You’ve heard a few plumbing “tips” passed around by friends or the internet over the years. Unfortunately, not all advice is good advice — especially when it comes to your home’s plumbing.
Read on for some common plumbing myths that just don’t hold water. Learn what you should do instead and when to call for our plumbing services in Greenfield, Indiana.
Myth 1: Running Water Lets You Put Anything Down the Garbage Disposal
This is one of the most common homeowner plumbing beliefs and, unfortunately, one of the most damaging plumbing myths. Many property owners have paid the price for assuming that running water facilitates putting just about anything down the disposal, from grease to bones and fibrous veggies like celery.
Plumbing fact vs. fiction: Running water moves scraps along, but it can’t magically break down tough or greasy materials!
Even in water, bones can damage blades, and grease can solidify and clog pipes. Stick to only small, soft food scraps!
Myth 2: Using Flushable Wipes Is Safe for Your Toilet
Don’t rely on a marketing label. So-called “flushable” wipes cause major backups for homeowners and city sewer systems across Indiana. Older plumbing or septic systems can’t handle these wipes, and neither can newer systems.
Plumbing reality check: Wipes don’t disintegrate like toilet paper.
Of all the debunked plumbing myths out there, plumbers in Greenfield and beyond agree that flushable wipes land near the top. Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Anything else belongs in the trash!
Myth 3: Seeing a Leaky Faucet Is No Big Deal
It might seem like a few harmless drips, but over time, small leaks add up.
Greenfield homeowners take note: A faucet dripping just once per second will waste over 3,000 gallons of water annually. That’s a lot of wasted water (and money).
Leaks also indicate pressure problems or failing seals. These repair issues need a plumber’s attention before they get worse!
Myth 4: Pouring Boiling Water Down the Drain Prevents Clogs
You can see how this common plumbing misconception makes sense. In theory, couldn’t you just melt away the gunk? It’s true that boiling water may help somewhat in metal pipes, but in sections with PVC piping, scalding heat will warp and soften the pipes and seals!
A better plumbing option: Use an enzymatic drain cleaner or a drain snake.
And always dispose of grease in the trash, not the drain!
Myth 5: Deploying Chemical Drain Cleaners Is Safe and Effective
Walk through any hardware store in Greenfield, and you’ll find shelves full of drain cleaners promising quick results. Are they safe? Before you answer that, consider that the products contain harsh chemicals, which corrode pipes and harm septic systems.
Drain-cleaning tip: Reach for enzyme-based cleaners or call our plumber to assess the real cause of recurring clogs.
Chemical drain cleaners can be hazardous to handle and bad for the environment!
Myth 6: Putting a Brick in the Toilet Tank Saves Water
This one dates back decades. Surprisingly, these brick plumbing myths are still in circulation – and still wrong. A brick might reduce the water per flush, but it also risks interfering with the flushing mechanism.
A better approach: Install a low-flow or dual-flush toilet. Many Greenfield homeowners are upgrading to these water-saving models and seeing lower water bills.
If the brick crumbles in the toilet, you’ll face clogs in sewer lines and potential backups!
Myth 7: Working Water Heaters Don’t Need Maintenance
Your water heater might seem like a “set-it-and-forget-it” appliance, but sediment in the tank will steadily reduce efficiency and shorten the unit’s lifespan.
Water heater tip: Have your plumber flush the tank and inspect the anode rod yearly.
Maintenance prevents leaks and prolongs your water heater’s life – often by years!
Myth 8: All Plumbers Are the Same — Just Pick the Cheapest in Greenfield, Indiana
Costs matter, but choosing the cheapest service you can find in town will often cost you more in the long run.
Common plumbing myth: “It’s all the same job — why pay more?”
The truth is that quality matters in plumbing work. Licensed and experienced plumbers like Star Heating & Cooling can provide peace of mind and great warranties!