Keeping the plumbing in your home or office running smoothly is important – very important. There are, however, some plumbing myths out there that can confuse even the most careful among us. Acquaint yourself with these myths before you get into trouble with your plumbing, and remember that if you do have a plumbing emergency – which most of us eventually will – a reputable Pompano Beach plumbing company that offers 24-hour service is always there for you.
Myth 1: My Drains Don’t Seem to Be Clogged, so Everything Must Be Okay
This is a tricky one. Just because your drains seem to be running smoothly does not mean you don’t have a plumbing problem. Pipes can become damaged over time and connections can loosen – both of which can lead to leaks that may or may not slow your drains. A leak can lead to significant structural damage and to unhealthy mold and mildew. Signs that are often indicative of a leak in your plumbing include unexplained damp or wet spots on your floors or carpets; a moldy, musty smell in your home; and/or unexpectedly high water bills. Scheduling regular maintenance with an experienced plumbing professional can help you detect and correct those plumbing issues that don’t clog your drains.
Myth 2: Throwing a Few Lemons Down My Garbage Disposal Will Keep It Nice and Clean
While the scent of a lemon rind that’s been run through your garbage disposal can help keep your disposal smelling sweet, it won’t do much in the way of cleaning the disposal itself. To do that, you need to disconnect the disposal from its power source; spray a mild detergent mixed with warm water into the opening, and use a long-handled scrub brush to gently brush the unit clean.
Myth 3: As Long As I’m Running Water, My Garbage Disposal Should Work
While it’s important to run your faucet directly into your garbage disposal as it runs, this does not mean that the running water will flush virtually anything through that disposal. In fact, certain things should never go through your garbage disposal. These include fibrous items like lettuce, celery, and potato and onion skins; thick items like banana peels; sticky things like egg shells; absorbent foods like pasta and rice, which swell with water and can cause major clogs; and grease, fat, or oil of any kind, which can all adhere to your pipes and work as virtual debris magnets. Your garbage disposal is not intended to eat anything you decide to feed it. Proceed with care.
Myth 4: My Home’s Plumbing Doesn’t Require Much in the Way of Maintenance
This is a biggie. Most of us don’t give the plumbing in our home or office much thought – until there’s a problem. Don’t fall into this trap. Like anything else in your home, your plumbing system will eventually show signs of wear and tear. Scheduling regular maintenance with a professional plumber will help you stay on top of any issues that might be brewing below the surface and will save you time and money and cut down on inconvenience in the long run. Plumbing problems are often an “out of sight, out of mind” kind of thing, but a bit of prevention can go a long way toward keeping your plumbing running smoothly for years to come.
Myth 5: Using Hand Soap Is a Great Way to Keep My Fixtures Clean
Plumbing fixtures come in many different varieties, but hand soap is not the way to go when it comes to cleaning them. Some fixtures are more delicate than others, so carefully read the instructions if you’ve gone with something fancy. For instance, brass fixtures require specific cleaning products and procedures. If your fixtures are more workaday, it’s still a good idea to use a gentle, non abrasive cleaner to keep them clean and shiny.
Plumbing Giving You Problems?
It’s probably safe to say that few of us give as much thought to our home’s plumbing as perhaps we should. By knowing the major plumbing myths out there and avoiding them, you’ll help stave off problems. And if you do run into trouble with your plumbing,
the dedicated professionals at Erica's Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Restoration in Pompano Beach are here for you – 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Our reputable plumbing services are preferred by many homeowners and insurance companies in the Pompano Beach area, so please contact our team.
