It’s April Fool’s Day, but today, we’re taking a different approach. While we understand this is the day all meant in good fun, in the world of plumbing maintenance, separating fact from fiction is crucial to avoid pricey mistakes and keep your home’s infrastructure solid. With tons of plumbing myths out there, it’s tricky to know what’s real. That’s why your Five Star Cincinnati Plumbing team is here to chat about common plumbing myths. Let’s bust these misconceptions together and get to the truth behind them!  

Plumbing Myth 1: Drain Cleaners 

One common myth is that chemical drain cleaners from the store will magically fix your clogged drains in a jiffy – and they may very well do so. But guess what? There are long-term consequences you’d have to deal with. It’s just not worth it. These store-bought cleaners can eat away at your pipes, causing leaks and more blockages down the road. Plus, they’re not great for your health or the environment. 

Instead, going for mechanical methods like plunging or using a drain snake is not just safer but also more effective in the long haul, keeping your plumbing system intact. For bigger, tougher clogs, it’s a good idea to reach out to a professional plumber. And don’t forget, drain screens work wonders in preventing those pesky clogs! 

Plumbing Myth 2: Grease  

Another popular plumbing myth is that pouring hot water down the drain can effectively wash away grease. It might seem logical and easy to do, but in reality, it can make the issue worse. Hot water only temporarily liquefies grease; once it cools, the grease hardens, leading to tough clogs in your pipes. 

To stay away from plumbing myth, just gather up grease in a container and toss it in the trash or recycle it. This easy routine can help you dodge pricey plumbing problems later on, keeping you from dealing with major headaches and unnecessary expenses. 

Plumbing Myth 3: Flushable Wipes 

Many folks think flushable wipes are fine to toss in the toilet because that’s what they’re sold as. But don’t buy into this myth. Even though they’re labeled as flushable, these wipes don’t break down as well as toilet paper and can result in pricey clogs in your plumbing. These so-called flushable wipes can build up in pipes, leading to backups and sewage overflows.  

To steer clear of this plumbing myth and dodge disasters, just remember: stick to flushing only toilet paper and toss all wipes in the trash to prevent plumbing issues. 

Plumbing Myth 4: Feminine Hygiene Products 

Flushing feminine hygiene products down the toilet may seem fine, right? Actually, it’s a common misconception. Let’s break it down. Tampons, pads, and similar items swell up in water, causing serious pipe blockages. So, tossing them in the toilet can really mess up your plumbing and sewer lines. It may not be an issue you see happening right away, but this is one of those plumbing catastrophes that occur over time! 

Counter this plumbing myth by tossing feminine hygiene products in the trash to avoid expensive plumbing fixes and harm to the environment. It might be a hassle, but trust us, you won’t regret looking after your plumbing with some simple care steps. 

Don’t get caught up in these common plumbing myths! Busting these myths is key to keeping your plumbing system healthy and functioning well. Skip the chemical drain cleaners, avoid pouring grease down the drain, dispose of flushable wipes properly, and steer clear of flushing feminine hygiene products. These simple steps can help prevent damage, save you money on repairs, and, let’s face it, spare you major headaches! Remember, for reliable plumbing advice, it’s best to consult a professional plumber. Want more tips on caring for your home and plumbing system? Check out our other blog posts! 

We strive to be a company you can rely on! Call Five Star Cincinnati Plumbing for all your plumbing questions and plumbing needs at (513) 204-9944, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here