In your quest to take the absolute best care of your home plumbing system, you might have come across a few tips you can put to good use on your own. Know that just as there is a lot of great information out there, there are also more than a few myths that can do more harm than good to your system. Before you risk your system as well as your finances, learn how to separate plumbing-saving fact from money-wasting fiction.
Small Leaks Are Nothing to Worry About
Before you put off taking care of that nagging drip in the bathroom or kitchen faucet, know that even a minor leak has the potential to lead to thousands of gallons of wastewater in a single year. This means you’ll want to address leaks, no matter how inconsequential, as soon as you notice them.
Lemons Are a Great Way to Clean Your Garbage Disposal
While it’s undoubtedly true that lemons are a great way to provide your garbage disposal with a great smell, the citric acid they contain won’t do your metal pipes any favors, as any professional who specializes in plumbing repairs can tell you. Because citric acid breaks down metal, you’re better off putting ice cubes and a few sprinkles of salt down your drain instead to get your blades nice and clean.
Water Heaters Can’t Explode
It doesn’t happen very often, but it’s true that water heaters can explode. This is often triggered by a malfunctioning TPR valve, which controls the pressure and temperature. To keep from finding out the hard way just how much destruction an exploding water heater can cause, you’ll want to have your unit regularly inspected. What’s more is your water heater should be installed by a professional to lessen the chances of problems later on.
It’s Fine to Use Chemical Drain Cleaners on Clogs
While chemicals can certainly take care of clogs stopping up your drain, the main issue is they go on to continue eating away at your pipes. What’s more is an accidental spill can result in damage to surfaces around your home and possibly cause injuries if they come into contact with your skin. You’re better off using vinegar and baking soda to take care of clogs. If that doesn’t work, either use a drain snake or call a professional.
Animals Can’t Crawl Up Your Pipes
There are instances of rats, cockroaches, snakes and more animals and pests crawling up pipes into toilet bowls, but most of those instances take place outside the U.S. That being said, not flushing food down your drains and toilets is the best way to keep pests out of your pipes.
You Can Handle Most Plumbing Jobs on Your Own
While it’s true it’s easier than ever for homeowners to tackle their own plumbing problems, something to remember is the fact that professional plumbers have knowledge and tools you just can’t come by online or download through an app. There’s a big difference between replacing a faucet and thawing out frozen pipes. Do yourself a favor and save a lot of money and headache by recognizing your limitations and knowing when it’s time to reach out to the experts.
Water Can’t Make Its Way Through a Drain
Even if your toilet has a clog, there’s still a chance water can work its way through it, meaning that just because your toilet is flushing doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem. If your plumbing system acts up in any way that’s out of the ordinary, such as water bubbling up in the toilet whenever you turn on the faucet, you might have a problem that needs to be looked into.
Always know what’s solid information and what’s questionable when it comes to your home’s plumbing. Recognizing what’s real and what’s fake can go a long way in saving money and your plumbing system.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
