There’s no shortage of information in the world today, and while this can be a good thing – it can also cause a lot of myths to be spread around. And when it comes to plumbing, misinformation can end up being pretty darn costly. To help you keep your pipes flowing like they should and prevent expensive repairs, here are some of the biggest plumbing myths debunked.

1. Garbage disposals and toilets can handle anything

While garbage disposals and toilets are durable plumbing components in the home, they are designed for a specific purpose. And when you start flushing and disposing of items in these areas that aren’t made to be discarded there, you’ll have problems.

Some of the items you shouldn’t flush down toilets are sanitary napkins, grease, baby wipes, litter, cotton, and food. For garbage disposals, don’t use lemon peels for freshness (use vinegar instead) and don’t put pasta, stringy veggies, grease, and non-food items.

2. You don’t need to call a plumber until there’s a problem

As long as water is flowing through the pipes and you don’t notice any clogs, many people think that calling a plumber is off the table. But, over time, build up develops in the pipes and can cause a sudden, inconvenient, and expensive problem in the future. Yearly plumbing inspections and cleanings can prevent this from happening, so mark your calendar to ensure you get these appointments in annually!

3. You can hold off fixing a leaky faucet

A little drip coming out of your faucet may not bother you, but trust that it is doing more harm than good. Not only does it cost you money on your water bill (and it’s not very eco-friendly), it can start to cause your plumbing fixtures to deteriorate. Replacing fixtures prematurely is an expense you can avoid if you call a plumber as soon as you notice a leak.

4. All products sold in your local store for plumbing are okay to use

While some plumbing products are okay to grab at the grocery or home improvement store, there are others that can wreak havoc on your pipes and fixtures. Toilet tablets containing bleach that sit in the tank, flushable wipes, and other products may sound like a good idea, but at the end of the day, you’ll be left with a clogged toilet or plumbing components that are gradually being destroyed. Speak with a professional plumber about the products you currently use and get advice on what plumbing items are good for the home.

5. All plumbers have the same skill set

When you bring in a plumber for routine work, a yearly inspection, or an emergency, you may think that it doesn’t matter who you call. The truth is, not all plumbers have the same skill set, training, or are backed by a company that is licensed and insured. Make sure you do your research and involve a reputable plumbing company for all your needs if you want to save money without compromising on the integrity of the work.

Let the experts at SSI be your plumbing solution by calling (703) 968-0606 or filling out the quick contact form online. And don’t forget to check out our plumbing specials!