Top Costly Plumbing Myths Debunked

Are you a homeowner who's interested in learning about maintaining your plumbing system? If so, it's important that you learn how to do so effectively without damaging your system or pipes. Below are five costly plumbing myths debunked.

Myth 1: Lemons Clean Your Garbage Disposal

While running a lemon rind through your garbage disposal may make your drain smell better, it won't actually clean it. To disinfect your garbage disposal, use a cleaning solution that includes a mild soap and warm water.

Before you attempt to use it make sure your garbage disposal is disconnected from its power source. Spray the cleaning solution into the garbage disposal, give it a few minutes to work, and then use a cleaning brush to scrub the disposal itself.

Myth 2: Running Water While Using The Garbage Disposal Helps The Waste Travel Smoothly

Many homeowners believe that they can put just about anything down their garbage disposals as long as they run water. The truth, however, is that some things do not belong in a garbage disposal no matter how much water you run. Hard or thick food items, such as banana peels and eggshells, can damage your disposal, which may require expensive repairs or drain cleaning. If you're considering putting thick foods down your disposal, break them up thoroughly and mix with water beforehand.

Myth 3: As Long As Things Keep Going Down My Drain, It Isn't Getting Clogged

Even when your garbage disposal is operating, it still may be at risk of a serious clog. One of the early warning signs of an impending problem is a slow moving disposal, or waste fragments that remain on the discharge pipe.

If you notice either of these signs when using your garbage disposal, it's most likely developing a clog. Stop using it right away until you have the clog removed.

Myth 4: You Can Clean Plumbing Fixtures With Hand Soap

Depending on the type of plumbing fixtures, hand soap may actually damage the surface. Brass plumbing fixtures, for example, should be cleaned with gentle solutions such as sliced lemons and baking soda. Toilet bowls, however, need to be cleaned with an effective disinfectant to kill germs and prevent infection.

Myth 5: Plumbing Fixtures Require Little To No Maintenance

This is one of the most dangerous home plumbing myths of all, because homeowners who believe it may run into serious problems later on. Pipes may be obstructed by clogs, wayward tree roots, or shifting home foundations. Homeowners should also inspect their sewer cleanouts for obstructions. All of these issues may lead to expensive plumbing repairs, such as a sewer line or pipe replacement. The fixtures inside the home such as sinks, faucets, and tubs also need regular maintenance to avoid serious drain clogs

Contact Horizon Services

With over 20 years of service experience, we have helped thousands of homeowners in the Delaware, Southeastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and Northeastern Maryland areas with their plumbing needs. Our team of plumbing professionals consists of some of the most experienced and most qualified plumbers working today in the Delaware Valley. These are top-notch plumbing technicians who can accurately diagnose and quickly fix any and all plumbing problems. Plumbing emergencies are our specialty!

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