Being a plumber for 18 years, you start to hear the craziest myths about plumbing. The worst part about these myths is the fact that they’re all dangerous to your plumbing system’s health. Just in case you’re one of many people that think these plumbing myths are true, we wanted to list 5 of the biggest ones out for you so you know not to continue to do them. So, without further ado, here are 5 of the biggest myths about plumbing!
Myth #1: If It Goes Down the Drain, It’s Ok
Not everything is made for the drain. Many people believe that if it easily goes down the drain, it’s allowed to be flushed. This is simply not true. Some of the worst things you can put down your sink or toilet drain is grease, coffee grounds, cake batter (or flour-based substances), and “flushable” wipes.
If you cook with cooking fats, oils, and grease – do not pour it down the drain. They will clog sewer pipes, which can then cause costly sewer overflows and basement backups. And, if you think watering the grease down first is the key – still wrong.
So, what should you do with the leftover oil and grease? Save glass jars and pour the grease and oil into them (after it has cooled). You can discard it with your recycling, avoiding plumbing issues.
If you’re an avid coffee drinker, we get it. However, what we don’t get is putting the coffee grounds down the drain. Coffee grounds were once hard beans and they maintain that firm quality, even after they are grounded down.
Overtime, the grounds clump together, creating a build-up in your drain pipes. Kind of like coffee-flavored cement. What should you do? Throw them out in the garbage.
Calling all bakers! Never pour cake batter or flour-substances down the drain! Many home bakers will try to dilute the batter with water and pour it in the sink. This is still not a good idea when it comes to your plumbing.
Why? Flour coagulates when it’s mixed with water, so it can eventually coat your pipes, creating clogs and many issues. In the garbage it goes.
If you like to use “flushable” wipes, we get this too. Trust us, sometimes you really just need a good cleaning but you don’t own a bidet. So, you went to the store, saw the word “flushable” on the package and thought you scored. We’re sorry to say that they are not safe for your plumbing system. Flushable wipes, paper towels, and products alike will clog sewers and cause backups, overflowing at wastewater treatment facilities and eventually creating an additional public health risk.
Myth #2: Leaky Faucets Are Fine
If you have a leaky faucet, it shouldn’t be ignored. Even if you believe a slow dripping faucet is ok, it can still hike up your water bill and be a sign of a bigger problem. It’s best to just get the faucet fixed before you’re spending much more money on your water bill than you expected.
Plus, it’s always a good idea to get a plumber to check it out – just in case there’s a bigger problem.
Myth #3: Lemon Cleans Garbage Disposals
Many homeowners believe that lemon can clean your garbage disposal. We’re here to tell you that the only thing a lemon will do is make it smell nice. It doesn’t actually clean anything. Not only will it not clean it out, but tossing lemon down the drain can also cause clogging.
If you need to clean out your garbage disposal, just use a simple brush and some soapy water. Your drain will thank us later.
Myth #4: Not All Plumbers Are the Same
You know how they say, “even the person that finished last in their class still gets a Dr. in front of their name?” It’s the same thing for plumbers. Not all plumbers are experienced, licensed, and know everything they need to know about the industry. It’s important that you hire a professional plumber with the proper experience and knowledge when it comes to your home’s plumbing.
The plumbers at Pilot Plumbing & Drain are all experienced, skilled, and know how to get the job done well and efficiently. Be sure to look into the company or person you plan to hire before doing so.
Myth #5: Pipes Only Freeze if the Heat is Off
Although this myth is more for the winter weather, it’s important to know this ahead of time. Many people believe that if the heat is off, the pipes will freeze, and that’s the only time they’ll freeze. That’s not true. Pipes run through exterior walls without a lot of insulation or in areas like basements and attics. Even if your furnace is still running, because these pipes are not in a well-insulated area, they can still freeze depending on the temperature outside and around the pipes.
Freezing will often lead to a burst pipe, which causes serious water damage and if not cleaned up in a timely manner, mold. If you know where your pipes are located, leave cabinet doors under sinks open, leave the basement and attic door open, and this should help the heat reach the pipes that are in danger of freezing.
Pilot Plumbing & Drain is Here For You
With over 15 years of business and thousands of five-star customers, we pride ourselves on being the best affordable plumbing company for the surrounding communities – prompt and reliable plumbing services you can trust.
We’re not only here to help you with any kind of plumbing issue or need, we’re here to supply you with knowledge about the industry and how to take care of your plumbing systems so you don’t have to deal with extensive, expensive damage.
If you’re looking for a great, local plumber in the Vancouver, Washington area – you’ve come to the right blog.
About Andy
Andy Davis, father of 6, CEO & Founder of Pilot Plumbing & Drain, has been a plumber for 18 years and decided to start Pilot Plumbing & Drain from seeing first-hand how important it is to have a reliable, honest plumber available to help the community. He believes in efficiency and takes pride in the cleanliness of his staff and their reputation for being polite, hard working, and professional.
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