5 Myths About Plumbing Systems, Officially Busted

Plumbing problems are common all across the country. In addition to normal wear and tear, some homeowners accidentally cause further issues by falling prey to common misconceptions about plumbing. If you want to protect your plumbing system, here are five myths you need to know about.

1. Flushable Wipes

Plumbing contractors will tell you that so-called flushable wipes aren’t truly flushable. These wipes don’t actually break down in your pipes. Instead, they get tangled together and eventually cause a clog. If you use flushable wipes for several years, you can even create a massive blockage in your main sewer line.

2. Drain Cleaners

Chemical-based drain cleaners like Drano are a popular option, but they can actually be very harmful to your pipes. Instead of these chemical drain cleaners, you should use a plunger or an enzyme-based drain cleaner to clear your drains. Of course, preventative measures are the best way to avoid clogs.

3. In-Tank Cleaners

You probably know someone who uses in-tank toilet cleaners that turn their water blue, but plumbing contractors don’t recommend them. These in-tank cleaners don’t damage your toilet tank or bowl, but they can damage seals and other parts of your toilet which can lead to leaks. Simply cleaning your toilet once every few days or once a week is a better alternative.

4. Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposals can grind up food, but you shouldn’t put just anything down there. Try to scrape as much food into the garbage as possible and use your garbage disposal to get rid of any leftover scraps. Avoid putting eggshells, coffee grounds, and grease down your drain to avoid potential issues.

5. Hot Water and Grease

You might think running hot water down your pipes will thin grease out and prevent clogs, but that grease will become solid again as soon as it cools down. This typically happens inside your drain pipes, which is why it’s one of the common causes of drain clogs.

Plumbing repairs can be expensive, so taking care of your plumbing system helps you save time and money. Luckily, you have plenty of options for plumbing experts to consult. According to the Bureau of Labor, the plumbing industry is expected to grow by as much as 25% over the next decade. As an added benefit, you won’t have to worry about leaks and other plumbing issues damaging your home. If you’ve got a plumbing problem or want to make an upgrade to your home, contact the plumbing contractors at Hornback Plumbing today.