What Are Common Plumbing Myths?

Plumbing is one of those systems in our homes that we often overlook unless there's a problem. When issues arise, we might lean on classic advice from friends and family over the years. However, not all plumbing knowledge is created equal, and many common beliefs can lead to further problems rather than solutions, but a plumber can help.

Here, we'll debunk some of the most prevalent plumbing myths and offer advice to keep your pipes, fixtures, and appliances in excellent working order.

It's a great-smelling idea, but tossing lemon peels in your garbage disposal isn't the powerful cleaner you might think it is. Lemon can temporarily mask odors, but it won't clean the blades or remove built-up gunk. In fact, the citrus acid can corrode metal parts over time.

The Reality: To effectively clean a garbage disposal, use ice cubes to help dislodge debris, followed by a small amount of dish soap for a thorough clean. Regular maintenance and specifically designed cleaners will keep your disposal smelling fresh and operating properly.

Some homeowners might think a little water never hurt anyone, but even a small leak can lead to significant water damage over time. It can foster mold growth and cause structural issues.

The Reality: Any leak, no matter the size, is a red flag. It's best to address it immediately to avoid more extensive – and expensive – repairs down the line. Regularly monitor your home for water spots or signs of moisture, and remember, sometimes, the most troublesome leaks are the ones you can't see.

Hot water is often believed to help push grease down the drain, particularly when people are trying to wash away kitchen messes. The issue is that, eventually, the grease cools and solidifies – in the pipes.

The Reality: The best way to deal with grease is to contain it. Let it solidify in the pan or your plate, then scrape it into the trash. Running cold water at your disposal will help flush the grease before it can thicken.

The idea behind this myth is that running water will push food particles through the pipes, but this isn't always the case. While water is essential for helping debris move, it won't prevent all clogs.

The Reality: Moderation is key. Running water helps, but don't skimp on cleaning and maintaining your disposal. Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods like banana peels or potato peels down the drain, as these can create clogs even with water running.

The brick-in-the-toilet myth purports that you can save with each flush by displacing water. However, many modern toilets come with low-flow options and specific tank requirements that a brick can disrupt.

The Reality: Old-school tricks like these can cause more damage than good. If you want to save water, invest in a low-flow or dual-flush toilet and maintain it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

These products promise to dissolve anything in their path, but the truth is they're incredibly harsh—not just on clogs but also on plumbing.

The Reality: The strong chemicals can eat away at pipes over time, especially if they're older or made of sensitive materials. Instead, use a drain snake or call a professional plumber if you have a recurring clog.

There's a common belief that it can be flushed if something fits down the drain. This couldn't be further from the truth. Flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste can lead to serious blockages in your sewage system.

The Reality: Toilet paper and waste should only be flushed. Everything else, including "flushable" wipes, should go in the garbage, which can still cause major issues in your plumbing and the public sewage system.

When it comes to plumbing, the best plumbing advice is often the simplest. Regular maintenance, careful use, and timely repairs are your best tools for running your plumbing smoothly. With these debunked common myths in mind, you're better equipped to make informed decisions about how to treat your home's plumbing.

If you're still unsure about dealing with an issue, don't hesitate to call on experts like our team at Steady Flo Plumbing & Septic. Remember, when you have a plumbing concern, it's better to be safe than sorry. We provide a variety of services to help you keep your residential plumbing systems in top condition. Contact us today for a free quote!