We’ve heard several plumbing tips and tricks from family, friends, and others. But how much of it is true?
A lot of these so-called tips can end up doing the opposite of what they’re meant to, causing harm to your plumbing system. This can be problematic because we all rely on our plumbing running smoothly to maintain proper hygiene at home.
It’s essential to learn a bit about basic plumbing to steer clear of these myths. We’ve put together a list of the common real estate plumbing myths that are good to know. Let’s dive in!
7 Common Real Estate Plumbing Myths You Should Know
1. Minor Leaks Can Be Ignored
When your plumbing fixtures have a minor leak, it can be tempting to ignore them. However, you would be surprised to know how much a simple leak can add to the water bill.
Most small leaks occur in valves, faucets, and toilets, which are relatively easy to fix. If you notice a leak, get it fixed immediately, no matter how big or small. Regular plumbing system maintenance is recommended to avoid hidden leaks and additional costs.
2. Flushable Wipes Can Be Flushed
“Flushable wipes” sound like they belong in the toilet, don’t they? The catch is, they aren’t actually safe to flush.
Toilet papers are made with materials that will eventually dissolve and disintegrate in the water. However, flushable wipes do not have the same disintegrating properties. This means flushing them down the toilet will get stuck within the pipes, eventually clogging your plumbing system.
Even if you’re lucky enough to get the wipes to flush, they can cause a clog in the main sewer line. To avoid this situation, refrain from flushing wipes down the toilet, regardless of whether they’re flushable.
3. Brick In The Toilet Tank Cuts Water Cost
It might sound odd, but putting a brick in the toilet tank is still thought of as a common money-saving trick. By taking up space, the brick reduces water per flush.
The problem occurs when the toilets do not get the necessary water to flush out properly. If the brick restricts too much water, you may experience difficulties with irregular water flow or improper drainage. This method can also cause issues in the long run, such as damaging the hydraulic system and the overall functioning of the toilet.
If you wish to save water, ensuring no leaks and maintaining the plumbing system regularly is all that is needed.
4. Drain Cleaners Cause No Harm
Agreed drain cleaners can get the job done quickly, but their convenience comes at a cost. Most drain cleaners contain toxic chemicals that threaten your pipes and health.
If used in excess, these harsh chemicals can erode and crack pipes. Additionally, contact with them can harm your eyes, skin, and lungs.
Ever wonder why you shouldn’t mix these strong chemicals with other 'safer’ cleaners? It’s because they could react and lead to harmful chemical reactions. So, for your safety and your drains, it’s better to grab a plunger or call in a pro.
5. What Goes Down, Stays Down
This is another common myth about a real estate plumbing system. Most assume that whatever is flushed down and out of sight is gone forever. While this can be true in most cases, it ultimately depends on what you’re flushing.
However, certain things you flush down the toilet or sink can get stuck in the drain pipes, eventually becoming a significant build-up and resulting in a clog. Another way you can clog your drain pipe is by overestimating what can go in it. Flushing out items more than a regular drain can handle leads to an almost immediate clog.
A telltale sign that your drain pipes have a clog is if the water takes too long to be flushed out. Before matters worsen, contact a licensed plumber to get the blockage fixed.
6. Lemon Peels Freshen Garbage Disposals
An age-old tale that goes around to this day is adding lemon peels to your garbage disposal will keep them odour-free and fresh. However, it’s quite the opposite. Citrus is known to cause damage to the garbage disposal system, especially the blades, and though they temporarily make the kitchen fresh, they come at a cost.
Additionally, citric acid can cause the metal blades of garbage disposal to corrode. An excess build-up of these peels can also lead to a blockage.
If you wish to keep your disposal system clean and fresh, opt for a cleaning solution meant for garbage disposal. When cleaning, disconnect all power sources from the disposal to avoid injuries.
7. Pipes Can Only Freeze When There Is No Heat
A common misconception is that drain pipes can only freeze without a power connection or a working furnace. However, they can freeze rather quickly even if proper heating is available. The pipes hidden deep within the walls, such as basements and attics, usually have the biggest probability of freezing.
When pipes freeze, they can eventually burst, resulting in further water wastage. To avoid this, please pay attention to hidden pipes and insulate them properly during cold climates. Leaving cabinet doors open, especially ones under the sink, can also minimise the chance of pipes freezing.
Real Estate Plumbing Myths - Debunked!
Real estate plumbing often leads to misinformation being spread by people because citizens don’t understand the intricacies of plumbing. However, it is essential to distinguish between what’s true and what’s not.
This will prevent you from making decisions leading to further plumbing problems. We hope this guide helped you gain insight into plumbing and what it entails because every happy home must have a healthy system.
Need a real estate plumber in Sydney? Fixed Today Plumbing is your local real estate plumber, offering fast, flexible, and premium plumbing installation and repairs. So, give us a call today!
