Individuals are being advised to refrain from pouring liquids from tinned tuna down their sink due to potential severe consequences highlighted in a recent warning. Despite appearing innocuous, this action could have detrimental effects not only on your kitchen drains but also on the local sewer system.
During an appearance on Morning Live on Friday (June 26), BBC DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles discussed the issue of fatbergs. These substantial obstructions consist of fats, oils, and greases combined with other materials, leading to significant problems in sewer systems and drains.
Fatbergs have the potential to cause significant property flooding, result in sewage overflow into rivers, foster antibiotic-resistant superbugs, and incur substantial costs for manual, high-pressure removal. If there are indications of a blockage near your residence, the recommended course of action is to contact your water company promptly.
To minimize the risk of fatberg-related issues, Nick Knowles cautioned against disposing of certain food items down toilets and sink drains. Notably, he highlighted the adverse impact of pouring tinned tuna liquid down the sink.
“Avoid pouring oils down the sink. While most individuals are now aware of the repercussions of discarding oils in bathroom or kitchen sinks, many still drain tins of tuna into the sink. The oil from tinned tuna, as well as fats from air fryers and coffee grounds, collectively contribute to blockages,” emphasized Knowles.
To prevent plumbing blockages and fatberg formation, it is advisable to keep oils and fats away from drains. Instead of pouring liquids down the sink, absorb small amounts with paper towels and dispose of them in the bin, pour them into a sealed container, or utilize them for cooking purposes.
After cooking with oil, Knowles recommends allowing the oil to cool completely, then transferring it to a disposable container for disposal. “Use a container like a baked bean tin or any other disposable item and discard it in the bin,” he suggested.
Furthermore, Knowles advised against pouring food grease, food scraps, and coffee grounds down drains, while also issuing a caution regarding toilet usage.
He emphasized the importance of refraining from flushing cotton buds, nappies, or wet wipes down toilets. Regarding wet wipes, he stated, “The governments of England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are collectively working to phase out the use of plastics in wet wipes, which will significantly contribute to preventing such occurrences.”
Knowles also outlined warning signs indicating the presence of a blockage in drains or local sewer systems, aiming to alert viewers to potential issues.
Providing a visual perspective on the size of fatbergs, Knowles shared striking comparisons. “In urban areas, guided tours through drainage systems are possible. A fatberg near Terminal Five at Heathrow was equivalent in size to seven hundred suitcases or five football pitches,” he illustrated.
