Myth #1: Running Water Helps With Garbage Disposal

A common myth that many homeowners believe is that running water while using the garbage disposal helps to smoothly wash down waste, preventing clogs and ensuring the disposal runs efficiently. This belief leads to the misconception that as long as the water is running, any type of waste—be it grease, large food scraps, or even non-food items—can be safely disposed of through the system.

However, this is not entirely accurate, and relying on running water as a catch-all solution can lead to significant plumbing issues. While water does play a crucial role in the disposal process, it’s not a magic solution for all types of waste. Some materials, especially non-biodegradable items or grease, can still cause blockages or damage the disposal unit, regardless of how much water you run.

Hey Dude Plumbing’s Expert Insight: Our professionals at Hey Dude Plumbing advises that while it is important to run cold water before, during, and after using the garbage disposal to help move waste through the drain pipes, homeowners should be mindful of what they put into their disposals. Hard items, fibrous foods like celery, and greasy substances should be disposed of differently to avoid damaging the disposal blades or causing clogs further down the plumbing system.

Best Practices for Using a Garbage Disposal:

• Always run cold water before and after disposing of food waste to help solidify any potential grease or fats, making them easier to grind and flush away.
• Avoid putting hard, expandable, or fibrous materials into the disposal, as these can damage the unit or lead to clogs.
• Regularly clean your disposal with natural cleaners, such as baking soda and vinegar, to maintain its efficiency and prevent odors.

By understanding the true role of water in the functioning of garbage disposals and being mindful of what should and should not go down the drain, homeowners can avoid common pitfalls and ensure their disposal units and plumbing systems operate smoothly.

Myth #2: A Leaky Faucet is No Big Deal

Many homeowners view a leaky faucet as a minor annoyance rather than a plumbing priority. This misconception stems from the belief that a few drips here and there won’t have a significant impact. However, even a slow drip can waste gallons of water over time, leading to unnecessarily high water bills and contributing to water scarcity.

Hey Dude Plumbing’s Expert Insight: Our team emphasizes that no leak should be ignored, no matter how small it may seem. A leaky faucet is not only a waste of a precious resource but can also be a symptom of a larger issue within your plumbing system. Addressing it promptly can prevent more serious problems and costly repairs down the line.

Fixing Leaks:

• Regularly check faucets for signs of wear and tear.
• Replace worn-out washers or seals that are often the cause of drips.
• Consider consulting with a professional to ensure the leak isn’t indicative of a bigger issue.

Myth #3: Flushable Wipes are Safe for Toilets

The label “flushable” on wipes has convinced many that these products are safe for sewer systems and septic tanks. Unfortunately, this is a widespread myth. Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to disintegrate quickly in water, flushable wipes remain intact, leading to blockages and sewage backups.

Hey Dude Plumbing’s Expert Insight: We caution against the use of so-called flushable wipes. Our plumbers have cleared countless blockages caused by these wipes, which can lead to expensive and messy repairs. Just because a product can be flushed doesn’t mean it should be.

Alternatives to Flushable Wipes:

• Use toilet paper for cleaning and dispose of wipes in the trash.
• If wipes must be used, consider biodegradable options and still dispose of them in a waste bin.

Myth #4: Plungers Can Fix Any Clog

Plungers are a handy tool for minor clogs but believing they can solve all blockages is a myth. Some clogs are too deep or too solid for a plunger to handle, requiring professional intervention.

Hey Dude Plumbing’s Expert Insight: While plungers can be effective for simple clogs close to the drain’s surface, deeper issues in your plumbing system require professional tools and expertise. Misusing a plunger can also lead to damage or worsen the clog.

When to Call a Professional:

• If repeated plunging doesn’t clear the clog.
• When drains repeatedly become clogged, indicating a deeper issue.
• If there are multiple clogged drains in your home, this could signify a problem with the main sewer line.

Myth #5: Hot Water Melts Grease Down the Drain

It’s a common misconception that pouring hot water down the drain after grease will prevent clogging. While hot water can liquefy grease, allowing it to flow more freely down the drain in the immediate term, the grease will eventually cool and solidify further along in your plumbing. This solidification can lead to significant blockages over time, as more debris sticks to the greasy buildup, exacerbating the problem.

Actionable Advice:

• Instead of disposing of grease down the drain, let it cool and solidify in a container, then dispose of it in the trash.
• For minor grease residues, use a mixture of hot water and dish soap to help break down the grease and minimize buildup.

Myth #6: In-tank Toilet Cleaners Keep the Toilet Clean and Plumbing Clear

In-tank toilet cleaners might seem like a convenient solution to keep toilets clean and odor-free. However, the chemicals in these cleaners can corrode the working parts inside your toilet tank over time, including the flapper and valves, leading to leaks and inefficient flushing mechanisms.

Actionable Advice:

• Use mild cleaners and apply them directly to the toilet bowl rather than the tank. Regular cleaning with a brush can be effective and less damaging.
• Consider periodic professional maintenance to ensure all parts of your toilet are functioning correctly and efficiently.

Myth #7: As Long as Things Keep Going Down the Drain, It Isn’t Clogged

This myth lulls homeowners into a false sense of security. Just because waste seems to disappear down the drain doesn’t mean it’s not accumulating further down the line. Slow draining is a telltale sign that a blockage is forming, and if not addressed, it can lead to complete blockages that are much more difficult and expensive to clear.

Actionable Advice:

• Be proactive about using strainers in sinks to catch debris and prevent it from going down the drain.
• Perform regular baking soda and vinegar flushes to help maintain clear pipes.

Myth #8: DIY Plumbing Solutions Are Just as Effective as Professional Ones

While DIY solutions can be tempting and cost-effective for minor issues, they often serve as band-aid fixes rather than addressing the underlying problem. Without the proper tools and expertise, DIY efforts can inadvertently cause more damage or result in recurring issues.

Actionable Advice:

• For complex plumbing problems, always consult with a professional plumber who can accurately diagnose and resolve the issue.
• Educate yourself on basic plumbing maintenance and when to call in the experts.

Myth #9: Plumbing Systems Don’t Need Maintenance Unless There’s a Problem

Neglecting regular maintenance because everything seems to be working fine is a risky approach. Just like regular health check-ups can prevent serious illnesses, routine plumbing maintenance can catch minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs.

Actionable Advice:

• Schedule annual inspections with a professional plumbing service to check for leaks, corrosion, and other potential issues.
• Regularly clean your drains and inspect your fixtures to ensure everything is in good working order.

Myth #10: Hard Water Isn’t a Plumbing Concern

Hard water, characterized by high mineral content, can lead to limescale buildup inside pipes and on appliances, reducing water flow and efficiency. Over time, this can cause appliances to fail prematurely and increase energy costs due to inefficiency.

Actionable Advice:

• Consider installing a water softener system to reduce mineral content in your water, protecting your plumbing and appliances.
• Regularly descale faucets and showerheads to prevent buildup and maintain good water flow.

By understanding and addressing these common plumbing myths with informed practices and professional advice, homeowners can maintain a more efficient, problem-free plumbing system.

Conclusion

Debunking these top 10 plumbing myths with Hey Dude Plumbing’s expert insights emphasizes the importance of proper knowledge and maintenance to avoid common plumbing issues. Understanding the reality behind these myths not only saves you from unnecessary expenses and inconvenience but also prolongs the life and efficiency of your plumbing system. If you encounter any plumbing concerns or have questions about other myths you’ve heard, don’t hesitate to reach out to Hey Dude Plumbing. Our team is here to ensure your plumbing system remains in top condition, myth-free.