When dealing with plumbing issues, you often find a blend of fact and fiction. These misconceptions or myths can seriously misguide homeowners. Therefore, this article aims to debunk some of the most common plumbing misconceptions providing an ultimate skeptic’s guide on the subject.
Myth One: Lemons Clean Garbage Disposals
Many homeowners believe that running lemons through their garbage disposal unit will clean it. While the citric acid in lemons imparts a fresh smell, it does not clean it. To truly clean your disposal unit, use a disposal brush and mild dish soap. For more plumbing tips, do not hesitate to Explore Fergusons Plumbing tweets.
Myth Two: Running Water Helps Waste Go Down
While running water during the garbage disposal process aids waste breakdown, it does nothing for solid items like egg shells or fibrous materials. Such items can damage blades or clog your pipes leading to expensive repairs.
Myth Three: All Plumbers Are The Same
This is far from true. Just like any professional field, the skill set and expertise of plumbers vary greatly. Always verify your plumber’s license and see if they specialize in certain areas before hiring them for specific tasks.
Myth Four: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Safe
A usual misconception is that chemical drain cleaners are safe for unclogging drains. They might seem like an easy fix but they can erode the pipes over time resulting in a larger issue than just a blocked drain.
Myth Five: Plumbing Does Not Require Regular Maintenance
A plumbing system being out of sight often puts it out of mind as well, leading people to believe it does not need upkeep. Regular maintenance can help avert serious accidents such as unnoticed water leaks.
Myth Six: Little Leaks Are Not An Issue
A dripping tap might seem insignificant but it can lead to substantial water waste and raise your utility bill. Fixing minor leaks soon can save you considerable money and resources in the long run.
Myth Seven: Flushable Wipes Are Fine
Most wipes labeled as flushable do not disintegrate immediately after being flushed down the toilet. This can cause blockages and overflowing toilets, costing you more than if you just put them in a trash bin.
Myth Eight: Plumbing Requires No Skill
Diy-ing has become popular but plumbing is not a field where you can afford to overestimate your skills. A small mistake could lead to a disastrous situation. It is advisable to leave these tasks to trained professionals.
Myth Nine: Hot Water Melts Grease
The concept that hot water melts grease leads people to believe that they can wash greasy pots straight down the drain. Unfortunately, once cooled, the grease will solidify again, potentially leading to blocked pipes and drains. The best practice is always to wipe out grease before washing.
Myth Ten: Soap Makes Pipes Shiny And Clean
Soap might seem like it helps clean pipes due to its properties; however, too much soap actually leaves a residue that builds up over time, effectively making pipes dirtier, not cleaner.
Myth Eleven: Copper Piping Is Bad
Copper piping has an unfortunate reputation for being a poor choice in piping materials. While they are more expensive, their long lifespan and resistance to corrosion make them well worth the investment in many circumstances.
Myth Twelve: Plumber’s Putty Is Permanent
Some believe that once a plumber’s putty is used to seal a joint or leak, it lasts forever. While putty is a great temporary solution, it partially dries out and shrinks over time. The best long-term solution is often to replace the damaged part.
Wrap up And Takeaways
Being informed and wary of these common plumbing misconceptions can help you avoid costly repairs or replacements. While this article provides a good starting point, it is always best to consult with a licensed professional for any serious concerns. By knowing what not to do, you can ensure smoother running of your plumbing system and longer lifespans for your appliances.