When it comes to plumbing, myths spread faster than water from a burst pipe. Passed down from neighbors, repeated by family members, and echoed in DIY forums, these so-called “tips” often sound helpful but usually backfire. While they seem harmless, they can quietly chip away at your comfort and savings.
What you don’t know about plumbing could be pushing your energy bills up and your comfort down. Let’s dig into the myths and replace them with facts that keep your home running more smoothly.
Myth 1: A Slow Drain Will Fix Itself
This is one of those beliefs that feels convenient. A drain that’s just a little sluggish might not seem urgent, but it’s usually the start of something worse. Grease, hair, and soap scum are stubborn. They don’t vanish with time—they collect, harden, and turn into a full blockage.
What’s really at stake:
- Water damage from overflow
- Higher repair costs down the line
- Unpleasant odors that linger
Waiting only gives the clog time to grow. Early attention saves you both comfort and money.
Myth 2: Flushable Wipes Are Toilet-Friendly
Despite the label, most “flushable” wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. They often sit in pipes, tangle together, and create major blockages. They can even jam up city sewers.
The tradeoff:
- Frequent plumber visits
- Potential pipe replacements
- Increased water bills due to slow drainage
Switching back to toilet paper isn’t old-fashioned—it’s smarter for your plumbing and wallet.
Myth 3: Lemon Peels Clean the Garbage Disposal
Tossing lemon peels down the disposal seems like a fresh idea. It might make things smell nice, but citrus rinds are tough. Over time, they can dull blades and stick to the inner walls of the disposal.
What’s better instead?
- Use cold water and dish soap
- Run a few ice cubes through the scrub blades
- Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods down the drain
Smell doesn’t always mean clean. Function should always come first.
Myth 4: Running Water Helps Everything Go Down Smoothly
People often run water while using the disposal, thinking it washes everything away. It does help—if you’re disposing of soft bits. But pouring oil, fats, or starch down the drain while running water doesn’t protect your pipes.
Grease cools quickly and solidifies. Running water won’t change that.
The result:
- Buildup inside the pipes
- Clogs that sneak up slowly
- Messy repairs that could’ve been avoided
Cool grease should always go in the trash. It might not be convenient, but it’s far less costly than digging up a pipe.
Myth 5: It’s Normal for Pipes to Knock
That knocking sound from your pipes might seem harmless. It happens often when the water flow is suddenly forced to stop. But it’s a warning sign of “water hammer”—a pressure surge inside your plumbing system.
Ignoring it can lead to:
- Loosened joints
- Leaks behind the walls
- Long-term pipe damage
These aren’t just noises—they’re symptoms. Quiet pipes are a sign of healthy plumbing.
Myth 6: Bleach Tabs Keep Toilets Clean
They seem like a hands-free fix: drop in a tablet and forget it. But bleach is highly corrosive. Sitting in a toilet tank for long periods, it wears away rubber seals and plastic parts.
What this means for you:
- More frequent toilet repairs
- Water leaks you can’t see
- Unexpected water usage
A simple brush and some mild cleaner once a week is easier on your system—and easier on your wallet too.
Myth 7: Plumbing Is Only a Concern When There’s a Leak
Waiting until a leak appears before taking action is like waiting for smoke to check the batteries in your alarm. Most plumbing issues don’t make a dramatic entrance. They creep in silently—through small drips, rising water bills, or subtle drops in pressure.
Taking a closer look can reveal:
- Worn-out hoses
- Small cracks are ready to expand
- Inefficient water flow
Plumbing should be checked like a car—regularly and with care.
Myth 8: All Plungers Work the Same Way
That flat-cup plunger might work fine for a sink, but it’s not built for a toilet. Different drains require different shapes to create the right suction.
Using the wrong tool can waste your time, spread bacteria, or even cause splashing that leads to cleanup.
Keep these two handy:
- Cup plungers for flat surfaces like sinks
- Flange plungers for toilets with curves
The right tools save time, reduce mess, and keep your fixtures safe.
Myth 9: You Can Fix Most Issues With DIY Hacks
Grabbing a wrench and a video tutorial is tempting, especially when trying to save money. But temporary fixes often mask bigger issues. A quick patch on a leak can hold—until it doesn’t. And then the real expense starts.
What DIY often skips:
- Hidden pressure problems
- Pipe alignment issues
- Long-term safety risks
There’s nothing wrong with being hands-on, but knowing when to step back controls things.
Final Thoughts
Myths might feel easy in the moment, but they add up, slowly eroding your budget and comfort at home. Every small clog, strange sound, or silent drip is a reminder that plumbing is built on consistency, not shortcuts.
By recognizing what’s real and letting go of what’s not, you get to stay a step ahead. Your home stays drier, your routines stay uninterrupted, and your money stays in your pocket.
It’s not about overhauling your entire system. It’s about catching the small stuff before it grows. Because small changes now mean fewer surprises later.
The goal at J&S Construction and Services LLC is simple: help you stay informed, confident, and comfortable at home. Because every choice you make today protects your comfort tomorrow.
