Halloween is just around the corner, and we all know what that means — excess candy, trick-or-treating, costume parties and pumpkin carving. Due to these festivities, however, it is common this time of year to experience plumbing issues. Clogged pipes and other problems may arise if you put pumpkin pulp and seeds down sinks or toilets in your home for instance.
This Halloween, we want you to enjoy the festivities without the trouble of common plumbing issues.
Why Pumpkin Pulp and Seeds Cause a Problem for Drains
Every year around Halloween, we receive numerous calls from people who have tried to flush pumpkin pulp down the drains in their homes. We know why this is tempting: Pumpkin pulp turns sticky when wet and looks like it is meant to be flushed. However, when the pulp mixture dries, it can become like glue in your pipes. The mixture clings to the walls of your drain pipes and quickly forms a clog. At this point, many people reach for liquid drain cleaners, which, unfortunately, do no do much to unclog your pipes.
How to Avoid Common Halloween Plumbing Problems
Flushing pumpkin seeds and pulp down the toilets or sinks in your home is one of the leading causes of plumbing problems. Luckily, there are other ways you can dispose of them! Here are some alternative steps to take when looking to dispose of your pumpkin pulp:
- Add them to your compost pile: A decomposing pumpkin is one of the best things you can do for your compost pile. Pumpkins are 90 percent water and break down quickly into the soil. Many farms and gardens also collect leftover pumpkins, so be sure to search around for options.
- Cut your pumpkin into pieces for the animals: The wildlife in your backyard will thank you for this one. Many animals will eat leftover pumpkin parts within days, saving you the hassle of disposing of them! If you want to get more creative, remove the seeds from your pumpkins and mix them in with birdfeed. Or, scatter the seeds on a tray to make them more accessible.
- Save the seeds for planting: Planting your leftover pumpkin seeds is a great way to harvest pumpkins next year. You'll save money on pumpkins next Halloween, too, if you have them growing in your backyard.
- Roast the seeds: You can always eat the pumpkin seeds yourself! After you have scraped out the pumpkin, put the pulp and the seeds into a large bowl. The seeds will float to the top. Scoop up the seeds and pat them dry. Then, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and roast the seeds for approximately 45 minutes. Add salt and butter for better taste!
Contact Mr. Rooter of Greater Syracuse Today
Our team can repair any plumbing issues your Halloween festivities have caused. If you're interested in learning more about plumbing maintenance, repair or installation, feel free to visit our website or contact a licensed professional at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. And, as always, if you suspect a plumbing issue in your home, call 315-472-1203 or fill out our online contact form today for a free quote.