There are so many things you read or hear about plumbing that are not true. Below, we debunk some of the plumbing myths that have been circling the internet for decades.
Many people believe that if something can fit down the toilet, it’s safe to flush. This misconception has left many homeowners with overflowing toilets and stubborn clogs. You should only flush human waste and toilet paper down your toilet. Other items, such as baby diapers, wet wipes, condoms, cotton swabs, medications, paint, and feminine hygiene products, do not belong in your toilet. Simply, do not treat your toilet as a garbage can.
This myth has cost many homeowners in terms of garbage disposal repair. Garbage disposals are designed to grind up food, but they should never be used as garbage bins. Here’s a list of items you should never put down your garbage disposal:
If you want your garbage disposal to last and serve you well, be careful about what you put down it. It’s also important to grind with water running. Turn on cold water before starting the disposal, and keep it running for about 30 seconds afterward. Cold water helps solidify grease and flushes away food scraps effectively. If you notice signs of trouble, such as unusual noises and persistent clogs, call a plumbing service to identify the cause and get it repaired.
A common misconception is that a leaky faucet is a negligible issue. The truth is, a dripping faucet can waste thousands of gallons annually. Do not ignore a leaky faucet, no matter how negligible it seems, because it will add to your water bill, create an environment for mold growth, and damage the faucet. Contact a trusted plumbing repair service for faucet repair and prevent water waste.
You’ve probably come across this recommendation when looking for DIY methods for clearing clogs. While they’re readily available, they are not recommended for clearing clogged drains because they can damage your pipes. The rough edges of a wire hanger can scratch or scrape the inside of your pipes. It’s advisable to use a plumbing snake if you know how to use it correctly. If a plumbing snake won’t clear the clog, reach out to a qualified plumber for help.
Nearly every homeowner prefers a quick and hassle-free solution for cleaning their toilets. Unfortunately, many of them end up falling for myths that cause more harm than good. Bleach tablets are often marketed as an efficient and time-saving solution for cleaning toilets, but there’s something the manufacturers don’t tell you. These tablets are made of strong oxidizing agents, meaning they can break down and corrode pipes over time. Besides, bleach can kill the beneficial bacteria necessary for breaking down waste in a septic tank.
When you need professional plumbing services, Mr. Rooter Plumbing is always here to help you with all your plumbing problems. Whether you’re in need of drain cleaning, clogged toilet repair, or leak repair, our team of plumbers is ready to offer top-quality services.