7 Common Plumbing Myths Every Homeowner Should Stop Believing

When it comes to plumbing, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. Homeowners often believe quick fixes, old wives’ tales, or DIY tricks that can actually damage their plumbing systems.

At Generational Homes LTD, we’ve seen it all—pipes ruined by "miracle fixes," drains blocked by improper use, and costly repairs caused by misinformation. In this blog, we’ll bust 7 common plumbing myths and share expert tips to keep your home’s plumbing in top condition.

1. Myth: Lemons Clean Your Garbage Disposal

‍Lemons smell nice, but they don’t clean your disposal.

The Truth:
Throwing lemon peels into your garbage disposal might make it smell fresh temporarily, but it doesn’t clean it. In fact, the citric acid can corrode metal components over time.

What to Do Instead:

• Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean your disposal naturally.
• Rinse it with cold water and run ice cubes through to remove buildup.

Pro Tip: Avoid disposing of fibrous foods (like celery) and oils, which can clog the system.

2. Myth: It’s Safe to Flush “Flushable” Wipes

‍“Flushable” wipes aren’t as flushable as they claim.

The Truth:
Despite their name, "flushable" wipes do not break down like toilet paper. They often cause blockages in your plumbing system and municipal sewers.

What to Do Instead:

• Only flush toilet paper and human waste.
• Dispose of wipes, tissues, and other products in a bin.

Why It Matters:
Blocked pipes from wipes can cause sewer backups and expensive plumbing repairs.

3. Myth: A Slow-Draining Sink Will Fix Itself

‍Ignoring a slow drain can lead to major clogs.

The Truth:
A slow-draining sink is usually the result of a buildup of debris, grease, or soap scum. Ignoring it can allow the problem to worsen over time, leading to complete blockages.

What to Do Instead:

• Use a plunger or drain snake to clear the clog.
• Schedule professional drain cleaning for persistent issues.

Tip: Avoid using chemical cleaners, as they can damage your pipes.

4. Myth: All Plumbing Issues Are DIY-Friendly

‍Some problems require professional expertise.

The Truth:
While minor issues like using a plunger are DIY-friendly, complex plumbing problems require professional tools and knowledge. Attempting DIY repairs on leaks, burst pipes, or water heater issues can lead to bigger problems.

What to Do Instead:

• Call a professional plumber for complex repairs, inspections, or installations.
• Know your limits when it comes to plumbing fixes.

Why It Matters:
DIY mistakes can lead to water damage, mold growth, and higher repair costs.

5. Myth: Hot Water Breaks Down Grease

‍Hot water doesn’t make grease disappear—it makes it worse.

The Truth:
Pouring hot water down your kitchen sink might liquefy grease temporarily, but as the water cools, the grease solidifies further down the pipes, creating a clog.

What to Do Instead:

• Never pour grease, oil, or fat down the sink.
• Dispose of grease in a sealed container or compost bin.

Pro Tip: Run cold water when using your garbage disposal to keep food waste solid and prevent it from sticking to pipes.

6. Myth: A Leaky Tap Is Nothing to Worry About

‍A dripping tap wastes water and money.

The Truth:
A leaky tap may seem harmless, but it wastes significant amounts of water over time and increases your water bill. It can also indicate worn parts or deeper plumbing issues.

What to Do Instead:

• Fix leaky taps promptly to save water and money.
• If the issue persists, contact a plumber to inspect for hidden problems.

Why It Matters:
A single dripping faucet can waste thousands of liters of water annually!

7. Myth: Low Water Pressure Is Normal in Older Homes

‍Low pressure is often a sign of bigger problems.

The Truth:
Low water pressure isn’t something you should just "live with." It often indicates a leak, pipe corrosion, or a problem with your main water supply.

What to Do Instead:

• Check for visible leaks or blocked aerators.
• Schedule a professional inspection to identify the cause.

Pro Tip: Replacing outdated pipes can dramatically improve water pressure in older London homes.

Conclusion

Plumbing myths might seem harmless, but following the wrong advice can lead to costly mistakes and bigger problems down the line. By understanding the truth and staying proactive, you can protect your plumbing system and save money in the long run.

Need expert plumbing advice? Generational Homes LTD offers professional plumbing maintenance, repairs, and inspections across London. Contact us today to keep your plumbing in perfect condition!

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