Aug10

By Dave Bangar

Debunking 13 Plumbing Myths

We use our plumbing systems every day. But even though plumbing is EVERYWHERE, it is surrounded by an incredible number of myths and misunderstandings. 

To help you avoid costly mistakes or the need for emergency plumbing services, we’re breaking down some of the most common plumbing myths.

13 Common Plumbing Myths: Debunked

1) You Can Flush Anything Down the Toilet

While it may seem like your toilet can handle anything, they are designed with a specific purpose. Flushing things like flushable wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, or coffee grinds can lead to clogs and require toilet repair. Stick to human waste and toilet paper, only! 

2) In-Tank Cleaners Keep the Toilet Clean

In-tank toilet cleaners certainly help the toilet bowl look clean but they do more harm than good. These drop-in cleaners can damage internal components, corrode parts of the toilet, and lead to a toilet replacement or repair. 

3) Hot Water Melts Grease and Prevents Clogged Drains

Hot water does melt grease and wash it away. But, once that grease hits your pipes, it cools and solidifies, potentially causing buildup and clogs. Grease can trap food particles, lint, or hair making matters worse. 

And because these clogs are often so far down the drain, you will likely need professional drain snaking, drain cleaning, or, potentially, drain repair to resolve the problem. 

4) A Leaky Faucet is No Big Deal

While a dripping faucet may be easy to ignore, it’s in your best interest to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Even a slow leak can waste water and increase your water bill.

5) Tightly Closing a Faucet Will Prevent Leaks

Many believe that tightly turning the faucet handles will prevent the above-mentioned leaks. But all it does is damage the washers and seals, creating a leak.  Only turn your faucet until it stops running, don’t overdo it.

6) Anything Can Go in the Garbage Disposal

Unfortunately, putting just anything in the garbage disposal can lead to clogs in the disposal and its pipes. Items like coffee grounds, eggshells, and grease can be a real problem. Generally speaking, stick to residual food waste, soft foods, and liquid foods. 

7) Ice Cubes Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades

Ice cubes will not sharpen the blades of your garbage disposal. In fact, your disposal doesn’t even have blades. It has teeth-like features that grind the waste. While ice cubes won’t sharpen anything, they can be used to help clean the garbage disposal. 

8) Plungers Fix Any Clog

Plungers are a great fix for minor clogs, but they are not the solution to all clogs. It is possible that you require professional techniques like video camera inspection to identify and resolve what is going on in your pipes. Over-plunging can cause damage to your pipes and toilet seals. 

9) Water Leaks Are Always Visible

Some water leaks are not immediately evident. Slow or hidden leaks can cause significant water damage and mould growth. Monitor your water bill. If there is increased usage, call a plumber to help with water leak detection. 

10) Water Heaters Don’t Need Maintenance

Water heaters do require regular maintenance to extend their lifespan and increase efficiency. Failure to regularly maintain your water heater can lead to decreased energy efficiency and sediment buildup. Yearly maintenance is recommended. 

11) You Can Ignore a Slow Drain

Slow drains should not be ignored. They are often a sign of a growing clog or some other issue. The issue could be anywhere in your plumbing system. Contact a plumber at the first signs of trouble before the issue becomes damaging and costly.  

12) You Don’t Need a Plumber, You Can DIY

Certainly, DIY plumbing can save you money, but that doesn’t make it the best, or smartest answer. Plumbing problems may appear minor while being quite complex. They may require sewer locating or professional drain snaking. Damaging sewer lines or pipes in your home can be a real problem. It is best to trust the professionals to avoid the need for emergency plumbing services or extensive and expensive repairs. 

13) All Plumbers Are The Same

Not all plumbers will have the expertise, experience, or level of service that you need. Always research your options and read customer reviews. Look for a licensed plumber that offers services related to your specific plumbing needs. 

Trust My Plumber Kelowna For Your Plumbing Concerns

Located in Kelowna, British Columbia, My Plumber Kelowna has a team of licensed, trained, and experienced plumbers that can handle any of your home plumbing needs. 

When you contact My Plumber Kelowna in a plumbing emergency, you will always speak to a live person, no matter the time of day. Your safety is our top priority and we will dispatch an experienced technician to you at no extra cost. 

Whether you need general plumbing services, rooter service, or more, we have you covered. 

Contact us today!