Everyone wants to make their lives a little easier. Having to deal with plumbing issues can be a frustrating task for homeowners. So, if there are “tips and tricks” to make life simpler and your plumbing concerns disappear, then what’s the harm? Unfortunately, some of your favourite plumbing “tips and tricks” can do more damage to your plumbing system and is costing you more money than you realise.
To help bust a few myths and save you a penny or two, we’re taking a look at a few common plumbing myths that could be doing more harm than good to your budget.
Bleach
Bleach is often the go-to product for people looking to remove unsightly stains, dirt and other particles in their bathrooms. The common myth is that leaving bleach in your toilet bowl overnight will do the trick, but this could not be further from the truth. In fact, doing this does more damage than good, corroding your toilet bowl and pipes and costing you more money in the long run. If you intend to use bleach to clean your toilet, do not leave it for longer than 10 minutes before washing your toilet bowl. This plumbing myth could cost you a pretty penny as you would eventually need to replace your toilet and pipes due to possible corrosion.
Flushable Wipes
The public consciousness around the environment has grown leaps and bounds, giving birth to flushable wipes and other biodegradable products. However, flushing products such as wet wipes, baby wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products down your toilet is a big no-no, even if the package claims it is “flushable.” Always use a dustbin to get rid of these items to avoid blockages and save your future self money. The truth is, if it’s not toilet paper, don’t flush it.
You Can Fix It Yourself
DIY projects are on the rise, which includes homeowners deleting their local plumber’s number in favour of tackling a pesky blocked drain themselves. It can be a great way to save money but may cost you a lot more when disaster strikes. It might make sense to fix certain plumbing issues yourself, but you need to remember that a plumber has the necessary knowledge and experience to handle both simple and complex plumbing tasks. While fixing a blocked drain may not always require the expertise of your local plumber, anything more intricate, such as leaking pipes or a collapsed drain needs the skills of a professional.
Drain Cleaner Helps Unblock Drains
Drain cleaners are often marketed as the solution for your blocked drain, but this could do more long-term damage to your plumbing system. While drain cleaner is a great way to provide you with temporary relief, these products are made with extremely strong chemicals that could end up damaging your plumbing system. A natural and effective alternative to help you clear a small clog is to pour bicarbonate of soda into the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar.
You Can Flush Grease and Oil Down The Drain With Hot Water
Throwing oil and grease down the drain should never be an option, even when accompanied by hot water. The common myth is that oil and grease will simply melt away when flushed down the drain with hot water. However, the truth is that when the water cools down, the oil and fat will solidify within your pipes. This will cause food particles to get trapped, forcing you to contend with a fatty, blocked mess. You can avoid this by disposing of grease and oil by using a trash can once it has cooled off.
Putting a Brick in the Toilet Take Saves Water
With the increase in the cost of living, homeowners are looking for novel ways to save money. One idea that has been doing the rounds for decades is putting a brick in your toilet tank to help save water (and costs). While the idea has some credibility, there are risks involved. Your toilet is equipped to handle a specific amount of water per flush, and altering this could affect your toilet’s water flow and lead to flushing issues. Additionally, using less water runs the risk of getting waste matter or particles stuck in your pipes, leading to unnecessary plumbing issues down the line.
The Takeaway
Dispelling these common myths about plumbing will not only help you save money but also ensure the longevity and functionality of your plumbing system. By helping you separate fact from fiction, we hope that it will enable you to say goodbye to those costly plumbing myths and embrace a more efficient, cost-effective and trouble-free plumbing system.
At Clearpath Drainage, we are equipped to handle plumbing issues that range from clogs to drain relining and everything in between. Our experienced team is always ready to lend a helping hand - 24/7. Speak to our experts today to find out how we can help you!