Why you should never pour boiling water down the sink
You've just cooked pasta or blanched vegetables and need to get rid of a pot full of boiling water.
TL;DR
- Boiling water can damage plastic pipes not rated for high temperatures (above 60°C).
- The thermal shock from sudden temperature changes can cause pipes and porcelain sinks/toilets to crack.
- Repeated exposure to boiling water can soften, deform, or crack plastic pipes, leading to leaks.
- Hot water causes pipes to expand and contract, weakening joints over time.
- The risk of damage is higher in colder temperatures when pipes are already cold.
- To avoid damage, cool the water before pouring it down the drain or run cold water simultaneously.
- Using sink strainers to catch food scraps and avoiding pouring grease, coffee grounds, pasta, or potato peels down the drain are recommended preventative measures.