Plumbing plays a major role in the modern home, but it’s also a complex system which takes expertise to maintain. With that kind of setup, it’s no wonder that some myths have cropped up around plumbing, drains, and pipes. To avoid unnecessary repairs, learn the truth to these common misconceptions.

Plumbing Myths Debunked

1. Below the Equator, Water Drains the Other Way

The Coriolis effect is due to the earth’s rotation and causes storms above the equator to spin counterclockwise while those south go clockwise. Common perceptions hold that this also applies to your toilet — but actually, the direction is determined by the toilet’s design, not the rotation of the earth.

2. A Plunger Fixes Any Clogged Drain

While a plunger is a useful tool for shifting small clogs, it isn’t all-powerful. It only applies a limited amount of pressure to whatever is stuck. If you have a very stubborn clog, you may need a plumber to snake the drain and remove whatever is blocking the flow.

3. Lots of Products Are Flushable

Your toilet can successfully flush a wide range of objects, but those items don’t vanish when they hit the sewer. Even if they’re marketed as flushable, some absorbent products, like cat litter, will expand in moisture. In addition, wet wipes don’t dissolve like toilet paper does and can get tangled with other materials, causing major clogs.

4. Clean Your Garbage Disposal with Ice and Citrus

The folk remedy for a foul-smelling disposal is a lemon or orange peel, but in fact, this material can get stuck in your disposal blades. Instead, pour in a small amount of vinegar to bust the odor. Ice doesn’t sharpen the disposal blades as is sometimes claimed, but it can clean them if the disposal is strong enough to handle it.

5. A Leaky Faucet Isn’t a Big Deal

One drop of water doesn’t affect your monthly bill — but if a faucet is left steadily dripping, the costs add up. If your faucet leaks just one drop of water every minute, that’s over 30 gallons in a year, and faster drips will waste even more. For this reason, it is cost effective to have a plumber repair a dripping faucet.

As you make decisions about your plumbing, make sure you’re not falling prey to any of these myths. The truth about your pipes can help you avoid stubborn clogs, limit wear on your appliances, and save on your water bill.

 

If you have questions or concerns regarding your plumbing system, seek out a professional. Fast Rooter Plumbing serves all of Oahu, HI, with effective and modern plumbing solutions. Whether you have a leak, a clog, or any other pipe or drainage problem, their knowledgeable technicians and cutting-edge equipment will have your pipes flowing in no time. To arrange a visit, call (808) 734-4938 or get in touch online.