The sink drain, plagued by bad odors and mold. To solve this, some people pour boiling water into the sink daily for plumbing disinfection. However, this action can actually damage the sink, so caution is advised.
According to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) used in sink plumbing softens at around 60-70℃. The risk of deformation increases above 80℃. At temperatures above 100℃, the plumbing becomes very weak and its safety decreases. Of course, pouring hot water occasionally won't cause immediate problems.
However, if hot water is poured repeatedly every day, the plumbing may stretch or the connections may become loose. There is also a significant risk of leaks due to micro-cracks. If a leak occurs in the plumbing, repair costs can range from 50,000 won to as much as 800,000 won. The cost varies depending on whether it is a simple leak repair or if plumbing replacement is necessary. If you want to clean the drain, it is recommended to use water below 60℃ mixed with a neutral dish soap. Avoid pouring hot water after cleaning with bleach. Using bleach and hot water together can produce harmful gases that are not good for respiratory health.
