Plumbing doesn’t get much thought—until something goes wrong. And when it does, it’s easy to fall back on what you’ve “heard” over the years. The problem is that a lot of common plumbing advice isn’t actually true. Some of it can even make the situation worse—and more expensive.
So, if you’re relying on household wisdom or random internet tips to keep your pipes happy, it might be time to rethink a few things. Let’s clear up the confusion. Here are eight plumbing myths that could be costing you.
1. Myth: Lemons Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Throwing a few lemon wedges down the disposal seems like a good idea. It smells fresh, right? But it’s not actually cleaning anything.
The reality: Lemons can help mask odors temporarily, but they won’t scrub off grease, grime, or buildup inside the unit. And if you’re doing it often, the citric acid can start to corrode metal parts over time.
Better option: Use cold water and a small amount of dish soap. Or try a few ice cubes to knock loose debris.
2. Myth: Flushable Wipes Are Fine to Flush
Despite the name, “flushable” wipes aren’t great for your plumbing. They might go down the toilet, but they don’t break down easily. As the experts at https://thedrainfighter.com/ will tell you, a surprising number of blockages happen because people flush things they shouldn’t.
The reality: These wipes can cause clogs, especially in older pipes. Over time, they might lead to backups or even bigger issues in the sewer line.
Stick to: Good old-fashioned toilet paper. It breaks down the way it’s supposed to.
3. Myth: A Leaky Faucet Isn’t a Big Deal
A tiny drip might not seem urgent, especially if it’s just a slow tap-tap-tap in the sink. But over time, it adds up.
The reality: A single faucet dripping once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water a year. That’s money down the drain—literally.
And beyond your water bill? A steady leak can wear out fixtures faster and lead to other problems if it’s not fixed.
4. Myth: You Can Pour Grease Down the Drain as Long as You Use Hot Water
This one’s been passed around forever: pour the grease down while it’s hot and run the tap. Done, right? Not exactly.
The reality: Grease cools quickly once it’s in the pipes. It solidifies, sticks to the walls, and attracts other debris. Over time, it can create massive blockages—especially if you keep doing it.
What to do instead: Pour grease into a container, let it solidify, and toss it in the trash.
5. Myth: Plumbing Fixtures Don’t Need Maintenance Unless There’s a Problem
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it? That mindset doesn’t work well with plumbing.
The reality: Waiting until something goes wrong can lead to more damage—and bigger bills. Small issues like worn-out seals, sediment buildup, or minor leaks can grow if they’re ignored.
A little upkeep goes a long way: Checking for leaks, inspecting under sinks, or flushing your water heater annually can help you avoid surprises.
6. Myth: All Plumbers Are the Same
Think calling any plumber will get the job done the same way? Not quite.
The reality: Plumbing is a skilled trade. Some plumbers specialise in certain areas—residential, commercial, renovation, or repairs. Experience, licensing, and attention to detail all vary.
While this myth doesn’t directly affect your pipes, it can impact the quality of the work, how long a fix lasts, and whether it’s done up to code.
7. Myth: It’s Okay to Use Chemical Drain Cleaners Regularly
You’ve probably seen those bright bottles that promise to clear clogs in minutes. Seems easy. Just pour and wait. But they’re not as harmless as they seem.
The reality: Most chemical cleaners are harsh. They can eat away at pipes—especially if used often—and cause long-term damage. They’re also tough on septic systems and the environment.
Safer alternatives: A plunger, drain snake, or even a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help with minor clogs without the risk.
8. Myth: A Rumbling Water Heater Means It’s About to Explode
Hearing strange noises from the water heater? Some people panic and think it’s dangerous. The good news: it’s usually not about to blow.
The reality: That rumbling or popping sound is often caused by sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. When water gets trapped under the sediment and heats up, it makes noise.
What to do: Flushing the tank annually can prevent this. If it’s already noisy, a plumber can help you clean it out and check for wear.
Don’t Let Bad Advice Drain Your Wallet
Plumbing isn’t complicated—but misinformation around it can make life harder (and more expensive). Small habits, like pouring grease down the sink or using chemical drain cleaners too often, might seem harmless in the moment but lead to serious issues over time. A little knowledge can save you a lot of stress—and money.
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