Don’t Get Clogged Up by Bad Advice: Four Plumbing Myths Debunked!

We’ve all picked up home maintenance tips over the years. But not all advice is created equal, especially when it comes to plumbing. In fact, some plumbing advice can do more harm than good! It’s crucial to separate plumbing fact from fiction. After all, knowing the truth can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.

Let’s address some of the most common plumbing myths and debunk them one by one.

Myth #1:

Lemons and ice cubes are magic cleaning tools for garbage disposals.

Truth:

While lemons might mask odors for a bit, they won’t clean the blades or dislodge food particles. And ice cubes might dull the blades and jam the disposal. To properly clean your garbage disposal, periodically run hot water with a small amount of dish soap or use specialized disposal cleaning products.

Myth #2:

Flushable wipes just flush away.

Truth:

The term “flushable” is incredibly misleading. Despite the manufacturers’ claim, these wipes don’t break down like toilet paper, and can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, causing clogs and backups. Stick to toilet paper, but if you must use wipes, throw them in the trash!

Myth #3:

Pouring grease down the drain is fine if you run hot water with it.

Truth:

This common misconception can lead to serious plumbing issues. Hot water might melt grease initially, but the grease will eventually solidify and create a nasty clog in your pipes. The best way to dispose of grease is to scrape it into a container and throw it away.

Myth #4:

Chemical drain cleaners are a safe and effective way to unclog toilets.

Truth:

Not quite. Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh and corrosive, damaging certain pipes and harming the environment. It’s always best to consult a professional plumber about what’s causing the clog.

Separating plumbing facts from fiction is crucial for maintaining a smoothly functioning system and avoiding costly repairs. When in doubt, consult Raider Rooter for guidance tailored to your specific situation.

We’ve been helping South Florida maintain and manage its plumbing and sewer since 1978. So, let us put our expertise to work for you. And if you’re after tips and tricks for frequent plumbing problems, consult our blog for thorough and helpful information.