Today is April Fool’s Day, but we’re taking a different approach. We believe in transparency and accuracy, especially when it comes to plumbing maintenance. Distinguishing fact from fiction is crucial for preventing costly errors and maintaining your home’s infrastructure. With numerous plumbing misconceptions out there, it’s important to discern the truth. So, our team at Bellbrook Plumbing & Drain is here to address some things and provide clarity. Join us as we debunk these myths and shed light on the most common plumbing myths!
Plumbing Myth 1 – Using Store-Bought Chemical Drain Cleaners
One of the most prevalent misconceptions is the belief that off-the-shelf chemical drain cleaners are an efficient fix for clogged drains. However, this is not true. This is because store-bought chemical drain cleaners can gradually erode pipes, resulting in leaks and additional blockages. Moreover, they present health risks and can damage the environment.
When it comes to addressing clogs, mechanical methods like plunging or using a drain snake are not only safer but also more effective in the long run. They also aid in maintaining the integrity of your plumbing system. For more stubborn clogs, it is advisable to seek assistance from a professional plumber. Additionally, drain screens serve as a proactive measure in preventing clogs.
Plumbing Myth 2 – Running Hot Water to Rinse Grease Down the Drain
One common plumbing misconception is the belief that hot water can safely wash grease down the drain. While the idea seems logical and convenient, pouring hot water down the drain to dissolve grease can worsen the issue. Hot water temporarily liquefies grease, but as it cools, the grease solidifies, leading to stubborn clogs in your pipes.
To properly dispose of grease, it is advisable to gather grease in a receptacle and dispose of it in the trash or recycle it correctly. This straightforward practice can avert expensive plumbing problems in the future, ultimately sparing you significant distress and unnecessary plumbing costs.
Plumbing Myth 3 – Flushing Flushable Wipes
Many individuals hold the belief that flushable wipes are suitable for disposal in the toilet due to their marketing claims. However, we want to bust this myth once and for all. Despite being labeled as flushable, these wipes do not disintegrate as easily as toilet paper, posing a risk of causing expensive blockages in your plumbing system. The accumulation of these so-called flushable wipes in pipes can result in backups and sewage overflows.
To avoid potential plumbing issues, it is advisable to only flush toilet paper and dispose of other wipes in the trash. It may be inconvenient, but we promise you will never regret taking care of your plumbing system.
Plumbing Myth 4 – Flushing Feminine Hygiene Products
On the same note, contrary to common belief, flushing feminine hygiene products down the toilet is not recommended. This is a misconception that frequently arises. Think about it, though. Tampons, pads, and similar items are specifically designed to absorb liquid and swell when in contact with water, which makes them likely to cause severe blockages in pipes. Consequently, flushing these products down the toilet can result in significant clogs in your plumbing system and potentially harm sewer lines.
It is crucial to dispose of feminine hygiene products in the trash to prevent expensive plumbing repairs and to keep your plumbing system flowing smoothly. Again, while it may seem inconvenient, ensuring proper care of your plumbing system through simple steps will prove to be a wise decision.
Avoid falling prey to common plumbing myths; it’s essential to dispel misinformation and protect your plumbing system’s health and functionality. Steering clear of chemical drain cleaners, grease down the drain, flushable wipes, and feminine hygiene products down the toilet can prevent damage, costly repairs, and headaches. Remember, for accurate information about your plumbing, it’s best to rely on a professional. For more insights on plumbing care, feel free to look through our other informative blogs!
Our aim is to establish ourselves as a trusted company you can rely on! Call Bellbrook Plumbing & Drain for all your plumbing questions and plumbing needs at (937) 240-3731, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!