Are plumbing problems giving you a headache? You're not alone. Many homeowners have been bombarded with conflicting advice and outdated myths about plumbing, from outdated theories on clogged drains to tales of DIY solutions.
Thankfully, we've compiled a list of six common plumbing myths so that you can put these worries behind you for good. We'll discuss the reality behind these misconceptions and debunk the myths with plenty of expert advice from experienced plumbers thrown in for good measure. Read on to learn more about effective plumbing care.
1. It's Okay to Flush "Flushable Wipes"
Flushable wipes have become increasingly popular in recent years as households have sought out quick and easy ways to keep their bathrooms clean. However, flushable wipes should not go down the drain despite their convenience.
In reality, flushable wipes don't break down quickly enough and can clog up pipes and sewer systems. When flushed down the toilet, these wipes can cause major blockages that require expensive repairs or replacements.
2. Minor Leaks Are Nothing to Worry About
The truth is even minor leaks can become serious if not addressed. Over time, leaks can damage the hardware and functionality of your home fixtures, cause water damage that may lead to mold and other related hazards, and waste valuable resources like water.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average household's leaks can waste as much as
90 gallons of water or more daily. Furthermore, ignorance of a seemingly minor leak often leaves homeowners with much larger repair bills in the future, as small issues can snowball into bigger repairs. Therefore, proactively address all known leaks as soon as possible for a safe, sound home environment.
3. Putting a Brick in the Toilet Tank Will Save Money
Sadly, this is false, and any attempts to reduce water usage by doing so will be unsuccessful. In fact, using such measures to decrease the amount of water used for flushing can lead to costly damage over time due to inefficient or incomplete flushes.
4. Plumbing Is Easy to Fix Yourself
Contrary to popular belief, plumbing and fixing it yourself is not an easy task. Plumbing repairs require specific skills and knowledge related to complex systems such as water lines, drains, and pipes. Without the right training and understanding of the intricate components of a plumbing system, attempting to repair plumbing problems on one's own could be intimidating, time consuming, and even dangerous.
DIY plumbing may seem like an attractive solution to save money, but it can cause more harm than good if done incorrectly. Plumbing is best left to professionals with the right tools, techniques, and experience to provide effective solutions with long-term results.
5. Store-Bought Drain Cleaners Are Safe and Effective
Commercial drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals like hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid that can corrode pipes and potentially cause long-term harm if not used carefully.
Additionally, store-bought cleaners do not always address the root problem that caused the clogging in the first place, such as tree roots or blockages caused by debris, meaning clogs can return quickly.
6. Hot Water Can Wash Grease Safely Down the Drain
It's not true that hot water can wash grease down the drain safely. Pouring hot water over grease can make the problem worse. Using hot water causes the fat or oil to melt, and then it cools down and re-solidifies further into the drain.
The resultant layer of solidified grease will trap subsequent debris, causing future clogs in the drainpipes. Avoid washing fats, oils, or greases down the drains using any temperature of its liquid form. Instead, opt for capture/disposal methods, including scraping used cooking fat into a disposable container and putting it in the trash.
It's integral to stay up to date on the latest information and speak to an experienced professional with any questions you may have about your plumbing system. Here at Express Electric, we provide reliable service with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Feel free to
contact us anytime with any inquiries you may have.
