prevent plumbing issues is to be mindful of what goes down the drain. If you're unsure about the flushability of an item, it's generally safer to dispose of it in the trash. Regular maintenance, such as using drain screens and scheduling professional inspections, can also help prevent costly plumbing problems.

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