We're here to bust some myths about your home's plumbing system! Let's go!

We know that the ancient Egyptians created the first form of plumbing. Since then, we’ve learned a lot about plumbing over the years. Piping systems are nothing new, and the plumbing industry has experienced decades of changes and improvements. We’ve learned certain lessons and many are important to share. If you’re a homeowner and want to make sure you’re treating your plumbing system correctly, be sure to read the five myths we list below so you don’t make these mistakes!

1. “The best way to unclog my sink is with a liquid drain cleaner”

Sinks can become backed up with food, hair, and other debris stuck in the piping. Many people use a drain cleaner to help clear clogs, but this is a mistake. Drain cleaners are not safe. They’re made up of harsh chemicals that can linger in your pipes long after using them. This can open up the possibility of other chemical cleaners reacting with it and creating harmful fumes. Liquid drain cleaners put a lot of stress on your plumbing system and over time will cause serious damage.

2. “Placing bleach tablets in my toilet tank is a safe cleaning method”

No, bleach tablets are not the answer. Bleach tablets are not safe and they don’t work. Though it may seem easy, dropping a tablet in the tank of your toilet can become a problem. The bleach tablet can eat away at the rubber parts in your toilet tank. If you must use bleach while cleaning your toilet, keep it to a very small amount and only use it on the inside of the toilet bowl.

3. “All plumbers are created equally”

Not all plumbers have the same experience, education, and training. The best thing to do before hiring a plumber is to do your research. Make sure you’re hiring a licensed plumber. A plumber with experience and up-to-date knowledge of plumbing is key to receiving quality service. Ask important questions to your potential plumbers and get the right answers before making any decisions. Ask around your area for a reputable local plumber and always read online reviews.

4. “Flushable wipes are safe to flush”

Please know that flushable wipes are not safe to flush. Do not flush wipes and do not flush anything other than toilet paper. Your toilet and plumbing system was designed to handle human waste and toilet paper, nothing else. In fact, even too much toilet paper can cause a blockage. So be sure to never flush wipes, paper towels, tissues, feminine products, hair, cotton balls, or bandages.

5. “A brick in the tank of my toilet will me save money”

An old trick to saving water and money is to place a brick in the tank of your toilet. The large brick is supposed to take up more space in the tank thus leaving less room for water in the tank. The theory of this trick is accurate, but it’s not a good idea. A brick can break apart into smaller pieces. Brick is also quite heavy and can cause stress on the tank of your toilet. You wouldn't want your toilet cracking or lacking in functionality.

Your home’s plumbing system is important. You must care for it with caution and there are many products on the market that can damage your piping. If you’re unsure about a plumbing problem you’re experiencing Edwards Plumbing is here to help you! Call today for a free estimate and feel confident with the quality service we put towards caring for your plumbing.