How to keep your drains flowing and water clean | Tenant news

Blocked drains can cause bad smells, slow drainage, and even serious plumbing issues, but worse still, major blockages can damage sewer systems and harm the environment. 

However, by following a few simple habits, you can help prevent blockages and keep water flowing smoothly.

How it works

Your home’s pipes are designed to carry wastewater away safely—but only liquids should go down the drain.

Most household pipes are made from plastic or copper and are narrow, so solid materials like fats and food scraps can stick to pipe walls, creating unpleasant odours and blockages over time.

When other non-flushable items like wet wipes enter the system, they can also lead to expensive plumbing repairs.

What to watch out for

Wet wipes – even ‘flushable’ ones
Even if they’re labelled as flushable, wet wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. Instead, they clump together and block household pipes and sewers. Always dispose of wet wipes in the bin.

Fats, oils, and grease (FOG)
Cooking oils and fats may be liquid when hot, but they solidify as they cool, sticking to pipe walls and trapping debris. Over time, this leads to fatbergs—large, solid blockages in the drainage system. Let FOG cool and dispose of it in the bin.

Sanitary products and nappies
Tampons, sanitary pads, and nappies absorb moisture and don’t break down in water. Flushing them can cause serious blockages. Wrap them up and place them in the bin instead.

Paper towels, tissues, and cotton-based products
Unlike toilet paper, these materials don’t dissolve easily in water. Flushing them can quickly clog pipes, leading to slow drainage or complete blockages.

Food waste
Even small bits of food getting down kitchen plugholes can cause blockages. Scrape plates clean into a bin or a food composting bin before washing up.

Medications and chemicals
Flushing medicine or pouring chemicals down the drain can harm the environment. Instead, take unwanted medicines to your local pharmacy for safe disposal, and recycle household chemicals at designated centres.

Remember

• Bin it, don’t flush it – if it’s not toilet paper, it shouldn’t go down the toilet.
• Dispose of fats properly – let fats and oils cool before throwing them away.
• Use a drain strainer – these handy tools catch hair, food, and other debris before they reach the pipes.
• Flush drains with hot water regularly – this helps prevent grease and soap buildup.
  
  

By following these simple steps, we can all do our part to keep our drains clear and protect our environment.

If you notice a blockage, try using a plunger or drain snake to clear it. If that doesn’t work, you may need professional help.

Habinteg tenants can report repairs via the My Habinteg tenant portal or contact our Customer Service Team at direct@habinteg.org.uk or call 0300 365 3100.

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