When it comes to plumbing, there’s no shortage of myths and misconceptions that can lead to costly mistakes and headaches. As a homeowner, understanding the truth behind these common plumbing myths is essential to avoid unnecessary repairs and protect your home’s plumbing system. In this blog, we’ll debunk the top 5 plumbing myths, including the infamous flushable wipes myth, and provide you with the facts every homeowner should know.

1. Flushable Wipes Are Safe to Flush

Myth: “Flushable wipes are just like toilet paper and can be flushed without any issues.”

Truth: Flushable wipes can cause serious plumbing problems.

While flushable wipes may be marketed as safe for plumbing, the reality is they don’t break down like toilet paper. These wipes are often made from synthetic materials that do not dissolve in water, leading to clogs in pipes and sewage systems. Over time, they can accumulate in your plumbing, causing blockages that result in slow drainage or even costly backups.

Tip: Dispose of wipes in the trash instead of flushing them, even if they are labeled as “flushable.”

2. Drano Can Fix Any Clog

Myth: “A bottle of Drano will clear any clog in your pipes.”

Truth: Chemical drain cleaners can cause more harm than good.

While Drano and similar products might temporarily clear a clog, they can be extremely harsh on your pipes and plumbing system. These chemicals can erode pipes over time, leading to leaks and more serious damage. Additionally, they may not effectively clear deep or stubborn clogs, and can even push debris further down the drain.

Tip: For serious clogs, contact a professional plumber who can use safe, effective methods to clear the blockage without causing damage to your pipes.

3. A Leaky Faucet Is No Big Deal

Myth: “A leaky faucet is just a minor annoyance; it doesn’t really waste that much water.”

Truth: A leaky faucet can waste a significant amount of water and money.

Even though a single drip might seem insignificant, a leaky faucet can waste gallons of water over time. A steady drip can add up to hundreds of gallons of wasted water annually, increasing your water bill and putting unnecessary strain on your plumbing system.

Tip: Don’t ignore a leaky faucet—repair it promptly to save water and money.

4. Older Plumbing Systems Are Fine, As Long as They’re Not Leaking

Myth: “If the pipes aren’t leaking, everything’s fine with the plumbing system.”

Truth: Aging plumbing systems can cause hidden issues even without visible leaks.

Older plumbing systems, especially those made from materials like galvanized steel or polybutylene, are more prone to corrosion, clogs, and weakening over time. Even if there are no visible leaks, your plumbing system could be deteriorating from the inside. Old pipes can impact water quality, cause low water pressure, and eventually lead to expensive repairs.

Tip: If your home has an older plumbing system, consider scheduling a professional inspection to check for potential issues before they become major problems.

5. Flushing “Small” Items Is Fine

Myth: “It’s okay to flush small items like paper towels, cotton balls, or dental floss.”

Truth: Flushing non-toilet paper items can lead to clogs and costly repairs.

Only toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Paper towels, cotton balls, dental floss, and other household items do not break down like toilet paper and can cause clogs in the pipes or septic system. Over time, these items can accumulate and block your drains, leading to expensive plumbing repairs.

Tip: Throw non-toilet paper items in the trash, even if they seem small enough to flush.

Contact The Bearded Plumber for all Your Plumbing Needs!

Understanding the truth behind these common plumbing myths can save you time, money, and stress. Avoiding mistakes like flushing wipes or relying on chemical drain cleaners can help keep your plumbing system running smoothly for years to come. If you’re facing plumbing issues or need advice on maintaining your system, contact Bearded Plumber for reliable and professional plumbing services.

If you encounter more complex problems or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to The Bearded Plumber for expert help in resolving your plumbing woes.