Busting Myths About Plumbing: What Works and What Does Not

Common Plumbing Myths Debunked

The internet is full of plumbing advice, but not all of it is accurate. Some popular plumbing myths can actually cause more harm than good. Let us separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1: Lemon Peels Clean and Freshen Your Garbage Disposal

The Myth:

Running lemon peels through your garbage disposal cleans and deodorizes it.

The Reality:

While lemon peels smell nice, the citric acid can corrode metal components over time. The peel fibers can also wrap around blades and cause jams. For cleaning, use ice cubes and dish soap instead.

Myth 2: All Plumbers Are the Same

The Myth:

Any plumber can handle any job equally well.

The Reality:

Plumbers have different specializations, experience levels, and qualifications. Licensed master plumbers have extensive training. Always verify licenses, insurance, and reviews.

Myth 3: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Safe and Effective

The Myth:

Liquid drain cleaners are the best way to clear blockages.

The Reality:

Chemical drain cleaners are harsh, damaging pipes (especially PVC and older metal pipes), creating toxic fumes, and often failing to fully clear blockages. They make professional repairs more dangerous. Use mechanical methods instead.

Myth 4: Running Water Helps Grease Go Down the Drain

The Myth:

If you run hot water while pouring grease down the drain, it will flush through without problems.

The Reality:

Grease solidifies as it cools in your pipes, creating stubborn blockages over time. Always dispose of grease in the bin, never down the drain.

Myth 5: Flushable Wipes Are Safe for Toilets

The Myth:

Products labeled flushable are safe to flush.

The Reality:

Flushable wipes do not break down like toilet paper. They cause major blockages in both home plumbing and city sewers. Only flush human waste and toilet paper.

Myth 6: A Dripping Tap Is Just a Minor Annoyance

The Myth:

A slowly dripping tap is not worth fixing.

The Reality:

A tap dripping once per second wastes over 11,000 liters annually. That is money down the drain and unnecessary environmental impact. Fix leaks promptly.

Myth 7: Bricks in Toilet Tanks Save Water

The Myth:

Placing a brick in your toilet tank reduces water use.

The Reality:

Bricks disintegrate, clogging mechanisms and damaging components. Insufficient water prevents proper flushing, leading to multiple flushes and wasting more water. Install a dual-flush system instead.

Myth 8: In-Sink Disposal Units Can Handle Anything

The Myth:

Garbage disposals can grind up any food waste.

The Reality:

Many items damage disposals or cause blockages: fibrous vegetables, eggshells, coffee grounds, pasta, rice, bones, and grease all cause problems. Use disposals only for small soft scraps.

Myth 9: DIY Plumbing Saves Money

The Myth:

Doing your own plumbing is always cheaper than hiring a professional.

The Reality:

Simple tasks like replacing washers are fine for DIY. However, incorrect repairs often create bigger problems costing far more to fix. Complex work requires expertise, specialised tools, and code compliance.

Myth 10: All Leaks Are Obvious

The Myth:

You would know if you had a water leak.

The Reality:

Many leaks are hidden behind walls, under floors, or underground. Look for signs like unexplained water bill increases, damp spots, or mold growth.

What Actually Works

Effective Solutions:

• Plungers for most toilet and sink clogs
• Drain snakes for stubborn blockages
• Baking soda and vinegar for minor drain cleaning
• Regular maintenance prevents major issues
• Professional inspections identify problems early Need reliable plumbing advice? Call 0404 939 121 for expert guidance from licensed Sydney plumbers.