Owning a home is one of life’s biggest investments, and just like any investment, it takes care and attention to protect its value. As a Realtor here in Mueller, I’ve walked through hundreds of homes across Austin. Time and again, I see how the little things – like what goes down your drain – can make a huge difference in keeping a home running smoothly.
It might not be the first thing you think of when you consider home maintenance, but your plumbing system is one of your home’s unsung heroes. Take care of it, and it will quietly do its job. Neglect it, and you may find yourself facing expensive repairs, unexpected leaks, or even damage that affects your home’s market value.
So, let’s talk about the 9 things you should never pour down the drain – and more importantly, what you should do instead, especially here in Austin where we have great resources to make disposal easy.
Why Protecting Your Drains Protects Your Home’s Value
The Hidden Costs of Plumbing Mistakes
Plumbing issues are rarely cheap. A simple clog can cost a few hundred dollars to fix, but a burst pipe or sewer backup? That can set you back thousands. Even worse, if water damage spreads, you could be looking at mold remediation, drywall replacement, and flooring repairs. As a Realtor, I’ve seen deals fall apart because of hidden water damage or plumbing issues. Buyers want peace of mind, and plumbing red flags can be deal-breakers.
How Drain Habits Impact Long-Term Home Maintenance
The good news is, most of these problems are preventable. Your daily habits – what you pour, rinse, or flush – directly affect the health of your plumbing system. By avoiding a few common mistakes, you can save yourself stress, money, and protect your home’s long-term value.
Common Household Items That Should Never Go Down the Drain
Cooking Grease and Oils
👉 Austin Solution: Don’t pour it down the sink. Instead, drop off used cooking oil at Austin’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility. You can also let it solidify in a container and toss it in your green compost cart.
Coffee Grounds
👉 Austin Solution: Compost them! Austin’s curbside composting program accepts coffee grounds, or use them in your garden as a natural fertilizer.
Pasta, Rice, and Starchy Foods
👉 Austin Solution: Scrape leftovers into your green compost cart. Austin accepts all food scraps citywide.
Eggshells
👉 Austin Solution: Toss them in your compost cart. Crushed eggshells also enrich soil in your home garden.
Flour and Baking Ingredients
👉 Austin Solution: Compost unused flour or dough scraps through the city’s curbside compost program.
Paint, Solvents, and Harsh Chemicals
👉 Austin Solution: Drop them off at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility, where they’re safely processed. Bonus: you can pick up free reusable paint at the facility’s Reuse Store!
Medications
👉 Austin Solution: Take them to official drug disposal kiosks around the city or participate in National Prescription Take-Back Day events.
Produce Stickers
👉 Austin Solution: Peel them off before rinsing and toss them in the trash. Austin’s compost program does not accept them.
Flushable Wipes and Paper Towels
👉 Austin Solution: Stick to toilet paper. Toss wipes and paper towels in the trash, or if food-soiled, put paper towels in the green compost cart.
How Small Habits Can Save Big on Home Repairs
Real Estate Perspective: Protecting Resale Value
When it comes time to sell your home in Mueller or anywhere in Austin, buyers notice the details. A well-maintained home – with plumbing that works seamlessly – tells buyers the home has been cared for. Even small things like updated plumbing fixtures or a clean inspection report can make your property stand out.
Budgeting for Preventative Home Maintenance
Think of plumbing care as an investment. Spending a little time (and sometimes a little money) on prevention can save you thousands later. Keep an annual maintenance budget – just like you would for landscaping or HVAC.
Pro Tips for Homeowners in Mueller and Beyond
- Use compost kitchen pail. The City of Austin sometimes gives them away for free at certain community events! Be sure to check the Austin Recycles app (Apple App Store, Google Play), AustinRecycles.com event calendar, or the Austin Recycles Facebook page.
- Sink strainers are a cheap and easy way to catch debris.
- Ask your plumber during inspections about potential freeze risks – especially important after Austin’s winter storm lessons.
Conclusion: Protect Your Drains, Protect Your Home
Here in Austin, we’re lucky. Between curbside composting, hazardous waste facilities, and medication disposal programs, there’s no reason to rely on your drains for disposal.
As a Realtor in the Mueller community, I see firsthand how well-maintained homes stand out. By avoiding these nine drain mistakes – and using Austin’s disposal programs – you’re not just preventing clogs. You’re protecting your home’s value, your plumbing system, and our city’s environment.
👩💼 Thinking About Buying or Selling?
I love helping neighbors keep their homes in top shape – not just for today, but for when it’s time to sell. If you’re curious about your home’s current value, or you’re considering buying in our vibrant Mueller community, I’d love to connect.
📞 Reach out anytime – (512) 809-3497 or [email protected] I’m always happy to talk real estate or how to care for your home!