Fall is officially here, which means one thing: PUMPKIN EVERYTHING! From pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin bread, pumpkin cookies, and pumpkin pie to pumpkin dog treats and even pumpkin pizza, it’s clear that pumpkin fever is in full swing. But while pumpkins can make for delicious treats and festive décor, there’s one place they absolutely don’t belong—your plumbing system!

Pumpkins + Plumbing = A Recipe for Disaster

Whether you grab your pumpkins from a local pumpkin patch or a grocery store, carving them is a cherished fall tradition. However, the aftermath of pumpkin carving can create quite a mess. You might be tempted to throw the “guts” down the garbage disposal for an easy clean-up, but that’s one mistake that could come back to haunt your pipes!

Why Shouldn’t You Put Pumpkin “Guts” Down the Drain?

Those slimy, gooey pumpkin guts—complete with fibrous strands and seeds—are the arch-enemies of your plumbing system. Here’s why:

1. Tangled Trouble: The fibers from pumpkin guts are notorious for wrapping around garbage disposal blades, making it nearly impossible for them to function properly. This tangling can cause serious damage, potentially leading to the need for a replacement.
2. Sticky Situation: Any pumpkin guts that make it past the garbage disposal aren’t out of the woods. As they travel through your pipes, they can stick to the sides of your drains and harden over time. This sticky residue becomes a magnet for other waste, creating a stubborn buildup that could clog your pipes.
3. Sneaky Seeds: Pumpkin seeds may seem small and harmless, but they can’t break down easily. Instead, they contribute to pipe clogs and backups, potentially requiring a costly drain cleaning.

Even a small amount of pumpkin residue left on your hands can do damage if it gets washed down the sink. Imagine washing your hands after carving, only to send a clog brewing in your kitchen drain. Not fun!

How to Protect Your Plumbing This Pumpkin Season

We know pumpkin carving can get messy, but there are ways to keep your plumbing safe while enjoying this fall favorite:

• Carve Pumpkins Away from the Sink: Set up a designated pumpkin carving station with old newspapers, cardboard, or a tarp to catch the mess. This keeps the slimy guts far away from your sink.
• Use a Spoon, Not the Sink: Scoop out the pumpkin guts with a spoon and place them directly into a trash bag or compost bin. Avoid using the sink as a “rinse station” for your tools or hands.
• Wipe Before Washing: Use a dry towel or paper towel to wipe your hands free of any sticky pumpkin fibers before heading to the sink.



Keep Your Fall Festivities Fun and Your Drains Clear

The last thing you want is a plumbing issue spoiling your fall fun. By keeping pumpkin guts and seeds far away from your kitchen sink, you’ll save yourself from the hassle and expense of potential drain repairs.

So go ahead—carve those pumpkins, enjoy your pumpkin spice everything, and keep your plumbing in tip-top shape. But if you do find yourself facing a pumpkin-caused plumbing predicament, don’t worry. Give Duncan Plumbing a call, and we’ll squash those plumbing problems for good!