Let’s Dispel 10 Common Plumbing Myths

We’ve all fallen prey to at least one plumbing myth at some point. In this article, Rooter Man Plumbing debunks 10 common plumbing myths to help you keep your plumbing in great shape.

Flushable Wipes Are Safe To Flush

While marketed as flushable, these wipes can cause clogs in your pipes and even damage your septic system. Flushable wipes do not disintegrate as quickly as toilet paper and can get stuck in pipes.

Put a Brick in the Toilet Tank to Save Water

The idea that placing a brick on the toilet tank can cut down on water usage is a common misconception. While it may slightly reduce the amount of water used per flush, it can also damage the toilet's internal mechanisms and lead to more serious problems in the long run.

Putting Ice Cubes in the Garbage Disposal Sharpens the Blades

First of all, garbage disposals don’t use blades to break down food waste into small pieces. Instead, it uses impellers to pulverize into tiny particles that are then flushed away with water. Ice cubes can help clean the impellers, but don’t count on them to sharpen anything. If your goal is to save water used for flushing, consider installing a high-efficiency toilet. Call a professional plumber to help you install a high-efficiency toilet.

In-Tank Toilet Cleaning Tablets Are Safe and Effective

While they’ve been marketed as a time-saving solution, in-tank toilet cleaning tablets contain bleach, which is known to corrode toilet components. 

It’s Okay to Ignore a Small Leak

False. Even a dripping tap can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water in a year. It’s advisable to schedule plumbing repair service when you notice a plumbing leak in your home.

Hot Water Can Wash Grease Safely Down the Drain

This is false because liquid grease will eventually cool down and stick to pipe walls. It’s advisable to collect grease in a heat-proof container and toss it in the trash. Stick to natural and eco-friendly cleaners such as vinegar, baking soda, and borax. 

Drain Cleaning Chemicals Are Safe To Use

Is your drain line clogged? Instead of reaching for a liquid drain cleaner, try plunging the drain or using a drain snake to dislodge the clog. Drain cleaning chemicals can corrode pipes and are not effective for clog removal. If DIY techniques do not work, call a nearby plumbing service for professional drain cleaning.