Why You Should Never Pour These 5 Things Down the Drain

Your initial instinct may be to just pour any remaining liquids down the drain if you need to tidy up after a meal or a project. But pouring specific substances down your drain can seriously harm both the environment and your plumbing system. Potentially toxic chemicals can cause havoc on your pipes and efficient wastewater treatment, necessitating expensive repairs on your part and posing a host of issues for the Delta water treatment plant. 

How does wastewater treatment function, and what can be done to prevent the addition of harsh substances to the wastewater in your community? Here are the top 5 things you must never pour down the drain as we examine these questions. 

Why Care About Wastewater? 

Any water that has been used and is now contaminated is considered wastewater. This might include water from your washing machine, kitchen sink, bathroom sink, and even the water that drains from your shower. The method of cleaning this water so that it can be recycled or released back into the environment is known as wastewater treatment. 

Wastewater treatment is vital because it restores our drinking water, preserves the sanitation of our lakes and rivers, and protects the environment from toxic pollutants. You instantly contribute to pollution and the deterioration of our water supplies when you pour dangerous substances down the drain. 

5 Things You Should Never Pour Down the Drain 

The top 5 things that should never be poured into a drain are: 

1. Grease and cooking oil. Cooking oil and grease can solidify in your pipes and lead to clogs that stop the flow of water. They may also pile up inside your pipes, which may eventually result in leaks and a frustrated Delta property manager. Grease and cooking oil should be poured into a heat-resistant container and discarded in the trash as soon as possible. 
2. Paint. The environment and water can be contaminated by toxic chemicals found in paint. It can also clog pipes, resulting in expensive maintenance. Inquire with your local waste management office for information on how to properly dispose of any leftover paint. 
3. Household cleaners. Numerous harsh chemicals found in household cleaners have the potential to harm the environment and your plumbing system. Pour any leftover liquid from a household cleaner into a container, then properly dispose of it. 
4. Medication. Medication can endanger aquatic life and cause water pollution. It can also contaminate our drinking water if not dealt with correctly. Taking your medication to a nearby pharmacy for disposal is the best way to get rid of it. 
5. Car fluids. Fluids used in automobiles may contain toxic substances that pollute the water and the environment. If they seep into the engine or other automobile parts, they can also cause damage. The best place to dispose of auto fluids is at a nearby garage or an auto parts retailer. 

These simple and direct guidelines can assist in preserving the environment and your plumbing system. Remember that when in doubt, always discard! 

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