7 Common Plumbing Myths Debunked

Published on February 19, 2025

Plumbing issues can be stressful, and when it comes to maintaining your home’s plumbing system, there’s no shortage of advice floating around. Unfortunately, not all of it is accurate. Many homeowners fall victim to common plumbing myths that can lead to bigger problems down the road. In this blog post, we will debunk seven of the most widespread plumbing myths, providing you with the facts you need to properly care for your plumbing system.

Myth 1: Hot Water Helps to Clear Grease Buildup

One common myth is that pouring hot water down the drain will help clear grease buildup in your pipes. While it might seem like a quick fix, hot water can actually cause grease to solidify inside the pipes, leading to more stubborn clogs. Grease and oils are known to congeal as they cool, and hot water may push these substances further down the line, making them more difficult to remove.

The best way to handle grease buildup is to avoid pouring it down the drain in the first place. Once it’s in your pipes, it’s often best to call a professional plumber to perform a thorough cleaning. Pouring grease down the drain can contribute to serious blockages over time, and while hot water might seem like a temporary solution, it does nothing to eliminate the underlying issue.

If you’ve been trying to clean grease with hot water, it’s time to stop and adopt a different method. Regular maintenance and professional cleaning can help keep your pipes in good condition and prevent future clogs. A plumber can also offer advice on how to manage grease and prevent plumbing issues from arising.

Myth 2: All Drain Cleaners Are Safe for Pipes

Many homeowners believe that commercial drain cleaners are a safe and effective way to clear blocked pipes. While they may work in the short term, these chemical cleaners can be damaging to your pipes over time. The harsh chemicals in drain cleaners can corrode the interior of your pipes, causing leaks and weakening the overall structure of the plumbing system. Additionally, drain cleaners don’t address the root cause of the clog, often providing only a temporary solution.

Instead of using chemical drain cleaners, consider having your drains cleaned professionally using techniques like hydrojetting. Hydrojetting uses high-pressure water to clear blockages and clean the interior of the pipes without causing damage. This is a much safer, longer-lasting method that doesn’t involve potentially harmful chemicals. Regular drain cleaning can help prevent the buildup of debris and keep your plumbing system working smoothly.

If you’re dealing with frequent clogs, it’s important to consult with a licensed plumber rather than relying on store-bought cleaners. A professional can identify the cause of the blockage and recommend an appropriate solution that will keep your pipes in good shape for years to come.

Myth 3: You Can Flush Anything Down the Toilet

One of the most common misconceptions is that toilets can handle anything that’s thrown into them. While toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper, flushing anything else can cause serious problems. Items like wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products don’t break down the same way toilet paper does, often leading to blockages in the plumbing system.

Flushing non-degradable items can clog the pipes or cause a backup in the sewer line, resulting in costly repairs. It’s important to dispose of these items properly by throwing them in the trash, not the toilet. Even if something claims to be “flushable,” it’s not always safe for your plumbing system. Avoiding this myth can help keep your plumbing system functioning properly and prevent plumbing emergencies.

If you’re ever unsure whether something is safe to flush, always err on the side of caution. Contact a professional plumber if you suspect your pipes are clogged due to flushing inappropriate items. Preventing these kinds of blockages is much easier than dealing with the aftermath of a toilet backup.

Myth 4: A Leaky Faucet is No Big Deal

A leaky faucet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can lead to bigger problems if ignored. Many people believe that as long as water is still flowing, a leaky faucet won’t cause much harm. However, a constantly dripping faucet wastes water and can lead to higher utility bills. Over time, the wear and tear on the faucet can also cause damage that requires more expensive repairs.

Fixing a leaky faucet is usually a simple job that can be handled by a plumber in a short amount of time. Addressing the issue early on can help save water and reduce the overall cost of repairs. Additionally, fixing leaky faucets helps protect your home’s plumbing system from unnecessary strain and prevents the risk of water damage to surrounding areas.

If you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, don’t wait to get it fixed. The longer you let it go, the more it can impact your water usage and your plumbing system. A professional plumber can help you resolve the issue and restore your plumbing system’s efficiency.

Myth 5: All Plumbing Problems Are Immediate Emergencies

Not all plumbing problems require immediate attention, despite the urgency they may seem to convey. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that minor issues, such as a slow drain or a minor leak, are emergencies that need to be addressed right away. While it’s important to take plumbing issues seriously, not every problem requires an urgent fix.

Some plumbing issues can wait for a scheduled appointment with a professional plumber, while others, like burst pipes or significant flooding, are genuine emergencies. It’s essential to assess the severity of the situation and contact a plumber accordingly. Waiting too long to address a small issue may lead to more significant problems down the line, so it’s always best to have a professional plumber inspect the situation when in doubt.

If you’re unsure whether a plumbing issue requires emergency attention, it’s best to consult a licensed plumber. They can help you assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action. Having a reliable plumber on hand for both emergencies and non-emergencies can help you keep your plumbing system in good condition.

Myth 6: You Can’t Prevent Plumbing Issues

Many homeowners believe that plumbing issues are inevitable and can’t be prevented. While it’s true that some problems are unavoidable, many plumbing issues can be avoided with regular maintenance and proper care. Routine inspections, drain cleaning, and addressing small leaks before they become larger problems can go a long way in preventing major plumbing issues.

Regular maintenance allows you to identify and address potential problems before they escalate. A professional plumber can check for issues such as pipe corrosion, tree root intrusion, or water pressure problems that may not be visible to the untrained eye. Taking proactive steps can help you avoid the need for costly repairs and reduce the risk of plumbing emergencies.

By staying on top of maintenance and making necessary repairs as soon as they arise, you can extend the life of your plumbing system and keep it functioning efficiently. Don’t wait until a problem becomes a major issue—regular care is key to preventing plumbing issues.

Myth 7: DIY Plumbing Repairs Are Always Safe

While DIY projects can be rewarding, plumbing repairs are often best left to the professionals. Many homeowners believe they can save money by attempting to fix plumbing issues themselves. However, attempting DIY plumbing repairs can lead to more harm than good. Without the proper tools, knowledge, and experience, DIY repairs can result in leaks, further damage, or even injury.

Professional plumbers are trained to handle a wide range of plumbing issues safely and effectively. They have the necessary tools and experience to address problems without causing additional damage to your home’s plumbing system. While small issues like a clogged drain might seem simple to fix, calling a professional plumber ensures that the problem is handled correctly, saving you time and money in the long run.

If you’re ever unsure about a plumbing issue, don’t risk making it worse with a DIY fix. Call a professional plumber who can assess the situation and provide the right solution. Investing in expert plumbing services can save you from costly repairs down the road.

Now that we’ve debunked some of the most common plumbing myths, it’s clear that proper maintenance and professional assistance are key to keeping your plumbing system in top shape. If you’re dealing with a plumbing issue or want to prevent future problems, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team is ready to provide reliable solutions that will keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly.