Plumbing Myths Debunked: What You Should and Shouldn't Believe

When it comes to your home’s plumbing, separating fact from fiction will not only make you a trivia superstar but also save you time, energy, and potentially thousands of dollars.

We’d like to tackle some of the most common plumbing myths and explain what’s happening behind your walls and under your sink.

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or landlord who wants to avoid everyday plumbing misadventures, we’ve got you covered.

“Flushable” Wipes are Flushable

Do not believe the marketing hype. “Flushable” wipes should never be flushed. Unlike toilet paper, which is water-soluble and breaks down quickly in water, wipes maintain their strength long after they are flushed. This can cause serious plumbing issues, clogging drains and backing up sewage systems.

A Brick in the Toilet Reduces Water Waste

Did you hear how putting a brick in your toilet tank can reduce water waste? The idea behind this plumbing myth is that the brick takes up space in the tank, reducing the water used per flush. Thus, using less water with each flush, saves money over the long haul. This is false.

Modern toilets are built to use a specific amount of water for effective flushing. Placing a brick in the tank can damage your toilet and lead to incomplete flushes that force you to flush multiple times.

The Garbage Disposal Can Break Down Anything

Many people believe the plumbing myth that garbage disposals can break down any kind of food scraps. In truth, garbage disposals and pipes can be seriously or clogged by:

• Fibrous materials like celery stalks, corn husks, and onion skins
• Harder objects like bones and fruit pits
• Starchy foods like potato peels, rice, pasta
• Grease and oil

To keep your garbage disposal in tip-top shape, use soft food scraps and always run cold water while running the disposal.

Chemical Drain Cleaners Work

Caustic chemical drain cleaners are marketed as a quick fix for clogs. Unfortunately, they can corrode pipes (especially older metal and PVC pipes), causing drips, leaks, and full-blown pipe failure. Not only that, these products are toxic, can cause chemical burns, and, just as destructive, rarely work on stubborn clogs.

Hot Water Melts Drain Grease

There is a common misconception that hot water can melt grease and successfully carry it through your drain pipes.

Unfortunately, this is only half true.

While hot water can indeed melt grease, the grease will eventually cool further down inside your plumbing system, harden, and then clog. Pouring grease down the drain should always be avoided. Instead, collect grease in a container and throw it in the trash.

Sewer Lines Don’t Need Maintenance

Because sewer lines are out of sight, they are often out of homeowners’ minds. However, neglecting sewer line maintenance can lead to blockages from tree roots and debris, pipe corrosion, and even sewage backups.

We recommend scheduling regular inspections, especially for older homes, and having a professional cleaning every few years.

Outsource Your Plumbing Problems to Stephens.

Have questions about other plumbing myths or other common household plumbing issues? We can help. With over four decades of experience, our plumbing pros are here to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently. Contact us today!