Is it harmful to pour boiling water into the sink? Important recommendations from experts

After cooking potatoes, eggs or pasta, many people pour the remaining boiling water into the sink. We think that by doing this, we will help clean the pipes from dirt. However, in reality, the situation is completely different.

The real reason for the problem is that sewage systems in modern homes are mainly made of plastic polymer materials. For example, most of the siphons and pipes in our homes are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the maximum temperature of which is around 65°C. Water above this temperature softens the material and causes deformation. Especially if the water temperature changes sharply, rubber connectors can lose their tightness and leak.

In addition, polypropylene is also widely used in the manufacture of pipes and siphons. This material is heat-resistant up to 80°C. Of course, PVC and polypropylene can withstand high temperatures of up to 95°C for a short time, but if this happens regularly, it will lead to serious damage. Especially if the pipes have a small diameter (around 40–50 mm) and food residues have accumulated in them, their partial narrowing will increase the deformation under the influence of high temperatures.

According to experts, instead of pouring boiling water directly into the sink, it is recommended to cool it for at least 10 minutes or mix the water with cold water. This method protects the pipes from premature failure.

If you quickly pour a large amount of boiling water into the sewer system, the rubber connectors in the pipe will expand under the influence of heat and lose their compressive properties. As a result, water from the pipes can leak out, causing serious damage to kitchen furniture or flooding the neighbors on the ground floor.

It is almost impossible to clean the sewage system with hot water alone. This requires special chemical cleaning agents. Otherwise, attempts to clean with high temperatures can only damage the pipes.

Experts advise following these simple recommendations to prevent contamination of pipes:

- Never throw food and grease residues into the sink;
- Do not allow hair and other waste to fall into the sewer;

Do not throw construction waste and wet wipes into the toilet.

Is it harmful to pour hot water into the sink and toilet in the bathroom?

Plumbing fixtures used in the bathroom and bathroom are mainly made of faience, porcelain, ceramic granite or stainless steel. These materials are quite resistant to high temperatures. However, experts do not recommend pouring boiling water on them regularly, because ceramic products are sensitive to sudden temperature changes, and small invisible cracks may appear on them.

In conclusion, for the long-term operation of any sewage and plumbing system, it is advisable to follow the simple but important recommendations listed above. This will help you avoid premature failure of the equipment in your home and additional costs. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!