8 Plumbing Myths Debunked

It’s time to separate fact from fiction. Below are seven of the popular dilemmas that come up with plumbing systems and how you might want to consider addressing them. 

1. Flushable Wipes Are Flushable

False. The packaging might say “Flushable,” but unless the material dissolves similarly to toilet paper, you are better off tossing it in the trash. If it’s too late, consider these tips for unclogging your toilet. Keep in mind these items should also go in the trash rather than the toilet:

1. Flushable wipes
2. Baby wipes
3. Paper towels
4. Sanitary pads and tampons
5. Cat litter 

2. Leaky Faucets Can Be Ignored

False. Do not hesitate. Locate the leak, if you can. Turn off the water, and call a plumber. It will save you money and headaches in the long run. Fixing a leaky faucet can save as much as 10% on your water bill. The slow drip of a leaky faucet adds up and according to the  Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) , it can waste up to 90 gallons of water per day.

3. I Can Use A Wire Hanger to Snake The Drain And Clear A Clog

Use Extreme Caution. This method while potentially effective is also potentially problematic. The wire hanger could damage the piping, allowing for clogs and deterioration to occur down the line. 

4. I Can Put Grease Down the Drain, And Hot Water Will Help It Go Down

False. Grease and oil should never go down the drain. While hot water may keep that grease and oil liquefied to get it down the drain, it will cool and solidify further down and cause a clog. 

5. Ice Cubes Sharpen The “Blades” Of Your Garbage Disposal

While this is not true, ice cubes can help clean parts of your garbage disposal that become coated with bits and pieces of the food you scrape into it. People also commonly clean garbage disposals with eggshells – they’re good at scraping but also break down easily.

6. Showering During A Lightning Storm Is Okay

False. This is one myth that sounds reasonable but is actually very dangerous. Water and metal are both conductors of electricity. Showering combines the two and increases the risk of electrocution, especially during a storm with the potential for lightning. You actually should not shower during a storm.

7. Water Pressure Should Fluctuate 

False. Anyone with thick hair will tell you – water pressure is important. It should also stay relatively consistent. If you notice your water pressure is great one minute, and the next you can barely rinse the shampoo from your hair, it is a good idea to call your plumber to check it out.

8. Bleach tablets will keep the toilet clean

Chemical tablets should never be placed in the toilet or its tank. To clean your toilet, we suggest using cleaners that are specifically designed for a toilet – the different parts of a toilet are delicate and can be destroyed if they come in contact with too much bleach. If you’re set on using bleach, it’s best to put some bleach in the bowl, but to flush it within 10 minutes to prevent damage.

When in Doubt – Call the Professionals