5 Plumbing Myths You Shouldn’t Believe

Plumbing is an essential part of any home or building, but it is also a field that is surrounded by a number of myths and misconceptions. From old wives' tales about how to unclog a drain to misinformation about what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet, there are many plumbing myths that can cause confusion and even cause problems if followed. In this article, we will be debunking some common plumbing myths and providing accurate and reliable information about how to maintain and repair your plumbing system.

1.   Some wipes are flushable.

It is important to remember that just because a product is marketed as "flushable," like baby or personal wipes, does not necessarily mean that it is safe to flush down the toilet. These wipes do not dissolve in the same way that toilet paper does, and can easily cause blockages in drains and pipes. The same is true for paper towels and feminine hygiene products. When these products are continually used and flushed, it can eventually lead to clogged toilets and plumbing issues. It is best to dispose of these items in the trash to avoid potential plumbing problems.

2.   A faucet that is leaking is not a big deal if the drip is slow.

A leaky faucet, even if it is just a slow drip, can be a problem for a few reasons. Firstly, it can waste a significant amount of water over time, which can lead to higher water bills. Depending on the size of the leak and the frequency with which it occurs, a slow drip can still waste hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water per year.

In addition to the financial cost, a leaky faucet can also be an environmental problem. Water is a precious resource, and the wasteful use of water can contribute to water shortages and other environmental issues.A leaky faucet can also cause damage to the sink or vanity it is installed in. The constant dripping of water can wear away at the material, leading to larger holes or even structural damage. Finally, even the sound of a slow drip can be annoying and disruptive to your daily routine.

If your faucet is leaking, it is important to have a plumber come out to inspect the leak and repair the cause.

3.   Lemons are a good way to clean your garbage disposal.

Lemons are often suggested as a natural way to freshen and clean the garbage disposal, but they are not the most effective method for a few reasons. Firstly, lemons are acidic, but they are not strong enough to dissolve many types of food waste or remove tough stains or odors from the garbage disposal.

While the citric acid in lemons may help to neutralize some odors and provide a pleasant scent, it is not a powerful enough cleaning agent to fully clean the garbage disposal. In fact, the acidity of lemons can be corrosive to certain materials and may cause damage to the disposal or pipes over time.

There are more effective methods for cleaning the garbage disposal, such as using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, or a store-bought garbage disposal cleaner. These products are specifically designed to clean and deodorize the disposal and are less likely to cause damage.

4.   Water pressure that fluctuates is normal.

Fluctuating water pressure, or the sudden changes in the strength and flow of water from your faucets and appliances, can be a sign of a plumbing issue. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a clogged water line, a problem with the water pump, or an issue with the water pressure regulator.

A sudden drop in water pressure can be frustrating and make it difficult to use appliances and fixtures that rely on a strong water flow, such as showers, dishwashers, and washing machines. On the other hand, an increase in water pressure can be equally problematic. High water pressure can put a strain on pipes and appliances, and can lead to leaks or even bursts. It can also cause damage to the seals and gaskets in appliances, leading to further issues.

If you are experiencing fluctuating water pressure, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your plumbing system. A licensed plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and provide a solution.

5.   You can pour hot grease down the kitchen sink.

Pouring hot grease down the kitchen sink can be a problem because it can solidify and clog the pipes. As the grease cools, it will congeal and adhere to the sides of the pipes, eventually forming a blockage. This can lead to slow drains, bad odors, and even sewage backups. In addition to causing problems with your plumbing, pouring hot grease down the sink can also be a fire hazard. If the grease comes into contact with the heating elements of the garbage disposal or drain pipes, it can ignite and cause a fire.

To avoid these problems, it is important to properly dispose of grease and oil. The best way to do this is to let it cool and solidify, and then dispose of it in the trash. You can also collect the grease in a container and recycle it at a facility that processes cooking oils.

Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beach goer operating out of Southern New Jersey.