In the comfort of our homes, we often overlook the small habits that can lead to big problems.

A water company pointed out a common household mistake that has caused nightmares for many Aussies, and it's time we talk about it.

Sydney Water warned about disposing of fats, oils, and grease on kitchen sinks.

While it is a quick solution to eliminate cooking by-products, this practice may lead to severe blockages in our plumbing systems, creating what is known as 'fatbergs'.

These blockages are a headache for homeowners and pose significant health and environmental risks.

Sydney Water shared a photo of clogged pipes, reminding homeowners of the consequences of improper waste disposal. Image Credit: Facebook/Sydney Water

Sydney Water highlighted the gravity of the situation with a confronting image of a clogged pipe choked with hardened grease and other waste materials.

When cooking oils and fats are poured down the sink, they cool and solidify in the wastewater pipes.

They then combine with other non-biodegradable items like wet wipes, cotton buds, and hair, forming solid masses that can cause overflows.

These overflows are more than just a plumbing issue; they can lead to wastewater backing up and spilling into homes, backyards, and local waterways.

The environmental impact is significant as pollutants enter rivers and oceans—harming wildlife and disrupting ecosystems.

Western Sydney University's Ian Wright warned that blocked sewers could jeopardise public health as people—including children—may come in contact with raw sewage.

In a previous article, a tradie also pointed out the consequences of improper waste disposal, as he met a stinky surprise while cleaning pipes.

The financial cost of these blockages is also considerable.

The problem contributes to a $15 to 20 million expense annually in NSW alone. Similar issues also happen nationwide.

Homeowners may face hefty plumbing bills to fix blocked drains.

To prevent these 'fatbergs', Sydney Water advised residents to adopt effective waste disposal practices:

1. Scrape food leftovers into the bin or compost.
2. Use a paper towel to wipe greasy pans and dishes to remove excess oil.
3. Instead of pouring used oil or fatty liquids down the drain, place them in a container and dispose of them in the bin.
4. Add a sink strainer to catch small pieces of food to prevent them from entering plumbing systems.

By making these small changes, we can all prevent similar plumbing disasters and contribute to a healthier, safer environment.

It's a simple act of responsibility that goes a long way.

Remember, it's not just about avoiding a plumbing nightmare; it's about safeguarding our beloved homes and environment for future generations.

Key Takeaways

• Aussies were warned about the damage caused by improper food disposal.
• Items such as grease, fats, and oils can lead to 'fatbergs' that block pipes and cause hazardous wastewater overflows.
• Sydney Water shared an image showing the impacts of grease and other waste build-up inside a blocked pipe.
• To prevent these issues, Sydney Water emphasised properly disposing of food waste and oils, using a sink strainer, and wiping greasy dishes before washing.

Do you have any waste disposal tips to keep your homes clean and safe? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.

 

[Nanna Josephine]

As a 70 y.o. reader, I feel certain that nearly ALL of the "Seniors" reading this article are 100% FULLY AWARE of the hazards of tossing fats down the drain! If they are not aware, then they are most likely older people who lived in luxury and never had to worry about blocked kitchen sinks or toilets backing up! It was a fact of life, growing up.

 

[Gaena]

Sorry to express my usual reaction of what ever happened to "Common Sense" when it comes to disposing of normal house hold waste products, how would anyone think that throwing cotton buds and or left over cooking fat/oil into a kitchen sink or even a toilet be the right thing to do. I worry for our future whenever I read about the ignorance that so many people have let alone the total absence of that illusive "Common Sense" so I won't talk about the generation knowledge divide, children learn from their parents so if their parents are ignorant or just plain lazy their children will be too, thats all. end of rant!!

 

[marni]

Pity this is not taught to younger generation obviously. It all starts with parenting

 

[Towing]

We need to think what is on our plates etc when we put them in a dishwasher too