Common Plumbing Myths You Should Stop Believing 🚰🛠️
Plumbing is one of those things we don’t always think about until something goes wrong. Whether it's a leaky faucet or a clogged drain, we often rely on common knowledge or tips passed down over the years. But, just like with many things, some plumbing “facts” are actually myths! Today, we’re here to set the record straight and help you avoid some of the most common plumbing misconceptions.
Myth 1: "Lemon and Vinegar Will Clear Your Drain" 🍋❌
We’ve all heard the suggestion to pour some lemon juice and vinegar down the drain to clear clogs and freshen things up. While this might work on mild blockages (like food buildup in your garbage disposal), it’s not a permanent fix for real clogs, especially when it comes to grease or soap buildup.
What to do instead: For more stubborn clogs, it’s best to use a plunger or call a professional plumber who can use snake tools or hydro-jetting to clear the blockage without causing any damage to your pipes.
Myth 2: "Flushable Wipes Are Safe to Flush" 🚽❌
Despite the word “flushable” on the label, flushable wipes can cause major plumbing problems. They don’t break down as easily as toilet paper and can easily get stuck in your pipes, leading to clogs and backups.
What to do instead: Always dispose of wipes, paper towels, and sanitary products in the trash—not the toilet.
Myth 3: "You Can Fix a Leaky Pipe with Duct Tape" 🛠️❌
It’s tempting to slap some duct tape on a leaky pipe as a quick fix, especially when you’re in a pinch. However, duct tape is only a temporary solution and may not hold up under the pressure of water flow. Over time, the leak will likely return, and the pipe might get worse.
What to do instead: If you have a leaking pipe, it’s best to call in a professional plumber. Pipe repair or replacement may be necessary to properly fix the issue.
Myth 4: "You Should Always Use Chemical Drain Cleaners" 🧴❌
Chemical drain cleaners might seem like a convenient solution for clogged drains, but they can damage your pipes, especially older ones. Over time, these harsh chemicals can eat away at pipe walls, leading to leaks and more expensive repairs down the road. Plus, they’re toxic and dangerous to handle.
What to do instead: For minor clogs, try using a plunger, baking soda and vinegar, or a plumbing snake. If the problem persists, call a plumber to avoid damage to your plumbing.
Myth 5: "If It’s Not Leaking, It’s Fine!" 🚿❌
Just because you don’t see water pooling under your sink or dripping from the faucet doesn’t mean your plumbing is in perfect condition. Slow leaks or hidden leaks can still cause damage over time, leading to mold growth, water damage, or even costly structural repairs. Regular plumbing inspections can catch these hidden problems before they become big issues.
What to do instead: Schedule regular plumbing maintenance or inspections with a professional plumber to make sure everything is running smoothly.
Myth 6: "Water Pressure Can Always Be Fixed by Adjusting the Valve" 💦❌
Low water pressure can be super frustrating, but it’s not always something you can fix with a quick adjustment to the valve. Often, it’s a sign of a bigger problem, like mineral buildup in pipes, a malfunctioning water pressure regulator, or even a hidden leak.
What to do instead: If your water pressure seems consistently low, call a plumber to check for mineral buildup or other underlying issues.
Myth 7: "All Plumbing Problems Are Expensive to Fix" 💸❌
Not all plumbing problems require a huge financial investment. Some issues, like a simple clogged drain or a leaky faucet, can be solved quickly and affordably. It’s also important to catch small issues early before they turn into major plumbing disasters.
What to do instead: Regular maintenance and early intervention can help you avoid costly repairs down the line. And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask your plumber for an honest assessment of the problem.
Myth 8: "Running the Faucet While Showering Saves Water" 🚿❌
It’s a common belief that running the faucet while taking a shower helps you conserve water. In reality, leaving the faucet running actually wastes more water, because your shower and faucet will both run at full force, and you’re just using extra water unnecessarily.
What to do instead: Turn off the faucet while you’re lathering up, and only run it when you need it. You’ll save water and reduce your utility bills.
The Takeaway: Trust the Experts for the Best Plumbing Advice!
While it’s fun to think we know it all when it comes to plumbing, it’s important to remember that some myths can lead to expensive mistakes or damage to your home. For safe, effective, and long-lasting solutions, always rely on professional plumbers who can provide accurate advice and expert services.
At Cold is on the Right, we’re here to help you tackle all your plumbing needs—whether you need maintenance, repairs, or just a friendly expert to answer your questions.
Call us today at 512-758-6237 to schedule an inspection or get advice from our team of experts. Let's debunk those myths and keep your plumbing in top shape!