Let’s face it – plumbing isn’t exactly the hot topic at dinner parties. But when things go wrong, it suddenly becomes the only topic. Over the years, myths about plumbing have been passed around like family recipes (but with way worse outcomes). Some of these old-school beliefs can cost homeowners dearly, while others are just plain amusing.
Today, we’re busting the most common plumbing myths wide open. So, if you’ve ever believed that a leaky faucet is “no big deal” or thought pouring hot water down the drain solves everything, buckle up. Your friendly neighborhood plumbing company is here to set the record straight.
Myth #1: If It’s Draining, It’s Fine
It’s easy to assume that as long as water is going down the drain, everything’s working perfectly. But here’s the truth – just because water disappears doesn’t mean your pipes are happy.
Slow drains, gurgling sounds, or water backing up in unexpected places are early warning signs of clogs, blockages, or even venting issues. Ignoring them might lead to a full-blown plumbing disaster.
Pro Tip: If you notice your sink is draining slower than usual, don’t wait until it becomes a complete blockage. Call a local plumber to inspect the issue before it becomes an emergency.
Myth #2: Flushable Wipes Are Safe for Toilets
Despite the “flushable” label, most wipes are anything but. Unlike toilet paper, these wipes don’t break down quickly. They often get stuck in pipes and cause massive clogs that can back up your entire plumbing system.
Plumbing companies frequently encounter this issue. What starts as a “convenient alternative” can quickly become an expensive call to a plumber. So, unless you enjoy watching your plumber fish out a mountain of wipes, stick to good old toilet paper.
Myth #3: Lemon Peels Clean Your Garbage DisposalÂ
Tossing lemon peels down the garbage disposal might leave a fresh scent, but it’s not doing your disposal blades any favors. Citrus rinds can dull the blades and contribute to clogs, especially if you do it often.
To freshen up your garbage disposal, try using a mixture of ice cubes and vinegar. It helps sharpen the blades and clean off built-up grime, without the risk of clogging your pipes.
Myth #4: It’s Just a Leaky Faucet – No Big DealÂ
That constant drip-drip-drip sound isn’t just annoying – it’s money going down the drain. A leaky faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water a year. It may signal more significant issues, such as worn-out washers, corrosion, or excessive water pressure, which could damage your plumbing over time.
A trusted plumbing company can quickly fix a leaky faucet, saving you from high water bills and future headaches. Don’t let a small leak become a major issue.
Myth #5: Hot Water Melts Grease Down the Drain
This is one of the oldest myths in the book, and it’s a slippery slope (pun intended). Pouring hot water over grease may temporarily liquefy it, but once it cools, that grease hardens inside your pipes, leading to stubborn clogs.
The right way to dispose of grease? Let it cool, scrape it into a container, and toss it in the trash. Your pipes will thank you.
Myth #6: All Plumbers Are the SameÂ
Just because someone has a wrench doesn’t mean they’re qualified to tackle your plumbing issues. Not all plumbers (or plumbing companies) offer the same level of service, expertise, or professionalism.
Hiring a licensed and experienced local plumber ensures the job gets done right the first time. Whether it’s an emergency repair or a new installation, trusting a reputable plumbing company can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Myth #7: DIY Plumbing Fixes Are CheaperÂ
YouTube tutorials make everything look easy, right? But plumbing isn’t always a simple weekend project. Temporary DIY fixes often lead to bigger problems down the line, especially if you don’t have the right tools or know-how.
Plumbing systems are complex, and a quick fix can turn into a costly disaster if not handled properly. It’s always safer (and often cheaper) to call in a professional local plumber to do the job correctly from the start.
Myth #8: Bleach Tablets Keep Your Toilet Clean
Those bleach tablets that sit in your toilet tank might seem like a low-effort cleaning solution, but they can deteriorate the rubber flapper and other components inside the tank. Over time, this leads to leaks and costly repairs.
For a clean and healthy toilet, regular scrubbing and safe cleaning agents are the way to go. If your toilet has persistent issues, a plumbing company can provide long-term solutions.
Myth #10: Plungers Fix All Clogs
While plungers are great for minor clogs, they won’t solve deeper blockages in your plumbing system. If you find yourself plunging the same drain repeatedly, it’s a sign of a bigger problem lurking further down the line.
Professional plumbers utilize specialized tools, such as drain snakes and hydro-jetting equipment, to clear stubborn clogs effectively. So, if your plunger isn’t cutting it, it’s time to bring in the experts.
Why Knowing These Myths MattersÂ
Believing in plumbing myths isn’t just harmless fun – it can lead to expensive repairs, water damage, and a lot of unnecessary stress. Being informed helps you make better decisions for your home, saves you money, and keeps your plumbing system in top shape. Plus, when you know the facts, you’ll impress your friends the next time someone mentions throwing lemon peels down the sink (go ahead, you’ve earned that smug “actually…” moment).
Park Plumbing: Your Go-To Plumbing CompanyÂ
When it comes to protecting your home’s plumbing, you need a plumbing company that knows it inside and out. At Park Plumbing, we pride ourselves on being the most trusted plumbing company in the area. Our team of skilled local plumbers brings years of hands-on experience, ensuring every job is handled with care, precision, and a friendly attitude.
Whether it’s debunking myths, fixing leaks, or tackling emergency repairs, we’ve got your back. Contact Park Plumbing today to learn how our local plumbers can provide smart, reliable solutions for your home.
FAQsÂ
1. Are “flushable” wipes really safe to flush down the toilet?Â
Despite what the packaging claims, most “flushable” wipes are not safe for your toilet. Unlike toilet paper, these wipes do not break down quickly and can cause significant blockages in your plumbing system. Over time, they build up in pipes, leading to clogs, sewer backups, and expensive repairs. The safest practice is to dispose of wipes in the trash and stick to toilet paper for flushing.
2. Does pouring hot water down the drain help get rid of grease buildup?Â
This is a common plumbing myth that can lead to serious problems. While hot water might temporarily liquefy grease, once it cools, the grease solidifies and sticks to the inside of your pipes, eventually causing stubborn clogs. The correct way to dispose of grease is to let it cool, scrape it into a container, and throw it in the trash, not the sink.
3. Can a leaky faucet really cause significant water wastage?Â
Absolutely. Even a small drip can waste hundreds of gallons of water over the course of a year, leading to increased water bills and potential long-term damage to your plumbing system. Leaky faucets are often symptoms of worn-out washers, corrosion, or excessive water pressure. It’s best to have a professional plumber fix leaks promptly to avoid bigger, more costly issues down the road.
4. Do lemon peels effectively clean and freshen up a garbage disposal?Â
While lemon peels may leave a fresh scent temporarily, they do not clean your garbage disposal and can actually damage the blades. The citrus rinds can dull the blades and contribute to clogs, especially if used frequently. A better method is to use a mixture of ice cubes and vinegar to clean and sharpen disposal blades without risking plumbing blockages.
5. Is it true that all plumbers offer the same level of service and expertise?Â
Not all plumbers are created equal. The quality of service, level of expertise, and professionalism can vary greatly between plumbing companies. Hiring a licensed and experienced local plumber, like those at Park Plumbing, ensures that your plumbing issues are diagnosed and fixed correctly the first time. Choosing a reputable plumbing company saves you time, money, and prevents unnecessary frustration from improper repairs.
