5 Common Plumbing Myths You Should Stop Believing
When it comes to home maintenance, plumbing is one of those things people tend to overlook—until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths floating around that can actually do more harm than good. At Bear Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how these misconceptions lead to bigger (and costlier) problems. Today, we’re setting the record straight by debunking five of the most common plumbing myths.
1. "Lemons Clean Your Garbage Disposal"
We get it—lemons smell fresh and seem like a great natural cleaner. But while running lemon peels through your garbage disposal can make it smell better temporarily, it won’t actually clean the disposal. In fact, the acidity from lemons can corrode the metal components over time. Instead, use ice cubes and a little dish soap to help clean your disposal without damaging it.
2. "A Brick in the Toilet Tank Saves Water"
This is an old trick that some people still swear by, but it’s not doing your toilet any favors. The idea is that a brick in the tank displaces water, reducing how much is used per flush. However, bricks can deteriorate over time, sending debris into the tank that can clog or damage internal components. Instead, consider installing a low-flow toilet or an adjustable flapper to control water usage properly.
3. "Dripping Faucets Aren’t a Big Deal"
That slow, occasional drip from your faucet might seem harmless, but even a small leak can waste gallons of water over time. Not only does this drive up your water bill, but it also puts unnecessary strain on your plumbing system. A dripping faucet is usually a sign of a worn-out washer or seal, and fixing it sooner rather than later can save you money and prevent bigger issues down the road.
4. "All Flushable Wipes Are Safe for Plumbing"
Despite being labeled “flushable,” most wipes don’t break down as easily as toilet paper. They can accumulate in pipes, leading to stubborn clogs or even sewer backups. If you want to avoid costly plumbing repairs, it’s best to toss the Dude Wipes™ 😎 in the trash instead of flushing them.
5. "You Can Pour Grease Down the Drain If You Run Hot Water"
Many people believe that as long as they run hot water, grease will slide right through their pipes. The problem? Once the grease cools, it solidifies and sticks to the walls of your pipes, eventually leading to blockages. A better solution is to let grease cool in a container and throw it in the trash instead.
Trust the Experts at Bear Plumbing
Avoiding these common plumbing myths can save you a lot of headaches, but sometimes, plumbing issues are unavoidable. Whether you need repairs, installations, or routine maintenance, Bear Plumbing is here to help. Contact us today for reliable service you can trust!
