We have all heard “old wives’ tales” throughout the years, but you might not think of them when it comes to plumbing. Yet, plumbing professionals hear plumbing myths every day that have been passed down through the years. Unfortunately, those inaccurate “facts” can lead to costly repairs for homeowners.
If homeowners believe common myths, it can create bigger plumbing issues and more costly repairs. The purpose of this article by Sun Plumbing is to inform our customers about common myths that our professionals hear every day. We will provide accurate, professional advice that will, hopefully, save you from costly plumbing repairs down the road. If it is too late and the damage has already been done, then don’t hesitate to call us!
Myth #1 “A dripping faucet is no big deal.”
Homeowners often ignore slow drips. They seem harmless and may fall to the bottom of the home repairs list, especially if they are in a rarely used bathroom. You might wonder how a bathroom is rarely used, but if someone lives alone or a couple has no kids or are empty-nesters, the guest bathroom may see little use.
Besides the ecological issue of wasting water, a drip (small or large) causes higher water use bills for the homeowner. It can also result in internal fixture damage caused by corrosion or wear and tear. Slow drips aren’t as harmless as they seem.
Common causes of a dripping faucet include worn washers, worn cartridges, or high pressure. These are easy repairs that can save you from further damage and high water use bills. The sooner the fix, the less long-term water waste and chance of fixture failure. If you aren’t handy, give us a call at Sun Plumbing, and we’ll fix that drip faster than the next drop can fall (almost!).
Myth #2 “Flushable wipes are actually flushable.”
As long as companies continue to label wipes as “flushable,” plumbers will be in business. Even “flushable” wipes do not break down like toilet paper. Because of that, they cause clogs and sewer backups which lead to expensive repairs. In septic tanks, flushable wipes can cause backups, reduce efficiency, and damage the system, even causing system failure. Flushable wipes and plumbing are not compatible.
Sun Plumbing recommends sticking with toilet paper. One-ply is best as it breaks down easier and faster than thicker versions, but we understand that it is a big ask. If you want or need thicker toilet paper, try to avoid scented options. Additionally, if you can find a biodegradable brand like those made from bamboo, that is a great option and better for your plumbing and the environment.
Myth #3 “Lemons clean your garbage disposal.”
This is a great example of an old wives’ tale. It sounds reasonable, right? Lemons are natural and smell great. Lemon scent is equated with cleanliness, often used in cleaning products. Lemons don’t disinfect or remove buildup. They can dull your disposal blades and even clog your disposal with pulp. For the fresh scent of citrus, you can put pieces of citrus peel in the disposal without the extra pulp that comes with the fruit, although it isn’t the best thing for your disposal. For more garbage disposal do’s and dont’s, refer to our blog, “6 Tips and Tricks for Your Disposal.”
Myth #4 “Chemical drain cleaners are safe and effective.”
While you may have been taught that it requires harsh or abrasive cleaners to provide effective cleaning, that is not the case. Harsh chemicals can cause pipe corrosion, fixture damage, and health problems. While products like Drano have been around “forever,” they are not the best choice for cleaning your drains.
If you are experiencing slow or clogged drains, we have a couple of suggestions. Choose enzymatic cleaners which are safer and less harsh, use a “hair snake” to remove hair from the drain, and call Sun Plumbing for a professional drain cleaning. Some clogs are deep in the pipe and require a professional plumbing service.
Myth #5 “All plumbers are the same – just pick the cheapest one.”
Any time you are choosing a contractor to work on your home, price can never be your only factor. We understand that budget comes into play, but choosing a plumbing company that is licensed, insured, and experienced is vital. Otherwise, you are risking improper repairs and code violations.
Myth #6 “Low water pressure isn’t a serious issue.”
Many people find low water pressure to be annoying, bu they may not consider it a serious issue. However, low water pressure can signal leaks, pipe corrosion, or hidden blockages. If your water pressure has changed, you should have it checked right away. You should address it quickly so that the underlying cause doesn’t get worse. Pipe leaks, especially, can become major issues causing a lot of costly damage.
Conclusion
Believing common plumbing myths can lead to unnecessary damage and costs. It is important to address seemingly small issues like dripping faucets and low water pressure to avoid further damage. Seeking professional plumbing help is essential to avoid improper repairs. If you aren’t sure what’s wrong with your plumbing, you can always have a plumbing inspection. Use 1-ply or biodegradable toilet paper, not flushable wipes. Use safe cleaning products, not strong chemicals. Properly caring for your plumbing can help you avoid further damage and larger repair bills. If you are experiencing plumbing issues in the Melbourne, FL, area, Sun Plumbing is your go-to local plumbing company. We have been serving our community for over 50 years, “as dependable as the sun.”
