Happy April Fool’s Day! Even though the exact origins of this day are a mystery, April Fool’s Day is a day that is celebrated worldwide in the name of lighthearted laughs and good humor. No judgment here! Enjoy your day, but stay sharp! Today, at New Albany Plumbing & Drain, we’re taking a unique approach, however. As a local business valuing transparency, we’re utilizing this day to “bust” some common plumbing myths.
1. The Plumbing Myth That Drain Cleaners Are Okay to Use
One popular plumbing myth is that chemical drain cleaners from the store are a quick and easy solution for clogs. While this may be true in the moment, as they look like a convenient choice, the reality is they can actually harm your pipes, causing more harm than good. Store-bought chemical drain cleaners have extremely harsh chemicals that will eat away at that pesky clog, but they will also eat away at your pipes. This will eventually lead to leaks, tougher blockages, and other related issues. Plus, they’re not great for your health, your family’s health, or the environment.
Instead, opt for mechanical methods like plunging or using a drain snake, which are safer and more effective in the long run. Keeping your plumbing system in good shape should always come first. For stubborn clogs, it’s a smart move to call in a professional plumber. Also, using drain screens is an easy way to stop clogs and maintain preventive care.
2. The Plumbing Myth That Running Hot Water to Rinse Grease Is Fine
Another plumbing myth claims that pouring hot water down the drain can clear grease safely. Seems logical, right? But in reality, it can make things worse. Hot water just temporarily liquifies grease, washing it away from your view. After you’re done, the water will cool down and the grease that was washed away, will solidify within your plumbing system. This causes more trouble in the long run and can lead to severe pipe clogs.
To fight this plumbing myth, just collect grease in a container and toss it in the trash or recycle it properly. This simple habit can prevent costly plumbing issues down the line, sparing you from avoidable stress and expenses.
3. The Plumbing Myth That Flushing Flushable Wipes in the Toilet Is Okay
Many think flushable wipes are fine for toilets and the plumbing system because of how they’re labeled – and that makes sense since they are marketed as such! But talk to any licensed plumber, and they’d probably advise against them! Why? Even though they’re labeled as flushable, these wipes don’t actually break down like toilet paper does. So, if you flush them and they end up in your toilet, you’re just asking for plumbing issues like blockages, backups, and overflows. Trust us, it’s best to steer clear of them altogether.
To avoid these potential plumbing problems, you don’t have to forgo the use of wipes of all together. Just remember to flush only toilet paper and toss all types of wipes in the trash!
4. The Plumbing Myth That Flushing Feminine Products In The Toilet Is Okay
While we are on the topic of flushing, let’s address this point, too. Flushing feminine hygiene products down the toilet isn’t exactly a good idea. If you stop to consider how they are designed, it makes sense. Tampons and pads are made to soak up liquid and swell when wet. Generally, most people know that pads and liners are not flushable. Tampons are another story. Keep in mind that this can also be a problem that doesn’t show up until later down the road. However, over time, consistent enforcement of this practice can really cause issues for your system. It’s one of those things that you may be able to just get away with in the moment, but keep doing it, and it’ll come back to haunt you.
Avoid falling for this plumbing myth. Just toss all feminine hygiene products in the trash to sidestep costly repairs and environmental damage. It might be a bit of a hassle, but taking care of your plumbing with these easy steps is totally worth it.
Don’t fall victim to these common plumbing myths. Remember to ditch chemical drain cleaners, put no grease whatsoever in the drain, dispose of flushable wipes correctly, and not flush feminine hygiene products down the toilet. These practices will help you to avoid damage, costly repairs, and, let’s be real, major headaches! Remember, rely on a professional for accurate plumbing advice. For more plumbing care tips, take a look at our other helpful blogs!
We want to be a company you can count on! Call New Albany Plumbing & Drain for all your plumbing questions and plumbing needs at (614) 245-3319, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!