Here at HomeX Plumbing & Rooter, we know how frustrating, dangerous and costly misleading information can be, especially when it comes to your plumbing. Even though people mean well when offering advice, good intentions don’t always equal the correct information.
Staying aware of common plumbing myths and learning basic plumbing facts can help you avoid damaging your pipes and wasting your hard-earned money on preventable repairs. Read on to see if any of your plumbing knowledge has been debunked below!
Myth: It’s Safe To Bathe During A Thunderstorm
All materials generally fall into two categories: insulators and conductors. Insulators like rubber and wax are resistant to electrical currents, while conductors like metal and water promote the flow of electricity.
Since you’re in contact with conductors while you bathe, you run a higher risk of electrocution if lightning strikes. It’s safer to wait until the storm passes before taking a shower or bath.
Myth: Flushable Wipes Are Flushable
Out of sight, out of mind doesn’t quite apply to flushable wipes. Even if the wipes seem to go down when flushed without causing an immediate clog, they can build up over time further down the drain line.
The material isn’t instantly water-soluble, forming a blockage before it can dissolve. This can lead to a toilet clog you’ll have trouble clearing with a plunger. Tossing wipes in the trash instead of the toilet can save you from future plumbing problems.
Myth: Ice Can Sharpen Your Sink Disposal Blades
Many people think putting a handful of ice in their disposal will help sharpen the blades. However, it causes the blades to become dull, impacting your disposal’s ability to grind up food. This isn’t to say you shouldn’t use ice at all, though. Putting ice through your disposal every few months can help clear stuck-on food from the blades.
Myth: Boiling Water Is Good For Drain Clogs
Since chemical cleaners tend to ruin pipes, natural methods are usually the way to go. Most natural methods tell you to start by pouring boiling water down the drain to soften any buildup in your pipes.
What they don’t tell you is that boiling water can also do damage to your pipes. PVC sink pipes can warp and break when exposed to extremely hot water, leading to costly repairs. If you have trouble clearing a tough clog, it’s best to call a professional to avoid damaging your pipes.
Myth: You Can Clean Your Disposal With Lemon Peels
As food residue decays in your drain, it can start to smell. Some homeowners like to put lemon peels down their disposal as a natural cleaning solution. A fresh lemon scent is a pleasant aroma to have in your home, but the citric acid from the lemons will soften the metal blades and cause your disposal to wear out quicker than usual.
Contact Your Anaheim Plumbing Specialists!
If you’ve already debunked one of these myths the hard way, you could probably use some professional plumbing support. Luckily for you, the pros in pink at HomeX Plumbing are ready to solve all kinds of plumbing issues in the Anaheim area! Contact us today to schedule your next repair or explore preventative plumbing maintenance options!
