You expect your water to turn on when you need it and often don’t think about it until something goes wrong. A common myth is that if all pieces of your plumbing system are working correctly, the entire system should work smoothly. Misconceptions like this give you a false sense of security that your plumbing is working fine. Falling for common plumbing myths can cause you to neglect problems or avoid actions that can create problems.
By understanding some of the common myths about plumbing you can be better prepared to avoid a disaster and might also save money. Here are a few misconceptions to know about:
Myth! It’s just a small leak so it’s not a big deal.
Truth: A faucet that leaks from the handle or has a little drip is a big deal. The US Environmental Protection Agency estimates that a small leak can waste approximately 10,000 gallons of water annually. That’s money flowing down the drain. The repairs are minor to fix and should be handled in a reasonable time frame. The bigger problem is that by delaying repairs, your faucet will wear out faster. In addition, mold can form in the fixture. Then there is the issue of what would happen if the handle broke – a geyser in your bathroom would probably be a big deal.
Myth! Just flush it down the toilet and it will be gone.
Truth: Unless you want your toilet overflowing after it gets clogged, there are many items that shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet. Only flush human waste and a reasonable amount of toilet paper down the toilet. Don’t use it as a trash receptacle. If the drain clogs and gets worse, your toilet could backup with waste. Or that item you flushed down the toilet could haunt you again if it busts a pipe. If you have garbage to dispose of, you are best to throw it in the trash.
Myth! Hair will not clog a bathtub or shower drain.
Truth: Hair can accumulate in your drains over time and cause the water to drain slower until the drain is eventually clogged. Practice good drain hygiene by using a bathroom hair stopper or trap to catch any debris along with regular drain cleaning. Your plumber can also help you clear your pipes to avoid damage from any debris that has accumulated in them.
Myth! The garbage disposal can handle all your food waste.
Truth: Your disposal is able to handle small pieces of organic food waste that are easily shredded. Many of the common food waste that can damage your disposal are those with hard seeds, husks, thick peels, small grinds, and bones. Read your manual to verify what types of foods can be processed through it and what foods can damage it. You should also be careful not to add too much food at once because it can clog and damage your disposal.
Myth or Truth? The water heater will explode.
Truth: If you are hearing a loud rumbling sound coming from your water heater, it is sediment that has accumulated. The sound comes from sediment boiling at the bottom of the tank. It is making your water heater less energy efficient, but it won’t explode. About twice per year, your water heater should be drained to help it operate efficiently.
Truth: Maintaining your water heater is very important and, although rare, there are certain circumstances that can cause your water heater to explode. The majority of water heater explosions are completely preventable by following a regular routine of maintenance, inspections, and servicing. For example, gas water heaters have a temperature-pressure valve that can malfunction and cause pressure to build up to explosive levels. Valve problems, scale deposits and corrosion in water heaters can lead to safety risks and should be regularly checked.
Myth! In an emergency, any plumber will do.
Truth: While all plumbers may look like they do the same work on paper, the quality of repairs can differ significantly. Our emergency plumbers at High Priority Plumber have the training, experience, and tools needed to handle emergency repairs. In addition, we are always available to take your call and handle your emergency 24/7. Call us at 770.860.8110 in Atlanta to find out how we put you as our priority.