On this April Fool’s Day, we have chosen a different approach. After all, we are all about transparency; no tricks here! In the realm of plumbing maintenance, distinguishing fact from fiction is crucial for safeguarding your home’s infrastructure. With numerous plumbing myths in circulation, it can be challenging to discern what is the truth. Join Centerville Plumbing & Drain experts as we “bust” some common plumbing misconceptions, shedding light on the reality behind them.
Plumbing Myth One – “You Should Use Chemical Drain Cleaners”
The first common plumbing misconception we want to point out revolves around store-bought chemical drain cleaners. Despite popular belief, they do not offer a swift and efficient remedy for obstructed drains. This is because store-bought chemical drain cleaners cause more harm than good by gradually eroding pipes, which results in leaks and exacerbating blockages. Moreover, these products not only can endanger you and your family’s health but also pose environmental risks.
Choosing mechanical methods such as plunging or utilizing a drain snake is not only safer but also proves more effective in the long term. It also helps in safeguarding the integrity of your plumbing system. For more extensive or persistent clogs, seeking advice from a professional plumber is recommended. Additionally, employing drain screens serves as a proactive measure in preventing blockages.
Plumbing Myth Two – “You Should Use Hot Water to Wash Grease Down the Drain”
Another prevalent plumbing misconception is the belief that hot water can effectively wash grease down the drain. Although the notion of using hot water to dissolve grease may seem logical and convenient, it can worsen the issue. Hot water temporarily liquefies grease, but upon cooling, the grease solidifies, leading to persistent clogs in your pipes.
In order to counter this plumbing myth, it is advisable to gather grease in a container and dispose of it in the appropriate manner, either in the trash or by recycling it. Adopting this straightforward practice can help avert expensive plumbing problems in the future, thereby reducing the risk of significant inconvenience and unnecessary plumbing costs.
Plumbing Myth Three – “You Should Use Flushable Wipes”
Many individuals hold the belief that flushable wipes can be safely disposed of in the toilet due to their marketing claims. However, it is essential to dispel this misconception once and for all. Despite their labeling, flushable wipes do not disintegrate as effectively as toilet paper. Instead, they pose a risk of causing expensive blockages in your plumbing system. These flushable wipes have the potential to accumulate in pipes, resulting in backups and sewage overflows.
To prevent plumbing issues, it is advisable to flush only toilet paper and discard other wipes in the trash. This practice helps avoid potential plumbing mishaps and maintains system functionality.
Plumbing Myth Four – “You Should Flush Feminine Hygiene Products Down the Toilet”
On the same note, it is not advisable to flush feminine hygiene products down the toilet either. This myth is encountered frequently. When you really stop to think about it, it becomes evident that tampons, pads, and similar items are engineered to absorb liquid and expand when in contact with water, making them likely to cause severe blockages in pipes. Consequently, flushing any of these products down the toilet can result in significant clogs in your plumbing system and potential damage to sewer lines.
Practice preventative care by disposing of feminine hygiene products in the trash to avoid expensive plumbing repairs and environmental harm. While it may appear inconvenient, rest assured that prioritizing your plumbing system through basic plumbing care practices is a decision you won’t regret!
Dispelling common plumbing myths is essential for preserving the health and functionality of your plumbing system. To avoid unnecessary damage and costly repairs, it’s advisable to refrain from using chemical drain cleaners, disposing of grease in sinks, flushing non-flushable wipes, or introducing feminine hygiene products into the toilet. Remember, consulting a professional for accurate information on plumbing matters is always the best approach. For further insights on maintaining your plumbing system, don’t hesitate to explore our informative blogs.
We aim to establish ourselves as a company that you can rely on with confidence. Call Centerville Plumbing & Drain for all your plumbing questions and plumbing needs at (937) 240-0169, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
