Every time you pour used cooking oil down the drain, you’re doing much more harm than you think. Oil is a common household waste product, and many people believe that it can easily be disposed of by simply pouring it down the drain. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Here are some of the reasons why you should never put oil down the drain.
Clogs Pipes and Causes Costly Repairs
One of the main reasons why you should never put oil down the drain is that it can clog pipes. Cooking oil can solidify in pipes and cause blockages, leading to costly repairs. The buildup of grease and oil in pipes can cause slow drains, backed up toilets, and even sewage overflows, which can be a health hazard and expensive to fix.
Harms Wildlife and Disrupts Aquatic Ecosystems
Another reason why you should not put oil down the drain is that it can harm wildlife and disrupt aquatic ecosystems. Oil that enters waterways can stick to the feathers and fur of animals, causing them to become trapped and unable to fly or swim. This can lead to death by drowning, hypothermia, or starvation. Oil also affects the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems, causing harm to plants and animals that depend on clean water for survival.
May Be Harmful to Human Health
In addition to being harmful to wildlife and the environment, some oil products can be harmful to human health. For example, motor oil contains toxic chemicals that can contaminate drinking water and harm human health if ingested. Cooking oils can also contain harmful substances that can harm human health if they are not properly disposed of.
Proper Disposal and Recycling
Instead of putting oil down the drain, it should be properly disposed of or recycled. Used cooking oil can be reused several times before it needs to be disposed of, making it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option. You can pour used oil into a sealed container and put it in your general waste bin. Alternatively to recycle old or used cooking oil, pour it into a container and drop it off at a recycler that accepts oil. You can check your closest recycling centre at https://recyclingnearyou.com.au/cooking-oil/
In conclusion, putting oil down the drain is a harmful practice that can lead to costly repairs, harm wildlife and disrupt aquatic ecosystems, and potentially harm human health. Instead of putting oil down the drain, it should be properly disposed of or recycled. By taking the time to properly dispose of oil, we can help protect our pipes, the environment, and our health.
At Fantastic Plumbing, our professional team of plumbers can inspect and clear any blockages efficiently and effectively. Located in Byron Bay, we service Ballina, Banora Point, Lennox Head and surrounding areas. Get in touch at 0480 021 120 now to get your drains inspected.
