10 Plumber Myths That Can Cost You Money | Buckhead, GA
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Homeownership is a great source of pride and joy. However, home plumbing is one of the least anticipated bits of homeownership. There are always unanticipated plumbing problems, but when handled properly by a skilled plumber, you and your loved ones will lead comfortable lives. With many so-called plumbing ‘experts,’ there is a lot of conflicting and misleading information in the market.
In this piece, we debunk ten plumbing myths around Buckhead, GA, that are costing you money.
Flushable wipes easily go down the flush
Flushable wipes are one of the main reasons households experience drainage blockages around the country. If it doesn’t look flushable, it probably isn’t. To ensure whether or not they are flushable, check for details on their dissolution extent. This is also applicable for feminine paper towels, hygiene products, and other non-biodegradable products that seem flushable. Plumbers recommend that other than toilet paper, nothing else should be flushed.
Ice cubes sharpen garbage disposal blades
The idea that garbage disposals have blades is a relatively widespread misconception that has birthed this myth. Rather than blades, garbage disposals have teeth like grooves that do indeed get cleaned using ice cubes. However, this has nothing to do with sharpening the grooves. Other items such as eggshells also help clean these impellers.
Hot water helps flush down grease
Grease and fats in your drainage system are about as harmful as they are in your arteries. No form of grease whatsoever should be allowed to go down your drain because it sticks to your pipes. Not even hot water can get rid of it. When the hot water you pour down the drain in a bid to drain the grease cools down, it cools over the oil. This hardens the grease leaving a thick coat lining your pipes that will eventually cause a problem. Always wipe down the grease from your pans and throw it in the trash.
A noisy water heater is bound to blow up
Rumbling noises coming from your water heater can be terrifying. Most people hear these scary sounds and are terrified that the water heater is about to explode. Fortunately, there is no need to panic, and there is a rational explanation for all the noise. As the heat produced by the water heater tries to make its way through multiple sediment layers, it makes a rumbling noise. These layers result from years of use and usually collect at the bottom of the tank. As the air bubbles come out, they make an audible noise. You can rest assured that you will not experience any explosions, and the noise is simply an audible annoyance. If you have any concerns talk to a plumber.
Bleaching tablets are safe for your toilet
Bleaching agents that sit for long periods in the tank or bowl are unsafe and a detriment. It is acceptable to use bleach in your toilet bowl, but it needs to be washed out within 10 minutes. Plumbers share that over time, the bleach degrades and erodes the working parts of your toilet. The damage may go as far as corroding your entire toilet. Use bleach sparingly and carefully to save yourself money.
Most plumbing work is a Do-it-yourself task
Thanks to endless DIY hacks online, most people tend to believe most of a plumber’s work is simply a do-it-yourself job. Unfortunately, unclogging the toilet or fixing a leaky faucet isn’t as straightforward as microwaving a meal. Often, a DIY solution turns a minor problem into a more significant issue. Plumbing systems are more complex than most people realize. Licensed plumbers are trained and experienced in dealing with full-range problems and any safety concerns. Whenever you face a plumbing issue, get in touch with Peach Plumbing plumbers.
A leak isn’t cause for concern
A leaky faucet may not seem serious, but it is one of the biggest plumbing myths out there. A dripping faucet may not flood your bathroom or kitchen, but it may drain your savings. Did you know that, on average, a household loses over 10,000 gallons of water due to water leaks yearly? The Environment Protection Agency advises homeowners to fix their faulty faucets in order to save up to 10% on their water bills. Some common types of leaks include worn toilet flappers, dripping faucets and other leaky valves.
If everything is going down the drain, there is no problem
Blockages do not suddenly occur in a plumbing system. It takes time for inappropriate foods, wet wipes, and cat litter to build up and cause problems. Your drainage system could be a host of problems waiting to happen. Foods such as rice and pasta will bloat in your pipes and block other waste from passing through. If you do not use the right amount of water to rinse down waste, it will build up and clog the pipes. Dispose of food in the trash and use hir strainers over the shower drain to keep your pipes clog-free.
Plumbing fixtures require little or no maintenance
This is one of the most dangerous plumbing myths. It is essential to take care of your plumbing fittings and fixtures. Buckhead, GA homeowners, need to periodically take time to inspect their faucets, sink, drains, toilets and pipes to ensure they are running properly. When these issues aren’t addressed, you will likely accumulate a hefty plumbing bill trying to replace a pipe or sewer line.
Lemon peels help freshen your disposal
Lemon peels will give off a wonderful smell. However, they will also likely clog your drain. Most garbage disposals aren’t powerful enough to cut through things such as lemon peels. In the long run, the acid produced from lemons will corrode the metal in your waste disposal. Instead of using lemon peels, use ice cubes to clean your garbage disposal and make sure if you use lemon peels you pull the remains out after grinding them. A plumber can answer any questions you have.
At Peach Plumbing & Drain, we are Buckhead, GA’s leading plumbing service. With over 72 years of combined experience, our plumbers are knowledgeable and experienced at handling a wide variety of plumbing issues. We run a 24/7 plumbing service and offer on-time emergency services. Get in touch with us today for more information about our services.