Is It Safe To Pour Boiling Water Down the Kitchen Sink?

We’ve all read about the DIY ways of clearing drain clogs and blockages - the most common being pouring boiling water down the kitchen sink. But is it safe to do so?

Of course, doing this once or twice won’t cause any harm if you’re careful. Let’s face it - we’ve all poured steaming hot water into the sink even while draining that hot pot of pasta for dinner. But should this be made into a regular practice?

That’s what this brief informative guide is all about. Read on to know more!

Should You Be Pouring Boiling Water Down The Kitchen Sink?

There is no straightforward answer to this question. It will depend on the type of water pipe installed below your kitchen drain - rather, the pipeline’s material.

That said, here is a list of the different materials water pipes are usually made up of, along with the highest temperatures they can easily withstand (for your reference):

• Iron - 1,410 degrees C
• Copper - 1,083 degrees C
• Galvanised Steel - 200 degrees C
• CPVC - 93 degrees C
• Pex - 93 degrees C
• PVC - 60 degrees C

While copper, iron, and galvanised steel pipes can withstand high water temperatures, materials like PVC, Pex, and CPVC will show signs of damage over time. And since most homes these days have PVC pipes installed under the kitchen sinks, any licensed plumber will advise against using boiling water to clear clogged drain pipes.

What Happens When You Pour Boiling Water Down The Kitchen Sink?

PVC pipes can withstand heat but not water temperatures as high as 100 degrees C. So, regularly subjecting your kitchen pipeline to boiling water will only soften or melt its joints (usually held together with glue). Over time, the water pipes will deteriorate and leak, requiring immediate repairs or replacement.

You should also consider the type of kitchen sink you will be pouring the hot water into. For instance, if it’s a porcelain kitchen sink, it might eventually crack because of the heat.

Pouring boiling water down the sink is not a solution that will work for you in the long run. It will only cause the grease and debris to move further down the drain and stick to its sides, making them difficult to reach and eliminate.

Consequently, using this method to unclog your kitchen sink drain regularly will only lead to a bigger, more stubborn blockage in the near future. To deal with this problem, you will eventually need the help of a professional plumber.

Is Pouring Boiling Water Down The Kitchen Sink Safe For You?

Lifting and carrying a pot of boiling water from your kitchen stove to the sink and pouring the water into it increases the risk of accidents. It is risky, and you might end up with severe burns and injuries, which will only prove to be painful and distressing. So, consider your safety a priority!

Pouring Boiling Water Down the Kitchen Sink

Pouring hot water down the kitchen sink is not the best way to clear blockages. It has long-term implications, and you will require gallons of boiling water. As such, you will damage your pipeline before loosening the clogs.

There are a few DIY methods you can resort to, like using a plunger or drain snake to remove clogs. Or avoid disposing of grease and oil down the sink to prevent blockage.

Only pour boiling water if your pipeline is made of metals like iron or copper, as they have the highest temperature resistance. Even then, do so only if required.

Of course, you can also reach out to us at WP Plumbing. Our team of experienced and licensed plumbers will use the latest equipment and technology to clear drain blockages on kitchen sinks. Our plumbing experts can also replace your PVC pipes if they show signs of leakage and damage.

So, please book an appointment with us today!