Debunking Common Plumbing Myths

If you’ve ever had to turn off water to your home for any reason, then you know exactly how dependent we are on running water. We use it constantly for washing dishes, flushing the toilet, cleaning our hands, etc. Having functional plumbing is absolutely essential to the rhythm of our lives, which makes the proper maintenance of those systems a top priority. Let’s start debunking common plumbing myths.

Unfortunately, we have a tendency to take these systems for granted. Over the years, dozens of myths have emerged around plumbing as a way to put off hiring a professional. Although these myths may give you some solace initially, they could eventually cost you thousands of dollars in repairs that would have been much more affordable if a professional had addressed the problem early on. To prevent that exact situation let’s debunk some of the most common plumbing myths.

Lemon Peels Will Not Clean Your Garbage Disposal

If you put lemon peels down your garbage disposal, it is true that it will smell nicer. However, the citric acid naturally found in lemons will also damage your garbage disposal along the way. A 1 horsepower garbage disposal may take this abuse for a while, but even that powerful machine will eventually lose some functionality.

A Leaky Faucet Is a Big Deal

Seeing a drip every once in a while is easy to write off as a minor issue that can be ignored. In truth, that tiny drip is costing you money every day, and it can quickly add up over the weeks and months that you put off a repair. The EPA estimates that leaks just like yours waste roughly one trillion gallons of water annually.

Don’t Put a Brick in Your Toilet Tank

Putting a brick in your toilet tank can actually damage the system over time while providing a minimal return. If you are determined to save water, consider replacing your current toilet with a low-flow model. That may sound like a much pricier option, but you could end up replacing far more than that if you leave a brick in your toilet tank.

Don’t Flush “Flushable” Wipes

These poorly named products may go down the toilet when you flush, but that doesn’t mean they won’t cause problems. Unlike toilet paper, wipes do not break down quickly. As a result, it is easy for them to build up in your pipes, causing increasingly serious clogging. It is far better to throw them away in the bathroom trash or diaper pail. Alternatively, if you just prefer a cleaner sensation after using the restroom, consider installing a bidet attachment. If you continue to flush your wipes, you will most definitely end up calling for sewer and rooter services in Highland Park.

Drain Cleaners Are Not a Replacement for a Plumber

Drain cleaners contain powerfully corrosive chemicals that are terrible for the environment and your drains. While they can sometimes succeed in breaking up smaller clogs or pushing clogs further down the pipe, they do so much damage that they simply aren’t worth it.

A Plunger Is Not a Fix-All

Plungers are great for that odd clog. Just make sure you’re using the right plunger for the job in the appropriate fashion. You heard that right. There are different types of plungers. If your plunger isn’t getting the job done, then it’s time to call your rooter service in Highland Park.

Hot Water Cannot Prevent Grease Clogs

While hot water may help to move some solidified grease further down the line that doesn’t eliminate your problem. It’s still in your pipes, and it will resolidify once it is no longer in contact with very hot water. Over time, those layers of grease will continue to build up, and you will eventually have a major clog.

Practicing Better Habits

Functional plumbing is a major asset. Hopefully, with this information you will be able to better maintain your current plumbing system. From now on, your annual inspection should reveal any issues before they become a serious problem.