Plumbing plays an essential role in every household, yet it’s often taken for granted until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, when faced with plumbing issues, many homeowners turn to outdated advice, quick fixes, and myths that can lead to more harm than good. These misconceptions are common, and they could end up costing you time, money, and stress.
At Rapid Fire Plumbing, we’ve encountered all sorts of plumbing problems, many of which stem from these persistent myths. In this article, we’re here to debunk the most common plumbing myths and set the record straight. By understanding the truth behind these misconceptions, you’ll be able to make better decisions about your home’s plumbing system, avoiding costly mistakes and keeping everything in top working order.
Let’s dive into these myths and learn the facts behind them!
Myth 1: A Leaky Faucet Is No Big Deal
The Truth:
A leaking faucet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can lead to significant waste and hefty water bills. A single dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water over the course of a year. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), even a small leak of one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons annually.
Besides the waste of water, the constant dripping can also wear down the faucet components, causing corrosion or even more severe leaks. This could eventually lead to structural damage around the faucet or sink. Additionally, if the dripping faucet is a hot water tap, you’re not only wasting water but also adding unnecessary load to your water heater, leading to higher energy costs.
What You Should Do:
Address leaky faucets immediately. Often, the fix is as simple as replacing a washer or tightening a loose connection. Ignoring a leak can lead to more expensive repairs later. If you’re unsure how to fix it, calling a plumber early on can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Myth 2: You Can Flush Anything That Fits Down the Toilet
The Truth:
One of the most common and damaging myths is that anything that fits down the toilet can be flushed. While the toilet can handle a lot, it’s only designed for human waste and toilet paper. Items like wipes (even those labeled as “flushable”), paper towels, cotton balls, feminine hygiene products, and other debris do not break down the same way as toilet paper. Flushing these items can clog your pipes and lead to sewer backups.
At Rapid Fire Plumbing, we’ve seen countless cases of homeowners dealing with expensive repairs due to non-flushable items causing major blockages. Even “flushable” wipes don’t degrade quickly enough, leading to blockages in your home’s plumbing system or, worse, the city’s sewer system.
What You Should Do:
The only things that should go down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Anything else belongs in the trash. To prevent clogs and backups, make it a rule in your home to avoid flushing anything else. If you’re already dealing with a clogged toilet, call a professional plumber to assess the damage and avoid further complications.
Myth 3: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Safe for All Clogs
The Truth:
When faced with a slow or clogged drain, many homeowners reach for chemical drain cleaners as a quick fix. However, these products often do more harm than good. Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh substances, like sodium hydroxide or sulfuric acid, which can corrode your pipes over time. The more often you use them, the greater the risk of damaging your plumbing system.
These chemicals are particularly harmful to older plumbing systems, including metal or PVC pipes. In some cases, the chemical reaction can cause the pipes to weaken and develop leaks, leading to costly repairs. Worse yet, if the cleaner doesn’t fully remove the clog, the remaining chemicals can get trapped in your pipes, creating a dangerous situation.
What You Should Do:
Avoid using chemical drain cleaners. Instead, try using a plunger or a drain snake to remove minor clogs. For stubborn clogs, it’s best to contact a professional plumber who can use safe, effective methods like hydro jetting or professional-grade augers to clear the blockage without harming your pipes.
Myth 4: It’s Normal for Water Pressure to Decrease Over Time
The Truth:
It’s a common misconception that water pressure naturally decreases over time. In reality, a gradual loss of water pressure is often a sign of a more significant issue. Common causes of reduced water pressure include mineral buildup from hard water, leaks in the plumbing system, or problems with the municipal water supply.
In Phoenix, where hard water is a known issue, mineral deposits like calcium and magnesium can accumulate inside your pipes. Over time, this buildup restricts water flow, leading to lower water pressure. Left unchecked, these deposits can block pipes entirely or cause them to burst.
What You Should Do:
If you notice your water pressure dropping, it’s essential to investigate the cause. It could be a simple fix like clearing a clogged faucet aerator, or it could indicate a more serious problem like a hidden leak or mineral buildup in your pipes. A professional plumber can diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action.
Myth 5: Ice Cubes Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades
The Truth:
There’s a persistent myth that ice cubes can “sharpen” your garbage disposal blades. However, garbage disposals don’t actually have sharp blades. They use blunt impellers that grind food into small particles, which are then flushed away through the drain. While ice cubes can help knock off food debris and clean the disposal, they don’t sharpen anything.
At Rapid Fire Plumbing, we recommend using ice cubes as part of your regular maintenance routine to help clean the disposal. Just don’t expect them to sharpen any components, as there are no sharp blades involved in the grinding process.
What You Should Do:
To keep your garbage disposal in good working condition, avoid putting bones, grease, or fibrous vegetables (like celery or corn husks) down the drain. These items can jam the disposal or cause clogs in your pipes. Running cold water while using the disposal can help flush out food particles, and using ice cubes occasionally can help clean it. If your disposal is making unusual noises or not functioning properly, it’s best to call a plumber to inspect and service it.
Myth 6: Running Water While Using the Garbage Disposal Clears Everything
The Truth:
Running water while using the garbage disposal can help move food particles through the drain, but it doesn’t guarantee that everything will be cleared. Grease, fibrous vegetables, and starchy foods like pasta or rice can still create blockages, even with the water running. Grease, in particular, solidifies as it cools, forming stubborn clogs that can build up over time.
We often receive calls from homeowners dealing with clogged kitchen drains because they assumed running water would prevent any issues. Unfortunately, running water doesn’t break down these materials or prevent them from sticking to the inside of your pipes.
What You Should Do:
To avoid clogs, be mindful of what you put down your garbage disposal. Never pour grease, oil, or fat down the drain, and avoid grinding fibrous or starchy foods. Instead, dispose of these items in the trash or compost them. Regularly flushing your disposal with cold water and using mild dish soap can help prevent clogs and keep your disposal clean.
Myth 7: Plumbing Fixtures Don’t Need Maintenance If They’re Working Fine
The Truth:
It’s easy to fall into the mindset that if a fixture is working fine, it doesn’t need maintenance. However, this approach can lead to problems later on. Plumbing fixtures, like all mechanical systems, experience wear and tear over time. Faucets, toilets, water heaters, and other fixtures need regular maintenance to keep them running efficiently and to prevent small issues from becoming major problems.
For instance, water heaters should be flushed regularly to remove sediment buildup, which can affect their performance and lifespan. Faucets and showerheads can develop mineral deposits that reduce water flow, and toilets may develop slow leaks that waste water without being noticeable at first.
What You Should Do:
Schedule regular maintenance for all your plumbing fixtures, even if they appear to be functioning normally. This includes flushing your water heater, cleaning faucet aerators, and checking for hidden leaks. Preventative maintenance can extend the life of your plumbing system and help you avoid costly emergency repairs.
Myth 8: Small Leaks Aren’t Worth Fixing
The Truth:
Many homeowners assume that small leaks, especially those that don’t seem to cause much damage, aren’t a big deal. Unfortunately, even the smallest leaks can lead to significant problems over time. A slow drip may seem harmless, but it can waste a considerable amount of water, drive up your utility bills, and cause unseen water damage to your home.
In addition to wasting water, small leaks can lead to mold growth, which poses health risks for your family. Mold thrives in damp environments, and a slow leak provides the perfect breeding ground. Moreover, leaks can weaken the structural integrity of your home if left unaddressed, leading to costly repairs.
What You Should Do:
Fix leaks as soon as you spot them, no matter how small they appear. A professional plumber can quickly and easily repair most leaks, preventing further damage to your home. Routine inspections can also help catch hidden leaks before they become bigger problems.
Myth 9: You Can Ignore Hard Water in Phoenix
The Truth:
Phoenix is known for its hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. Many homeowners think they can ignore the effects of hard water, assuming it’s just a minor inconvenience. However, hard water can have a significant impact on your plumbing system over time, leading to clogged pipes, reduced water pressure, and the premature breakdown of appliances like water heaters and dishwashers.
Hard water leaves mineral deposits, or “scale,” inside your pipes and fixtures, which can reduce water flow and cause them to wear out faster. Appliances that rely on water, like dishwashers and washing machines, may also require more frequent maintenance or replacement due to the buildup of minerals.
What You Should Do:
Investing in a water softener can help prevent the negative effects of hard water in your home. Water softeners work by removing the minerals from your water, protecting your pipes, fixtures, and appliances from damage. This not only helps your plumbing system last longer but can also save you money on energy bills and maintenance costs.
Conclusion
Plumbing myths can lead to unnecessary repairs, increased water and energy bills, and even damage to your home. At Rapid Fire Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how following bad advice can cause significant problems. By debunking these myths and sharing the truth about your plumbing system, we hope to help you make informed decisions that will protect your home and save you money.
Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or simply looking for ways to improve your plumbing’s efficiency, understanding the facts is key to keeping everything running smoothly. Remember, it’s always best to consult a professional plumber when in doubt—sometimes the smallest issue can become a major problem if left unaddressed.
FAQs
- Can chemical drain cleaners really damage my pipes?
Yes, frequent use of chemical drain cleaners can corrode your pipes over time, especially in older homes with metal or PVC piping. It’s better to use mechanical methods like a plunger or call a plumber for serious clogs. - Should I worry about hard water in my plumbing system?
Yes, hard water can cause significant damage over time. Mineral deposits can clog your pipes, reduce water pressure, and wear out appliances faster. Installing a water softener can help prevent these issues. - Are flushable wipes safe to flush down the toilet?
No, even wipes labeled as “flushable” can cause clogs in your plumbing system. They don’t break down quickly like toilet paper, so it’s best to throw them in the trash. - How often should I have my plumbing inspected?
It’s a good idea to have your plumbing system inspected at least once a year to catch any potential issues before they become major problems. Regular maintenance can save you money on repairs in the long run. - What’s the best way to clean my garbage disposal?
You can use ice cubes and cold water to clean your garbage disposal. Avoid putting grease, bones, or fibrous foods down the drain, as these can cause clogs and damage the disposal.
