The Strangest Things We’ve Found in Pipes (And How to Avoid Them)

    ​As a Cape Cod plumber, I’ve seen my fair share of weird plumbing problems—but some of the things that have gone down toilets and sinks still make me shake my head. From dead fish to toys, homeowners are often surprised by what can cause a clog or worse. Here are some of the strangest things we’ve found—and tips to help you avoid these nightmares in your own home.

​1. Dead Fish in a Toilet
     Yes, you read that right. One time, we got a call for a blocked toilet. No matter what we tried, the blockage just wouldn’t budge. We even removed the toilet and could tell something was really stuck in the S-trap.
After a bit of digging, we finally pulled it out—and it was a dead discus fish! Just the perfect size to get wedged in the trap and completely block the toilet.
Tip to avoid: Never flush pets, aquarium animals, or anything other than toilet paper. Even “flushable” wipes can create problems over time.

2. Toys and Jewelry… Oh My!
     Kids—and sometimes adults—have a knack for losing things in toilets and sinks. One time, we had a blocked toilet and pulled out a “Grow-in-Water Dino,” and on another job, we retrieved a few gold necklaces from a clogged sink drain.
Tip to avoid: Keep small objects out of bathrooms and kitchens, and use drain covers or strainers in sinks and tubs. It’s an easy way to prevent a minor mishap from turning into a plumbing headache.

3. Fatbergs and Grease Clogs
     Grease, cooking oil, and fat may seem harmless when poured down the kitchen sink, but over time, they solidify and combine with soap and food particles to create a “fatberg.” These stubborn clogs can block drains—or even entire sewer lines—leading to expensive repairs.We once encountered a kitchen sink trap that was completely solid with grease after a tenant decided it would be a good idea to pour an entire pan of bacon grease down the drain. Needless to say, it was a messy and time-consuming cleanup.
Tip to avoid: Never pour grease or oil down drains. Collect it in a container and dispose of it in the trash once it cools.

4. Safety Tip + Call-to-Action
     Many of the weirdest clogs we’ve encountered could have been avoided with simple maintenance and awareness. Regularly check drains, educate kids, and never flush or pour anything unusual down toilets or sinks.
If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog—or want to make sure your plumbing is free from hidden surprises--use our quick online contact form. Snap a picture, send it over, and we’ll give you clear advice and a plan to fix it. No phone tag, no stress—just expert help from a local Cape Cod plumber.

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