Plumbing is an integral part of any home, but it can also be one of the most confusing. With all the information circulating about plumbing, it’s hard to know what’s true and what’s not. Many people have fallen victim to believing myths to be true without actually verifying them. In this blog post, we’ll debunk some of the most common plumbing myths.
Lemon Peels Make the Sink Smell Better
It’s a common misconception that lemon peels make your sink smell better. In reality, they can cause various plumbing problems. Lemon peels can cause your garbage disposal to smell worse. This is because as the lemon peel decomposes, it releases a foul odor. While the citrusy smell of lemon peels might be pleasantly masking whatever’s causing the odor in your sink temporarily, the peels can cause a backup. They can interact with other food waste and grease when they go down the drain to create a clog. Additionally, the acidic nature of a lemon peel can corrode the metal blades in the garbage disposal system.
Flushable Wipes Can Be Flushed
Flushable wipes are not as flushable as many people think. They are one of the most common items that cause clogs in home plumbing systems. While flushable wipes break down in water, they do not always do so completely and immediately. They can easily pile up in the plumbing system and clog it before they dissolve. As a result, it is best to avoid flushing them down the toilet. Instead, dispose of them in the trash.
Using a Brick in the Toilet Saves Water
One common plumbing myth is that placing a brick in the tank of your toilet will save water and, as a result, money on your water bill. The theory behind this is that the brick will take up space in the tank, which will displace the amount of water used with each flush. However, this is not an effective way to save water. It can lead to problems. Bricks are porous and can absorb water, which can cause an increased need for more water in the tank. The brick can disintegrate over time and clog the pipes, leading to expensive repairs. In addition, the brick can interfere with the float ball that regulates how much water is in the tank, leading to frequent overflows.
Drain Cleaners Are Safe and Effective
One of the most popular myths is that drain cleaners are safe and effective. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. The drain cleaners usually consist of harsh ingredients that can corrode and damage your pipes if you use them frequently. The chemicals can also cause serious burns on the human skin and injuries to the eyes if you mishandle them during the time of application. In addition, drain cleaners often do not work as well as people think. They aren’t a permanent solution. They may break up some of the clogs and remove them. However, over time, the clogs might gradually return.
Minor Faucet Leaks Are Harmless
Small leaks from faucets may seem harmless, but they can lead to some serious problems. A small drip from a bathroom or kitchen plumbing system may not seem like much, but it can waste a significant amount of water over time. A dripping faucet can also be annoying, making it difficult to concentrate or sleep. Leaks can cause damage to the fixture, as well as to the surrounding area. Water that drips onto the counter or floor can cause mold to grow, and it can also stain or damage surfaces. In some cases, a dripping faucet can even cause structural damage if the water seeps into walls or floors. As a result, it’s important to take care of leaks as soon as possible.
Hot Water Melts Grease and Prevents Clogs
Many homeowners believe that hot water can help to melt grease and prevent clogs. Unfortunately, this is not the case. While hot water may temporarily dissolve some grease, it will solidify, harden, and cling to the sides of the pipes and create a barrier that traps food and other debris. In addition, hot water can damage pipes by melting some of them due to heat and lead to leaks.
There are many myths surrounding plumbing and how it works. While some of these may seem harmless, they can lead to serious damage if you’re not careful. Contact Twin Peaks Plumbing, Heating & Gas in Nanaimo if you’re having any trouble with your plumbing or need residential and commercial gas services. We will be happy to help!
