7 Plumbing Myths Debunked

If you’re thinking of throwing lemon peels in garbage disposal drains or using a drain cleaner chemical to unclog pipes, you might want to think again: Some of the most popular home plumbing tips might damage your pipes!

The most common plumbing myths often involve unclogging kitchen drains and sinks. While using a drain cleaner chemical may seem like common sense here, it’s one of the biggest plumbing myths. Though drain cleaner chemicals can definitely dissolve a clog, they also dissolve the surrounding pipe in the process. As a result, unclogging drains with chemical drain cleaners can wear away your pipes long before their time.

Many people also try unclogging their drains using a toilet plunger—another potentially dangerous myth. While a light plunge can safely dislodge small clogs, they’re usually far too powerful to use on kitchen drains and sinks. Remember, the pipe in your bathroom toilet is much bigger and stronger than your sink drains!

The myths don’t stop at clogs, unfortunately: Many people also think that leaky faucets and changing water pressure are normal when they might indicate larger plumbing problems. Though the occasional drip or two is perfectly normal, a constantly dripping or leaking faucet is a problem that should be addressed by an experienced plumber.

What about the other plumbing tips? Does putting lemon peels in garbage disposal drains clean them? Are flushable wipes safe to flush? For sure-fire alternatives to these myths and information on how to choose a plumbing company that can help, check out the infographic below or call Christianson Air Conditioning & Plumbing at 512-246-5400.