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As temperatures drop, households across the UK are turning to quick tricks to keep drains clear, but plumbing experts are warning that one recommendation could lead to costly damage. Many families pour boiling water down sinks in an attempt to clear grease or food build up.

However, Plumbworldsays this may be putting modern household pipes at risk. The company warns that the problem becomes more serious in winter, when pipes are already under more pressure due to lower temperatures and increased indoor water use.

Most modern homes use PVC pipes, which cannot withstand the extreme heat of boiling water. When boiling water hits the pipe, the temperature shock can cause the plastic to soften, warp, or even melt.

The glue that holds pipe joints together can loosen, and rubber seals can break down. Over time, this can lead to leaks hidden behind walls or under sinks, which may go unnoticed until the damage becomes severe.

Cold weather makes pipes contract, and sudden blasts ofboiling water can increase stress on already fragile sections. This raises the chance of cracks, loose joints, and slow leaks that can spread through floors or cupboards.

Another issue, according to the expert, is that boiling water rarely solves the problem households are trying to fix. Many people believe boiling water can clear greasy clogs, but it usually has the opposite effect.

Thick blockages made from soap, fat, or food waste do not dissolve fully. Instead, the boiling water can push the clog deeper into the system, making it harder to reach and more expensive to remove later.

Plumbing experts say the situation can become worse when boiling water is mixed with chemical cleaners or other DIY methods. The reaction between heat and certain products can be unpredictable and may cause pipe corrosion or sudden bursts.

Hot tap water from the faucet, which is warm but not boiling, can help wash away lighter build up. Letting pasta water cool slightly before pouring it down the sink can also prevent pipe damage.

For tougher clogs, a simple sink plunger can often release trapped debris. A drain snake or auger is another reliable tool that allows homeowners to break up or pull out blockages without harming the pipework.

Many households also use natural cleaning methods, such as a baking soda and vinegar mixture. Pouring half a cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar, letting it sit for around ten minutes, and rinsing with hot tap water can help clear minor clogs without risking structural damage to the pipes.