Whether your kids are going back to school at school, or learning from home, there are a few lessons you can teach them outside the classroom. When it comes to keeping your plumbing in tip-top shape in your home, it is a family effort.
1. Running Water
Depending on their age and height, some kids may have to get on their tippy-toes to turn the faucet on and off, and sometimes it is just left running.
It is important to teach your kids to turn the water all the way off. Also to let them know when the water is dripping, it is not all the way off. This will help save you water and money in your household.
They should also be aware of what knob is for hot and which is for cold, to prevent burning their hands when using the sink.
2. Water Shut Off Valve
When your kids get older, they often spend more time in their own room or even may stay home alone.
Knowing where the water shut off valve is and how to shut it off can be helpful in case of major leaks and emergencies.
3. What Can and Cannot Go Down the Toilet
The toilet is not a place to play with toys. Some kids can be fascinated by the flushing of the toilet and watching their toys swirl down the drain.
Make sure to differentiate what can and cannot go down the toilet. Only waste, toilet paper, and water should go down the toilet.
Avoid flushing:
Flushable wipes
Hair
Toys
Q-Tips or cotton balls
Paper towels
Diapers
4. Garbage Disposal Safety
The garbage disposal can be dangerous, but when kids are doing their own dishes they should know to be careful. First is to never stick your hand down the disposal, especially when it’s on, it can do some serious damage.
Also mention what types of foods can cause clogs. Avoid putting these substances down the disposal:
Eggs or eggshells
Grease or any cooking oil
Coffee grounds
Foods with bones, stems or pits
Potato peels
5. Do’s and Don'ts of Dishes
Whether you teach your kids to hand wash the dishes or rinse them for the dishwasher, it is important to know some tips when cleaning them.
Explain that food scraps can cause the drain and disposal to become clogged. They should know the drain and disposal is not a substitute for a trash can.
Also rinsing the plates completely before putting them in the dishwasher is also important.
Dr Rooter of Lexington, are experts within the Lexington, SC, and surrounding areas and can provide plumbing services. Call us at (803) 398-2090 for all your plumbing needs.