5 Plumbing Myths You Should Never Believe

July 12, 2023

Many plumbing myths and misconceptions have emerged, leading homeowners astray and potentially causing costly plumbing issues. You can make informed decisions, prevent potential problems, and ensure the longevity and efficiency of your plumbing infrastructure by separating fact from fiction.

Here is an overview of five plumbing myths you shouldn’t believe to help you avoid unnecessary mishaps.

1. If You Can Flush It, There Is No Problem

The common plumbing misconception is that anything you can flush down the toilet is safe. However, you should only flush toilet paper and human excrement down your toilet. The wastewater system might get contaminated if you dump any other materials down the toilet or drain.

Throw feminine hygiene products, sanitary napkins, and flushable wipes in your garbage bin rather than your drains. Despite its name, flushable wipes do not disintegrate like toilet paper and can cause expensive plumbing problems by clogging drains.

You should double-check with your contractor or local sewage management organization before you flush anything down the toilet, even if it claims to be "flushable" on the packaging.

2. Commercial or Home-Made Drain Cleaners Can Solve Your Problems

The chemicals used in drain cleaners can cause serious injury and severe corrosion. If inhaled, their vapors can be toxic and their abrasive particles can irritate the skin and eyes. Drain cleaners are also unsafe because of the strong chemicals that might harm your pipes over time.

Another common plumbing myth involves the use of vinegar and baking soda. A chemical reaction may occur, but it may only temporarily displace the obstruction and not fix the underlying problem.

Using a plunger also increases the risk of splattering and spreading the produced froth. As a result, these do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions can produce foul sludge that spreads easily. If you have any plumbing problems, such as a blockage or leak, contact a professional plumber instead.

3. Hot Water Can Solve Your Grease or Clog Problems

The common belief is that flushing grease and other particles down the drain with hot water will be safe. Although the hot water may temporarily liquefy the grease, it will quickly solidify again as it cools and accumulates deeper down the pipes, causing a clog.

If you need to remove grime, cold water or a mixture of warm water and dish soap works best. In addition, many regulations ban hot water over 150 degrees Fahrenheit because it might cause pipe corrosion.

You shouldn’t flush grease down the toilet or sink to keep your pipes free of blockages and grease-related issues. Instead, transfer the grease to a suitable heatproof container before finally disposing it in the garbage.

If the clog has already formed and you have tried running cold water down the drain without success, call a professional plumber who can use their tools and training to remove the obstruction.

4. You Can Save Water with a Brick in Your Toilet

Plumbers warn against putting a brick in a toilet tank to save water, as this is ineffective and can lead to further complications. Deterioration of the brick in water can release clay, sand, or concrete particles, which can then clog the plumbing in the toilet.

In addition, the toilet works best and is efficient when filled to the tank's designated capacity. Going below that mark can negatively affect its function. Installing a water-efficient toilet is a more practical and long-lasting alternative.

5. A Leaky Faucet Is a Negligible Issue

A common misconception is that a dripping faucet is harmless and needs no repairs. A dripping faucet is more than an annoyance as it can cause severe problems and even cost you money. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), leaks in the home can waste over 2600 gallons of water per year.

A persistent leak wastes water, adds to your water bill, damages the faucet and pit, or taints your pipes. This extra damage may necessitate expensive maintenance or replacement. Rapid response is vital when dealing with a dripping sink.

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