11 Plumbing Myths Debunked
Here’s some straight talk from your Reading Plumbers. At Lund Plumbing and Heating, we’ve been serving Reading, MA, and the surrounding areas for over three decades. In that time, we’ve heard it all when it comes to plumbing myths and misconceptions. Today, we’re setting the record straight on some of the most common plumbing myths we encounter.
1. “Flushable” Wipes Are Safe for Your Plumbing
It’s a common misconception that “flushable” wipes are safe for your plumbing system. Despite what the packaging might claim, these wipes don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause major clogs in your pipes and sewer lines. We’ve pulled more than our fair share of these from Reading’s residential plumbing systems. Stick to flushing only the three P’s: pee, poop, and (toilet) paper. For wipes and other hygiene products, it’s best to dispose of them in the trash.
2. A Leaky Faucet Is No Big Deal
That constant drip-drip-drip isn’t just annoying – it’s wasteful and potentially damaging. Many homeowners underestimate the impact of a small leak, but it can waste thousands of gallons of water a year, driving up your water bill and potentially causing water damage over time. Fixing leaky faucets and fixtures can save homeowners about 10 percent on their water bills. Don’t ignore it; addressing leaks promptly can prevent more serious plumbing problems down the line.
3. Water Heaters Explode When They Make Noise
Heard some concerning noises from your water heater? Don’t panic. While it’s true that water heaters can make some alarming sounds, it’s usually due to sediment buildup rather than impending doom. However, strange noises are a sign that your water heater needs some TLC. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures, including water heaters.
4. Hot Water Helps Clear Grease from Pipes
This is a big myth we often hear from our clients. While hot water might help wash grease down initially, it solidifies as it cools in your pipes, leading to nasty clogs within the plumbing system. Instead, wipe grease from pans with a paper towel and throw it in the trash. This simple plumbing tip can save you from costly plumbing repairs in the future.
5. Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Safe and Effective
It’s a common misconception that chemical drain cleaners are a quick and safe fix for clogs. In reality, these harsh chemicals can do more harm than good. They’re not only potentially harmful to you but can also cause damage to your plumbing system over time. When you’ve got a stubborn clog, it’s best to rely on expert plumbing solutions rather than DIY methods that might exacerbate the issue.
6. A Brick in the Toilet Tank Saves Water
This old DIY plumbing trick might seem clever, but it can actually damage your toilet’s flushing mechanism and potentially lead to leaks. Placing a brick in the toilet tank can keep your toilet from flushing correctly and may introduce debris into your plumbing. If you’re looking to save water, consider upgrading to a low-flow toilet instead. Professional installation ensures optimal performance and can save you money in the long run.
7. Garbage Disposals Can Handle Anything
Despite the name, your garbage disposal isn’t meant for all types of garbage. Avoid putting fibrous foods, coffee grounds, or grease down there. Stick to small food scraps, and always run cold water when using it to help solidify any fats or oils that might slip through. Contrary to another common plumbing myth, lemon peels won’t effectively clean your garbage disposal – they can actually damage the blades.
8. Plumbing Systems Are Maintenance-Free
If only this were true – it would certainly make our job as a plumbing company easier! Regular plumbing maintenance can prevent many common plumbing issues and extend the life of your system. Consider scheduling annual check-ups to keep your plumbing in tip-top shape. A smoothly functioning plumbing system not only ensures comfort but can also save you from unexpected and costly plumbing repairs.
9. Ice Cubes Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades
This widespread plumbing myth is based on a fundamental misunderstanding of how garbage disposals work. Many Reading homeowners believe that tossing ice cubes down their disposal will sharpen the “blades,” but here’s the truth: garbage disposals don’t actually have blades at all.
Instead, these handy kitchen appliances use impellers – blunt metal lugs mounted on a spinning plate. These impellers work alongside a stationary grinding ring to pulverize food waste. While ice cubes won’t sharpen anything, they can serve a purpose. The hard, frozen cubes can help knock off debris from the impellers and scour the disposal’s walls, providing a bit of cleaning action.
However, there are more effective methods for maintaining your garbage disposal. Regular cleaning with cold water and proper use (avoiding fibrous foods, bones, and grease) will keep your disposal in top shape.
10. Baking Soda and Vinegar Clear Drains
This plumbing myth needs some clarification. While the baking soda and vinegar method can be effective for minor clogs and regular maintenance, it’s not a cure-all for every drain issue. The fizzy reaction can help dislodge small blockages and freshen your pipes, making it a good first step for slow drains.
However, for tougher clogs or persistent problems, this DIY solution might not be enough. In these cases, it’s best to rely on professional plumbing services. We have specialized tools and expertise to address the root cause of stubborn clogs without risking damage to your plumbing system.
Remember, while baking soda and vinegar can be a helpful home remedy, it’s just one tool in the drain-clearing toolkit. For reliable, long-term solutions to persistent drain problems, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals.
11. You Can Ignore Slow Drains
A slow drain might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it’s often a sign of a developing clog. Ignoring it can lead to more serious blockages and plumbing problems down the line. If you notice your Reading home’s drains are sluggish, it’s best to address the issue promptly to prevent more extensive damage to your plumbing system.
Trust Lund Plumbing for Expert Solutions
At Lund Plumbing and Heating, we’re committed to providing honest, reliable plumbing service to our Reading community. By debunking these common plumbing myths, we hope to help you make informed decisions about your home’s plumbing needs. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always best to consult with a plumbing expert.
Whether you’re dealing with persistent clogs, considering plumbing upgrades, or simply want to ensure your plumbing system is in top shape, Lund Plumbing and Heating is here to help. With our extensive plumbing experience and commitment to quality, we’re ready to tackle any plumbing challenge in Reading and beyond.
Don’t let plumbing myths lead you astray. Trust the experts at Lund Plumbing and Heating for all your plumbing needs. We’re just a phone call away, ready to provide expert plumbing solutions that will keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly for years to come.
