It’s April Fool’s Day today, and although we get that today is all about lighthearted fun and laughter, we’re taking a different approach! We’re all about being upfront and helpful. In the world of plumbing, knowing fact from fiction is key to avoiding costly errors and preserving your home’s infrastructure. With so many myths out there, it’s tough to separate truth from false information. That’s why your pals at Gahanna Plumbing & Drain wanted to chat about some common plumbing myths, instead. Join us as we bust these misconceptions and shed light on the truth! 

Plumbing Myth 1 – “Store-Bought Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Good” 

One common misconception is the belief that store-bought chemical drain cleaners are a fast and efficient fix for clogged drains. However, the truth paints a different picture. Although store-bought chemical drain cleaners may work momentarily, they actually cause more harm than good in the long run. This is because the chemical drain cleaners purchased in stores can cause pipe corrosion over time, resulting in leaks and more blockages. Moreover, they come with risks to your health and the environment.  

Instead, you should opt for mechanical methods like plunging or using a drain snake. It’s not only safer but also more effective in the long run, keeping your plumbing system in good shape. For bigger, tougher clogs, it’s a good idea to reach out to a professional plumber. And hey, don’t forget, drain screens work wonders in preventing those pesky clogs! 

Plumbing Myth 2 – “Using Hot Water to Wash Grease Down the Drain Helps

Another plumbing myth that often comes up is using hot water to wash away grease down the drain. It might seem like a good idea to pour hot water to dissolve grease, but it can actually make things worse. Hot water only temporarily liquefies the grease, but when it cools down, the grease hardens, which will cause one tough blockage in your pipes. 

In order to combat this plumbing myth, it’s a good idea to gather grease in a container and toss it in the trash or recycle it. This simple habit can help avoid pricey plumbing problems later on, keeping both your heart and wallet happy! 

Plumbing Myth 3 – “Flushable Wipes are Fine to Use” 

Many folks tend to think flushable wipes are fine for the toilet because that’s how they’re advertised. But whatever you do, don’t buy into that myth! Despite what the label says, flushable wipes don’t break down as smoothly as toilet paper and, as a result, can cause significant blockages in your plumbing. These so-called flushable wipes can build up in pipes, leading to backups and sewage overflows.  

So, how can you steer clear of this plumbing myth and prevent disasters? To prevent potential plumbing issues, it’s a good idea to flush only toilet paper and if you use wipes, simply make sure they are placed in the trash, instead. 

Plumbing Myth 4 – “Flushing Feminine Hygiene Products Is Not a Big Deal” 

Despite what many think, it’s not a good idea to flush feminine hygiene products down the toilet. Let’s “bust” this myth, too! Tampons, pads, and similar items are meant to absorb liquid and expand in water, which can cause serious blockages in pipes. So, flushing any of these down the toilet can lead to extreme clogs in your plumbing. Although it may not be one of those issues that surfaces right away, you may reap the consequences down the road if you choose to enforce this myth. 

Counter this plumbing myth by tossing feminine hygiene products in the trash to avoid pricey repairs and environmental harm. It might feel a bit inconvenient, but we assure you, you won’t regret looking after your plumbing with these easy steps. 

Don’t be fooled and fall for these common plumbing myths! It’s crucial to dispel these myths to keep your plumbing healthy and functional. Avoid chemical drain cleaners, don’t pour grease down the drain, dispose of flushable wipes properly, and never flush feminine hygiene products. These simple steps can help you avoid damage, costly repairs, and, let’s face it, major headaches! Remember, it’s best to seek professional advice from a licensed plumber for your plumbing needs. Check out our blogs to learn more about caring for your plumbing system! 

We strive to be a company you can trust! Call Gahanna Plumbing & Drain for all your plumbing questions and plumbing needs at (614) 245-2256, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!