When it comes to household upkeep, plumbing is perhaps the most misunderstood aspect. From long-standing myths that have been shared over generations to so-called fixes thrown about on forums, there are misconceptions in this essential component of your home's plumbing system. The outcome is disarray that may cost you, waste water, and even pose a risk to your health. An experienced plumber in Ellicott City, MD, usually deals with the consequences of these persistent myths, and though they'd love to assist, most of them wish homeowners would learn the truth first. What follows is setting the record straight on five of the most prevalent plumbing myths, directly from the experts who handle them day in and day out.

1. Lemons Clean Your Garbage Disposal

The notion that putting a lemon in your garbage disposal will get it clean may smell good, but it's not the case. Lemons temporarily cover up odors with their citrus oils, but they don't do much for residue buildup within the unit. Food bits and grease stick to the grinding chamber and blades over time, which lemons can't effectively loosen. In addition, the acidity found in citrus fruits will ultimately rust metal components, reducing the lifespan of your disposal. They suggest a baking soda and vinegar cleaning solution, to which hot water is added to really get things freshened up.

2. A Slow Drain Isn't a Big Deal

Homeowners often overlook a slow-draining sink or bath, thinking it is just a temporary nuisance that will resolve itself. Though a clogged drain is usually the first indication of a clog developing deep in your plumbing system. Whatever the culprit, such as hair, grease, or minerals, the issue will continue to get worse with time if not dealt with. Taking your time may result in full clogs or even pipe damage, necessitating much longer repairs. Experts recommend tackling slow drains right away using safe-clearing techniques before it becomes a larger and costlier problem.

3. Flowing Water during Garbage Disposal Use Ensures Everything Goes Down

It's popularly thought that if the water runs, anything can be safely chopped up and flushed down the disposal. Unfortunately, not so. Some items, such as grease, fibrous vegetables, and pasta, can still cause clogs with running water. These materials expand, wind around blades, or solidify in pipes, creating odious backups. They advise being picky about what is fed into the disposal and treating it as a assistant rather than a garbage can.

4. Flushable Wipes Are Safe for Toilets

Even with what the box says, the majority of flushable wipes don't dissolve the way toilet paper does. These wipes are constructed of long-lasting fibers that may take weeks or months to break down, which can lead to serious issues in sewer lines. They cause great clogs over time and can even harm septic systems or wastewater treatment systems. Experts continually discover these wipes as the center of clogs that need extensive clearing. To avoid plumbing catastrophes, it's preferable to just throw away all wipes in the trash, rather than flushing them.

5. You Can Opt Not to Fix Small Leaks That Aren't Damaging

That creaky tap or tiny leak under the sink may not be a priority, but it's more damaging than many folks imagine. Even small leaks waste hundreds of gallons of water over time, costing you money and putting stress on your plumbing system. They can also cause mold growth behind walls, structural water damage, and pipe and joint corrosion. What begins as an initial nuisance generally devolves into a big repair project if neglected. Emergency plumbers in Baltimore, MD, emphasize the need to treat all leaks immediately to prevent unnecessary expense and hassle. 

Sweeping plumbing myths under the rug may appear harmless until the effects begin to manifest clogs, leaks, corrosion, and surprise bills. Professionals deal with the outcomes of these misconceptions daily and know that prevention is always less expensive than repair. Taking the time to understand how your home’s plumbing truly works can help extend the life of your system and save money in the long run. Whether you’re managing routine maintenance or facing a plumbing emergency, trusting reliable information over household myths is the best course of action. The first time you overhear a plumbing suggestion that seems too good to be true, step back and check it with a certified professional.

Don’t let outdated plumbing myths cost you money or peace of mind. Schedule a professional plumbing inspection from Supreme Service Today at (410) 788-1114 to keep your home running smoothly and efficiently, because the truth will save you every time.

FAQs

1. Should I use chemical drain cleaners for blockages?

Chemical drain cleaners might provide a temporary solution, but more times than not, they cause more problems than they solve. The harsh chemicals can damage your pipes long-term and won't always get rid of the clog. Mechanical solutions or seeking professional help are safer and better.

2. Is it safe to pour grease down the drain if I run hot water over it?

No, running grease down the drain even with hot water can cause buildup that solidifies upon cooling and results in severe clogs. It's safer to dispose of grease in a closed container in the trash.