For many years there has been a lot of plumbing myths thrown around that claim to help you save money, work or time.

Plumbing is not only a vital part of healthy homes and buildings but also one of the trickiest areas when it comes to maintenance. A lot of the time, the cause of a problem isn’t visible, so you can only guess what it might be. Partly for this reason, there are many unfounded plumbing “remedies” or “myths” out there that could actually cost you more money long term. 

Here, we debunk 5 of the most common plumbing myths to potentially help you avoid major plumbing issues: –

MYTH #1. YOU CAN FLUSH ANYTHING DOWN THE TOILET

FACT: Um No. Toilets are durable plumbing components in the home. They’re designed for a specific purpose and when you start to dispose of certain items that aren’t made to be discarded down the toilet, you’ll eventually run into costly problems.

Disposable No No’s:

Nappies

Wipes

Sanitary Napkins

Paper Towels

Food

Grease

Did you know that 75% of sewer blockages involve flushed wet wipes??

Just remember to always stick to the three P’s when it comes to flushing things down the toilet:

Poo

Pee

Paper

 

MYTH #2. A LEAKY TAP IS NO BIG DEAL

FACT: In addition to hiking up your water bill, leaky taps can also add wear and tear to plumbing fixtures. 

A steady, constant leak can also lead to rust and mould over a period of time, so it’s best to nip this issue as quickly as possible to avoid bigger issues down the track.

 

MYTH #3. IN TANK TOILET CLEANERS ARE GOOD

FACT: In tank toilet cleaners claim to work with every flush to keep your toilet clean and sparkly. While they may look like they are cleaning your toilet, they’re actually causing more issues than you think..

Bleach from these in tank cleaners can cause internal damage to the valves and washers within your cistern. With long term use, your toilet may even start leaking and stop flushing properly.

The best way to keep your toilet clean is by using a toilet cleanser and brush on a regular basis directly in the toilet bowl.

MYTH #4. PLUMBING REQUIRES LITTLE TO NO MAINTENANCE

FACT: While you may in fact go years without any major problems, we highly recommend that you create a regular maintenance schedule for your plumbing and fixtures; such as –

Checking for dripping taps

Checking all flexible braided hose connections

Keeping drain vents and grates clean

Regularly clearing out gutters

 

MYTH #5: PLUMBERS ARE NEEDED AFTER A PROBLEM HAS HAPPENED

FACT: Plumbers should be more seen as a better way to provide preventive maintenance. Unexpected plumbing problems can cause stress, especially if you only have one bathroom or you are facing potential water damage to your home. 

If you’re unsure, book in a plumbing inspection. This will help identify any small issues that may be around your home or building that can be fixed affordably, whilst also gaining better insight into the quality of your plumbing in general. https://www.onthejobplumbing.com.au/book-now/

Believing in myths is a fast track way to expensive plumbing repairs. Not all plumbers are the same, so make sure you get in touch with a reputable company that has great customer service and support.

We’re here to help PH: 1300 171 125

https://www.sydneywatertalk.com.au/wet-wipes

https://www.1millionwomen.com.au/blog/look-whats-lurking-sydneys-sewers/