Plumbing Myths

Just like any trade industry, there are lots of myths about plumbing that many people believe… but simply aren’t true.

We’ve heard our fair-share of myths throughout the years, and so decided to put together a list.

Myth #1: Plumbers are all the same

Anyone could knock on your door and offer to fix or maintain your plumbing. While they might know a thing or two about plumbing, just because they offer a plumbing service doesn’t mean they’re qualified, experienced, or even licensed.

When it comes to choosing a plumber, make sure they’ve got the skills and experience to do a good job. If you choose the wrong plumber, you could end up having to spend even more money when you find out that the job’s been done poorly.

If you want to learn more about a plumber and the quality of his work, there’s no better place to turn than the internet. Check their website for testimonials or reviews. If they’re on social media, visit their Facebook page or Google Plus profile to read the reviews and comments there.

Myth #2: Toilet-cistern cleaners will keep my toilet clean and healthy

Many people insist on using those coloured bleach tablets to keep their toilets clean and healthy. You pop the tablet in your tank, and it slowly dissolves, pushing bleach around your toilet with each flush.

Most people would rather not have to clean their toilet regularly, and some think that a bleach tablet will mean they can afford to spend less time cleaning their toilet.

Actually, these tablets often do more harm than good. As they dissolve, they create a slow build-up that can block your cistern, and even eventually ruin your toilet cistern. Furthermore, the bleach is also damaging for many modern toilets that are designed with their own antibacterial properties.

If you’re looking to clean your tank, using vinegar in the overflow tube is going to be a cheaper and more effective option. The vinegar will help remove some of the build-up and clogs that can hurt your toilet’s flow, and comes at a fraction of the cost of a bleach tablets.

Myth #3: Plumbing fixtures need very little maintenance

Ignoring a problem is one of the best ways to ensure that problem only gets worse. Failing to maintain your plumbing system, including your sinks, tubs and taps, may lead to an expensive repair if a relatively small issue is allowed to fester and grow. A little routine maintenance can help prevent serious clogs and even pipe replacements.

Myth #4: Lemons clean your garbage disposal

While running a lemon rind through your garbage disposal may make your drain smell better, it won't actually clean it. To disinfect your garbage disposal, use a cleaning solution that includes a mild soap and warm water.

Before you attempt to use it make sure your garbage disposal is disconnected from its power source. Spray the cleaning solution into the garbage disposal, give it a few minutes to work, and then use a cleaning brush to scrub the disposal itself.

Myth #5: Running water while using the garbage disposal helps the waste travel smoothly

Many homeowners believe that they can put just about anything down their garbage disposals as long as they run water down it at the same time. The truth, however, is that some things do not belong in a garbage disposal no matter how much water you run.

Hard or thick food items, such as banana peels and eggshells, can damage your disposal, which can often require expensive repairs or drain cleaning. If you're considering putting thick foods down your disposal, break them up thoroughly and mix with water before you tip them down.