To help you out, here are four common mistakes people are making.
Flushing items down the toilet
Speaking to Stuff, Master Plumbers CEO Greg Wallace says "only 'the three Ps' - pee, poo and (toilet) paper - should be flushed. Anything else can cause you an entirely avoidable problem."
Flushable wipes should also be avoided. They don’t break down and can cause some serious issues with your plumbing. In an article published on choice.com.au last year, it was reported that Australia’s water service providers are spending around $15 million a year to clear blockages.
Grease, oil, fat
Grease and oil stick to the pipes. After pouring these substances down your drain they become solid, catching any stray food scraps that come past eventually causing a blockage.
Not clearing gutters
The main purpose of having gutters is to move water away from the home. When gutters block, it can cause a number of problems including damage to the foundation.
Ignoring small problems
Water in a blocked drain has to go somewhere. A small blockage can be fixed easily, however, ignoring it could cause leaks or flooding. So, clear your pipes as soon as you notice something isn’t right.
This article originally appeared on Better Homes and Gardens.
