We emphasize the importance of proper maintenance in kitchens and bathrooms to prevent costly repairs. In the kitchen, we advise against disposing of items like paper towels, plastic wrappers, broken glass, rubber gloves, sponges, cigarette butts, dental floss, hair, grease, fats, oils, bones, fruit pits, nuts, eggshells, coffee grounds, starchy foods (e.g., potatoes, pasta, rice), and fibrous vegetables (e.g., onions, asparagus, celery, artichokes) down garbage disposals. These materials can cause clogs, damage disposal blades, and lead to plumbing issues. Maintaining proper disposal habits can prevent emergencies and extend appliance lifespan.
In bathrooms, especially during cold weather, we warn about the risk of frozen toilets and pipes. Freezing temperatures can cause water in toilets and connecting pipes to freeze, leading to cracks or bursts due to ice expansion. Homeowners are advised not to attempt flushing frozen toilets, as it can cause internal damage. Preventative measures include insulating pipes and keeping areas warm using space heaters or other safe heating methods. If pipes do freeze, they should be thawed slowly with heat sources like hair dryers or heating pads, but never with open flames. After thawing, it’s crucial to check for cracks or leaks to prevent further damage and potential mold growth. Repairing burst pipes from freezing can be expensive, with average claims around $18,000.
By adhering to these guidelines, homeowners can maintain the functionality of their kitchen and bathroom plumbing systems, avoid common pitfalls, and reduce the likelihood of emergency repairs. Learn more at this HGTV article.
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