Let’s Dispel 10 Common Plumbing Myths
Plumbing problems can be a real headache, but being tricked by widespread misconceptions can make them even worse. You could be harming different plumbing fixtures, pipes or plumbing appliances and not even realize it! Let’s clear up the confusion on these 10 plumbing misconceptions to stop unnecessary damage from cropping up.
Myth 1: You Can Use Toilets as Trash Cans
It may appear handy to flush tissues, napkins, cotton, hygiene products and other ‘seemingly’ flushable things down the drain, but it’s a bad idea. Toilets are only designed to handle organic waste and toilet tissue. Flushing other items can cause plumbing issues and costly repair work, so stick to the trash can for non-disposable items to avoid trouble.
Myth 2: It’s Safe to Use Flushable Wipes
In spite of what the label claims, flushable wipes are not safe for your pipes and drainage. These wipes won’t break down like toilet paper and can obstruct your sewer pipe. Even if they make it past your plumbing system, flushable wipes accumulate in the wider sewage system, causing headaches for waste management. Taxpayer dollars could be saved on sewer cleanup projects each year if everyone disposed of flushable wipes in the trash.
Myth 3: The Garbage Disposal Can “Dispose All”
Lots of people think the kitchen garbage disposal can break down everything, but that’s not correct. Food waste like animal bones, coffee grounds and even small pieces of eggshell can damage the disposal or form another clog in your plumbing. Fat is especially well known for blocking pipes. No matter how much you flush the sink with warm water, the fat gradually congeals and causes clogs. Pour hot grease into a container and throw it away once it solidifies.
Myth 4: Lemon Peels Clean Garbage Disposals
Tossing a few lemon peels into the garbage disposal could give it a fresh scent temporarily, but the citric acid and texture of the fibers of the peels can wear out the disposal’s spinning blades. A safer way to clean the garbage disposal is by tossing a handful of ice cubes into your fat and other debris without breaking the blades. Sodium bicarbonate and vinegar is another safe, thorough cleaning solution.
Myth 5: Ice Cubes Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades
First of all, garbage disposals don’t actually use sharp cutting edges to break pieces of food down—they use grinding tools to break down food. Ice cubes can help clean the disposal by removing debris, so go ahead and break down a handful now and then. Just don’t count on them to sharpen the blades.
Myth 6: Water Heaters Are Maintenance-Free Appliances
Water heaters should be given a regular schedule of professional maintenance to operate as efficiently as possible. After enough time, buildup can accumulate, reducing efficiency and shortening your water heater’s max life span. Cleaning out the tank and checking the water heater’s anode rod annually are the most useful steps to keep your water heater in good shape.
Myth 7: Tightening a Leaking Faucet Will Stop the Drip
A leaking faucet often suggests a worn-out washer or mechanism, not a loose fitting. Over-tightening can wear out the threads and exacerbate the problem. Instead of tightening the handle down further, reach out to a plumber to fix the main issue.
Myth 8: All Plumbers Are the Same
Even though they’re all plumbers, you can’t just pick anyone out of the phone book. Certification, work experience and word of mouth can make a big difference in the quality of your plumbing service. Opting for a cheap plumber without the appropriate background could end up costing you more over time.
Myth 9: Anyone Can Install Their Own Plumbing Fixtures
Putting in plumbing fixtures is more in-depth than just screwing on parts. Systems for residential plumbing are intricate, and improper installation can lead to leaks, flooding and the costly repairs that come with them. Avoid the headache by hiring a professional plumber for fixture installation.
Myth 10: Plumbing Problems Always Announce Themselves
More insidious plumbing problems are sometimes hard to spot until they escalate. A seemingly minor leak might not make itself known until it’s resulted in widespread structural damage. Regular plumbing inspections are a good way to spot hidden problems earlier to help them from turning into an enormous headache.
Get Professional Plumbing Assistance
At Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we provide professional services for all your plumbing needs. Our professionals have the knowledge to keep everything moving 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 count on us to resolve the issue. Contact us today for dependable plumbing services at an affordable price.
