Most people have likely stumbled upon DIY tips for tackling clogged drains, and pouring boiling water down the kitchen sink often tops the list. But is it safe to do so? Occasionally, like when you’re draining pasta, it might not cause any immediate issues.
But is this something you should rely on regularly? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
This short guide is here to shed some light on that very question. Let’s dig in!
The answer isn’t straightforward—it largely depends on the type of pipes under your kitchen sink. Specifically, we need to consider the material they’re made from.
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):
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.
PVC pipes can handle some heat, but freshly boiled water, reaching nearly 100 degrees C, is too much. If you keep pouring boiling water down the drain, it might weaken or even melt the glued joints in PVC pipes. Eventually, this could cause leaks and costly fixes—a headache no homeowner wants.
You should also consider the type of kitchen sink into which you will be pouring the hot water. For instance, if it’s a porcelain sink, the heat might eventually crack it.
Using boiling water to clear a clog might seem like a quick fix, but it’s not a long-term solution. In reality, the hot water often pushes grease and debris further down the pipe, where they cling to the sides and become even harder to remove.
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.
Carrying a pot of boiling water from the stove to the sink might seem harmless, but it’s actually quite risky. A single slip, and you could suffer painful burns or injuries. It’s always best to prioritise safety, so consider this risk before trying.
Regularly pouring hot water down your kitchen sink to clear clogs isn’t just ineffective—it could do more harm than good. You’d need litres of boiling water to make a dent in a blockage, and by the time you do, your pipes might already be worse for wear.
You can resort to a few DIY methods, like using a plunger or drain snake to remove clogs. You can also avoid disposing of grease and oil down the sink to prevent blockage.
If you must use boiling water, ensure your pipes are made of heat-resistant materials like iron or copper. Even then, it’s best to reserve this method for rare occasions.
If you’re dealing with a stubborn blockage, don’t stress—reach out to WP Plumbing. Our licensed plumbers are armed with the latest tools and techniques to clear your kitchen sink and get things flowing smoothly again.
So, please book an appointment with us today!
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