Let’s Debunk 10 Common Plumbing Myths

Trying to deal with a problematic plumbing system can be a real headache, but being tricked by widespread misconceptions often makes them even more problematic. You might be harming your plumbing’s taps, pipes or even major fixtures and not even be aware of it! Let’s clear up the confusion on these 10 plumbing misconceptions to stop avoidable problems from occurring.

Myth 1: Toilets Make Great Garbage Cans 

It may look handy to flush tissues, paper towels, cotton balls, hygiene products and other ‘seemingly’ flushable objects down the toilet, but this is a bad idea. Toilets are only built to handle organic waste and toilet paper. Flushing other items can lead to blockages and costly repair work, so opt for the trash can for non-disposable objects to avoid trouble.

Myth 2: Flushable Wipes Won’t Harm Your Plumbing

Despite what the label claims, flushable wipes are not safe for your pipes. These wipes don’t disintegrate like bath tissue and can obstruct your sewer pipe. Even if they can make it through your home’s plumbing, flushable wipes accumulate in the broader sewer system, leading to problems for sanitation workers. Taxpayer dollars can be saved on sewer cleanup projects each year if everyone threw away flushable wipes properly.

Myth 3: Garbage Disposals Can Handle Anything

Lots of people think the kitchen garbage disposal can break down everything, but that’s not correct. Items like chicken bones, coffee grinds and eggshells can ruin the disposal or block your plumbing. Grease is particularly notorious for blocking drains. No matter how much you rinse the drain with boiling water, the grease gradually hardens and causes plumbing issues. Pour oil into a sealable jar and throw it away once it cools down. 

Myth 4: You Can Clean Your Garbage Disposals with Lemon Peels 

Throwing lemon peels in your garbage disposal may freshen the scent temporarily, but the acidity and fibrous nature of the peels can wear out the blades. The best way to freshen the garbage disposal is by sending a handful of ice washes away grease and other buildup without damaging the blades. Baking soda and vinegar is another safe, thorough cleaning solution. 

Myth 5: You Can Sharpen Disposal Blades with Ice 

First of all, garbage disposals don’t actually use sharp blades to break food down—they use duller metal to pulverize food. Ice cubes can help clean the disposal by removing debris, so feel free to break down a handful occasionally. Just don’t count on them to sharpen anything. 

Myth 6: Water Heaters Are Maintenance-Free Appliances 

Water heaters need regular maintenance to run at their best. Over time, buildup can collect inside, decreasing efficiency and potentially limiting your water heater’s life span. Flushing the tank and checking the anode once a year are the most useful steps to keep that water heater in good shape. 

Myth 7: If a Faucet Leaks, Try Closing It Tighter 

A leaking faucet often indicates a damaged seal or mechanism, not a handle that’s come loose. Over-tightening may wear out the threads and worsen the leak. Rather than tightening the handle down further, reach out to a plumber to fix the underlying problem. 

Myth 8: Every Plumber Offers the Same Service

Not all plumbers are created equal. Licensing, experience and reviews can make a big difference in the quality of your plumbing project. Selecting a cheap plumber without the right credentials could end up costing you more in the long run.

Myth 9: You Can Always Handle Your Own Plumbing Fixture Installation

Installing plumbing fixtures involves more than tightening screws. Plumbing systems are still somewhat complicated, and improper setup can cause leaks, flooding and the high repair costs that come with them. Minimize the risk of trouble by calling a professional plumber for fixture installation.

Myth 10: Plumbing Issues Are Always Obvious

Some plumbing problems are sometimes hard to notice until they start causing real trouble. A seemingly minor leak might not make itself known until it’s resulted in widespread structural damage. Professional plumbing inspections are a good way to identify unseen problems earlier to prevent them from becoming major headaches.

Contact a Plumber for More Help

At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we offer professional services for all your plumbing needs. Our professionals have the expertise to keep everything working smoothly, from your fixtures and sewer lines to your water heater and garbage disposal. If you are not entirely happy with our work, you can rely on us to fix it. Contact us today for dependable plumbing services at an affordable price.