10 Most Common Plumbing Myths Debunked

Plumbing is one of those household systems most of us take for granted − until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, there’s no shortage of myths and misinformation about how plumbing works and how to fix it.

These myths can lead to costly mistakes, from damaging your pipes to inflating your water bills. Whether it’s the idea that flushable wipes are actually safe or that small leaks are harmless, it’s time to separate fact from fiction.

In this blog, we’re debunking 10 of the most common plumbing myths, helping you protect your home, save money and avoid unnecessary headaches. Let’s get started.

1. A Leaking Tap Isn’t a Big Deal

It’s just a tiny drip … drip … drip, right? Many homeowners think a leaking tap is harmless and put off fixing it, but the reality is quite different. That steady drip can waste a surprisingly large amount of water over time − up to 20,000 litres per year from a single tap. Not only does this increase your water bill, but it’s also harmful to the environment.

Beyond wasting water, a leaking tap often signals an underlying problem, like worn-out washers or valve seats. Left unchecked, these small issues can worsen, leading to more expensive repairs.

Fixing a leaking tap is usually quick and inexpensive, especially if caught early. So, the next time you hear that drip-drip-drip, remember it’s more than just an annoyance − it’s a problem worth addressing.

2. Flushable Wipes are Safe for Your Toilet

Despite the “flushable” label, most wipes are not safe for your toilet or plumbing system. Here’s why:

• They don’t break down like toilet paper: Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to dissolve quickly in water, flushable wipes stay intact for much longer, increasing the risk of clogs.
• They contribute to blockages: Wipes can get caught in your pipes or sewer lines, combining with grease and debris to form stubborn blockages.
• They harm wastewater systems: On a larger scale, wipes create massive “fatbergs” in municipal sewer systems, costing time and money to remove.

To protect your plumbing, always toss wipes − even “flushable” ones − in the trash. For a truly flush-safe option, stick to toilet paper. Your pipes (and plumber) will thank you.

3. Hot Grease Can Be Safely Poured Down the Drain

It’s tempting to pour hot grease down the drain, thinking it’s liquid and will flow away without issues. Unfortunately, this common myth can lead to serious plumbing problems.

While grease is liquid when hot, it quickly cools and solidifies in your pipes, creating stubborn blockages over time. These drain clogs don’t just slow down your drainage − they can also attract debris, leading to complete pipe blockages.

Even if you run hot water or soap while pouring grease, the problem doesn’t go away. The grease may travel further down the pipes but will eventually harden.

Instead, pour hot grease into a container, let it cool, and dispose of it in the trash. Taking this simple step can save you from costly plumbing repairs and keep your pipes running smoothly.

4. All Plumbing Fixtures are Universally Compatible

Thinking all plumbing fixtures are universally compatible is a common mistake. While it might seem like you can easily swap out one fixture for another, the reality is more complicated.

Plumbing systems have varying pipe sizes, threading types and material requirements, all of which need to match the new fixture.

Using an incompatible fixture can lead to leaks, improper water flow, or even damage to your plumbing system. For example, installing a fixture with the wrong water pressure rating can cause strain on your pipes.

Additionally, fixtures often require specific fittings and adapters that aren’t always interchangeable.

To avoid costly mistakes, always double-check compatibility before purchasing or installing fixtures. When in doubt, consult a professional plumber to ensure a seamless and leak-free installation.

5. Drain Cleaners are the Best Solution for Clogs

While chemical drain cleaners might seem like a quick fix for clogs, they’re not always the best − or safest − option. Here’s why:

• Harsh chemicals damage pipes: Most drain cleaners contain strong acids or alkalis that can corrode pipes, especially if used frequently or on older plumbing systems.
• They don’t solve the root problem: Drain cleaners may clear some blockages, but they often don’t address the underlying issue, like grease build up or tree root intrusion.
• They can be harmful to health and the environment: Chemical fumes can be dangerous to breathe, and the residue can harm local waterways when it’s flushed out.

For stubborn clogs, use a plunger or drain snake, or call a professional plumber to ensure a safe and thorough solution.

6. Plumbing Work Is Easy DIY

Tackling plumbing repairs yourself might seem cost-effective, but it’s often more complicated than it looks. Here’s why DIY plumbing can lead to problems:

• Complex systems require expertise: Plumbing involves a network of pipes, valves, and fixtures. A small mistake can lead to leaks, water damage, or worse.
• Improper repairs can be costly: Attempting to fix an issue without the right tools or knowledge might make the problem worse, leading to more expensive professional repairs later.
• Code compliance is essential: Many plumbing jobs, such as installing water heaters or pipes, must meet local building codes. DIY work could violate these regulations.

For peace of mind and long-term savings, it’s best to leave plumbing repairs to licensed professionals who know the ins and outs of the trade.

7. Ice Cubes Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades

It’s a popular belief that dropping ice cubes into your garbage disposal sharpens its blades. While ice cubes can help clean the disposal by knocking off debris, they don’t actually sharpen anything.

That’s because most garbage disposals don’t even have sharp blades − they use blunt impellers to grind food into small particles.

Using ice cubes can be a great maintenance trick to freshen up the disposal and clear build up, but it won’t improve its cutting ability. For better performance, focus on regular cleaning and avoid putting hard or fibrous items down the disposal to prevent clogs and wear.

8. Water Heaters Can Explode Without Warning

The idea that water heaters can explode without any warning sounds scary, but it’s largely a myth. Here’s the truth:

• Safety mechanisms are in place: Modern water heaters come equipped with safety features like temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valves to prevent dangerous pressure build up.
• Warning signs are usually present: Strange noises, leaks, or fluctuations in water temperature often signal an issue long before a failure occurs. Regular inspections can catch these early.
• Maintenance is key: A poorly maintained water heater, especially one with sediment build up, is more prone to malfunction. Annual flushing and valve checks keep it in safe working order.

While explosions are rare, staying proactive with maintenance ensures your hot water system operates safely and efficiently, giving you peace of mind.

9. A Brick in the Toilet Tank Saves Water

The idea of placing a brick in your toilet tank to save water might seem clever, but it’s actually a bad idea. While the brick displaces water, reducing the amount used per flush, it can also cause problems.

Over time, bricks can break down in the tank, releasing debris that damages the toilet’s inner workings.

Additionally, reducing the water level too much may result in incomplete flushing, forcing you to flush multiple times − defeating the purpose of saving water. Instead, consider upgrading to a low-flow or dual-flush cistern, which is designed to conserve water without compromising performance.

10. Small Pipes are Better for Water Pressure

It’s a common misconception that smaller pipes boost water pressure, but this isn’t how plumbing works. Water pressure is determined by your water supply system, not the size of your pipes.

In fact, using pipes that are too small can cause problems like restricted water flow and increased friction, which reduces overall efficiency.

Properly sized pipes are crucial for maintaining balanced pressure throughout your home. For example, larger pipes are needed for main water lines to distribute water effectively, while smaller pipes can work for individual fixtures.

To ensure optimal performance, always use pipes that match your system’s design requirements.

Don’t Believe the Myths

Plumbing myths can lead to costly mistakes, unnecessary repairs, and wasted resources if left unchallenged. From believing flushable wipes are harmless to thinking DIY plumbing is simple, it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction when it comes to your home’s plumbing system.

By debunking these common myths, you can make smarter choices that protect your pipes, conserve water, and save money in the long run.

If you’re ever in doubt about a plumbing issue, don’t rely on hearsay − reach out to a professional plumber for advice. Proper care and expert guidance ensure your plumbing stays in top shape for years to come.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.