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When it comes to plumbing, misinformation spreads fast, leading homeowners to believe in myths that can do more harm than good. From the idea that ice cubes sharpen garbage disposal “blades” to the misconception that hot water prevents grease clogs, many of these so-called “plumbing hacks” simply aren’t true. In this blog, we’re setting the record straight on some of the most common plumbing myths so you can avoid costly mistakes and keep your home’s plumbing in top shape.
It’s hard to imagine ice could sharpen the “blades” of a garbage disposal but somehow that has gotten perpetuated. Perhaps that’s because people have recommended using ice cubes to clean a disposal. Garbage disposals don’t have blades, but instead have two teeth-like features called impellers that grind any solids into a liquid as the unit spins.
Some allege that putting a brick in the toilet tank can save water, but doing that can keep your toilet from flushing correctly.
Sure, hot water melts the grease and washes it down the drain. But once the liquefied grease hits the pipes, it cools, solidifies and eventually builds up. The grease is a magnet for food bits, lint and hair, eventually clogging the pipe. And those clogs are so far away you can’t reach them with a household snake.
Your water heater is most likely not going to explode. More likely it needs some cleaning. A rumbling or gurgling sound is typically caused by an excessive build up in sediment inside the tank. The sound comes from steam bubbles rising through the sediment. Failure to address the issue could lead to premature failure of your water heater.
Nope, the toilets do not flush in the other direction south of the equator. The idea kind of stems from something known as the Coriolis Effect, which is why cyclones rotate. Cyclones do rotate in opposite directions between the Northern and Southern hemispheres but there is not enough water in toilets to produce the effect. Plus, the direction a toilet drains is determined by the jets.
Believing in plumbing myths can lead to unnecessary repairs, wasted water, and costly damage. Understanding how your plumbing truly works is the key to keeping it running efficiently. If you ever have a plumbing issue—or if you’re not sure whether a popular tip is fact or fiction—Terry’s Plumbing is here to help! Our experienced team can diagnose problems, provide expert repairs, and ensure your plumbing is in the best possible shape. Contact us today for reliable, professional service you can trust!
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