Should you pour boiling water down the drain?
Using boiling water is widely regarded as a quick and cost-effective way of dealing with minor issues such as small clogs and soft blockages. The high temperature of the water also helps to dissolve greases and residues.
What are the potential drawbacks?
Whilst it can be effective for some specific circumstances, there are some situations where it will not help; for example, if your drain has a major blockage, boiling water can potentially move the blockage deeper into the plumbing system, making it harder to get to/resolve. Additionally, if there is a major blockage, any water you pour down the drain will just sit in the pipe indefinitely.
It is important to note that boiling water is fine if your pipes are metal; however, if you have PVC pipes, you should use warm rather than boiling water. This is because PVC is less able to deal with such high temperatures and prolonged exposure to boiling water may cause damage such as warping, cracking, or melting.
Lastly, handling boiling water can be precarious and potentially result in burns/scalding
Are you looking for a CCTV drain survey Northampton?
If you have been experiencing problems you believe are linked to your drains, you may wish to consider commissioning a CCTV drain survey. These are a non-invasive way of identifying issues such as blockages or collapsed/damaged pipes.
There are a number of companies that offer a CCTV drain survey in Northampton and the nearby areas. Some of these, such as www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/cctv-drain-surveys-northampton/, also have useful online resources.
Alternatives
When it comes to minor blockages, there are a number of alternative methods that can be used. These include using a homemade solution made up of soda water and vinegar. A plunger or drain snake may also help.
For more stubborn blockages, you could consider using chemical drain cleaners or enzyme-based cleaners. The latter are eco-friendly and safe.
Prevention
Regular preventative maintenance can help to keep your drains functioning. This includes not pouring oils/greases down the drain and only flushing biodegradable items down the toilet.
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