Kitchen sinks and garbage disposals often take a lot of abuse by occupants in the home. Did you know there are best practices when it comes to properly disposing fats, oil, food, and grease in the kitchen?
We live in such a fast paced society and sometimes conveniently disposing left over food without scraping the dishes, pouring fats, oil, and grease can build up over time blocking sewer lines, stop sewer and storm drains, and cost more time and money to hire a plumber. Most municipalities tell you to properly dispose fats, oil, and grease, but often times, people don't listen. Youtube is not always the answer. Plumbers are costly.
In the State of Texas, minor repairs, replacements, and installations normally do not require a licensed plumber. Depending on who you call in DFW (Dallas Fort Worth), the average cost to unclog a sink and put new parts in a toilet are just under $600.00. Without the right tools, or knowing how old the plumbing is in your home, it can cost more for amateurs who think they can do it themselves.
For plumbing sake here are things one shouldn't do:
- Pour fats, cooking oil, or grease down the drain.
- Wash food scraps down the drain.
- Rinse off fats with hot water.
- Run water over dishes, pots, pans, fryers, and griddles to wash off fats.
To save time and money by preventing plumber problems here are some tips:
- Cover drains and empty them by disposing them carefully into garbage.
- Remove fats by letting them cool first before wiping off excess.
- Pour fats and oils into covered containers.
- Prewash dishes, pots and pans before putting them in the dishwasher.
- Always avoid using the garbage disposal from discarded food and scraps.
Plumbing Licese in Texas
There are four types of Plumbing Licenses in the State of Texas.
1) Tradesman Plumber-Limited.
2) Journeyman.
3) Master.
4) Plumbing Inspector.
If you call for a Plumber, be specific and ask questions about what you can expect before you set up an appointment. If you allow a Tradesman Plumber-Limited to work on your plumbing, your issues may be solved but it won't be cheap. If the Tradesman Plumber-Limited is unable to repair or replace your issues, most likely you'll still pay more for the next tier of experience from a licensed Plumber.
Home Ownership comes with responsibilities, costs, and maintenance. If you don't mind throwing your money down the drain, that is entirely up to you. If you plan to get things done right the first time, wisely implement best practices in the kitchen. Your home is an investment. Water is a source of life! Our basic needs depend on income, safety, and cleanliness, including clog free pipes. When it comes to living right, "Time is of the Essence!"
These tips comes to you from REALTOR® and Homeownership experience. When it comes to plumbing issues, do your own due dilligence and follow your Town or City ordinances and/or instructions for proper disposals.
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