Debunking Plumbing Myths About Misconceptions and Common Mistakes

Trying to deal with a problematic plumbing system can be a real nuisance, but falling for popular misconceptions often makes them even more problematic. You might be harming different plumbing fixtures, pipes or plumbing appliances and not even be aware of it! Let’s clear up the confusion on these 10 plumbing misconceptions to stop unnecessary problems from happening. 

Myth #1: You’ll Know When You Have a Plumbing Problem

More insidious plumbing problems might be difficult to detect until they start causing real trouble. A seemingly minor leak might not be noticeable until it’s caused significant structural damage. Routine plumbing inspections can help spot unseen problems earlier to stop them from escalating into major headaches.

Myth #2: You Can Put Anything in the Garbage Disposal

Many people believe their garbage disposal can handle everything, but that’s not correct. Items like chicken bones, coffee grinds and even small pieces of eggshell can ruin the disposal or form another clog in your drainage. Fat is especially infamous for blocking pipes. No matter how much you try and clear out the pipes with hot water, the fat eventually solidifies and causes clogs. Pour oil into a hard container and dispose of it once it cools.

Myth #3: If a Faucet Leaks, Try Closing It Tighter

A leaking faucet usually suggests a damaged gasket or cartridge, not a handle that’s come loose. Over-tightening could damage the threads and exacerbate the drip. Rather than cranking the handle down further, reach out to a plumber to address the underlying problem.

Myth #4: It’s Safe to Use Flushable Wipes

In spite of what the label claims, flushable wipes aren’t safe for your pipes. These wipes won’t disintegrate like toilet paper and can obstruct your sewer pipe. Even if they make it past your home’s plumbing, flushable wipes accumulate in the broader sewer system, leading to problems for utility workers. Thousands of tax dollars might be saved on sewer cleanup projects each year if everyone disposed of flushable wipes properly.

Myth #5: You Don’t Need to Maintain New Water Heaters

Water heaters require a regular schedule of professional maintenance to operate at their best. Over time, residue can accumulate, lowering performance and potentially limiting your water heater’s total service life. Flushing the tank and checking the anode once yearly are the most useful steps to keep the water heater in working order.

Myth #6: Toilets Make Great Garbage Cans

It might seem handy to flush facial tissues, napkins, cotton pads, feminine hygiene products and other ‘seemingly’ flushable things down the drain, but this is a bad choice. Toilets are only designed to handle organic waste and toilet paper. Flushing other objects can lead to clogs and costly repair work, so use the trash can for non-disposable things to avoid trouble.

Myth #7: Lemon Peels Clean Garbage Disposals

Putting lemon peels in your garbage disposal might make it smell better temporarily, but the acidity and fibrous nature of the peels can wear out the blades. A better way to freshen the garbage disposal is by sending a handful of ice into your, which helps remove fat and other buildup without damaging the blades. Common household items like baking soda and vinegar is another safer, more thorough option for cleaning the disposal.

Myth #8: Sharpening Disposal Blades with Ice Cubes

First of all, garbage disposals don’t actually use sharp blades to break food down—they use grinders to break down food. Ice cubes can help freshen the disposal by breaking up buildup, so feel free to break down a handful occasionally. Just don’t wait for them to make the disposal sharper.

Myth #9: It’s Easy to Install Plumbing Fixtures Yourself

Installing plumbing fixtures is more in-depth than just screwing on parts. Systems for residential plumbing are still somewhat complicated, and improper placement can result in leaks, water damage and the costly repairs that come with them. Avoid the headache by contacting a professional plumber for installation projects.

Myth #10: All Plumbers Are the Same

Plumbing services can vary significantly in quality. Licensing, experience and reputation can make a big difference in the success of your plumbing service. Opting for an untrained plumber without the appropriate background might end up costing you more in the long run.

Call Mark Allen for the Best Local Plumbers

At Mark Allen, we offer professional solutions for all your plumbing needs. Our professionals have the expertise to keep everything running smoothly, from your bathroom fixtures and sewer lines to your water heater and garbage disposal. If you’re not completely happy with our work, you can count on us to make it right. Contact us today for affordable plumbing services at an affordable price.