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There are some home repairs that need to be taken care of ASAP, and almost always, plumbing is going to be one of them. It’s crazy how impactful plumbing damage, specifically water damage, can be to your property. With all of that said, however, if you want to make sure that you completely avoid any nightmares happening to your home, let alone your plumbing, then you’re going to have to be really cautious of all of this and know what some of the common myths are. 

Believe it or not, there are a lot of myths out there that make homeowners believe they're helping their plumbing and making it better, but in reality, it’s the furthest thing. But what exactly are these? Well, here’s exactly what you need to know!

Chemical Drain Cleaners are Safe and Effective

One of the biggest myths out there is that chemical drain cleaners like Drano are the go-to solution for clogged drains. While these products might offer a quick fix, they can do more harm than good. The harsh chemicals in these cleaners can corrode your pipes over time, leading to leaks and even pipe bursts. 

Instead of reaching for a bottle of chemicals, consider using a plunger or a drain snake, or better yet, call a professional plumber to tackle the issue safely since they’re well experienced in drain cleaning. Sure, that bottle of drain cleaner might be tempting because of the cheap price, but at the end of the day, it’s just not worth it at all!

All Plumbing Fixtures are the Same

Now, here’s the thing: many homeowners believe that all plumbing fixtures are created equal, but this is far from the truth. Now, you have to keep in mind that quality can vary significantly between brands and products. Investing in high-quality fixtures may cost more upfront, but they often last longer and perform better, saving you money and headaches in the long run. So, next time you’re shopping for a new faucet or showerhead, do your research and choose a reputable brand.

A Leaky Faucet is No Big Deal

A leaky faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but it can actually waste a significant amount of water over time and drive up your water bill. This probably surprises homeowners often because it's just so common and usually depicted in shows and movies, too. 

But even a small drip can waste gallons of water each week. But on top of that, the constant dripping can wear down your sink and plumbing fixtures. It’s best to fix leaks as soon as you notice them, whether by tightening a loose part or replacing a worn-out washer. The last thing you need is to deal with a flooded area, even if water damage cleanup can clean up most of the difficulty.

Flushable Wipes are Safe for Toilets

Despite what the packaging might say, flushable wipes are not safe for your plumbing system. Yes, you read that right, and plumbers will tell you the exact same thing, too! These wipes don’t break down as easily as toilet paper, which can lead to clogs in your pipes and even in municipal sewer systems. So, in order to avoid costly repairs and potential damage, it’s best to stick to good old-fashioned toilet paper and dispose of wipes in the trash.

Water Heaters Explode Without Warning

Have you ever watched the show The Sopranos? Well there’s a scene where the main characters water heater explodes, right in their basement causing a massive flood. It’s not just depicted on there, but a lot of shows and movies honestly. But here’s the thing, while many homeowners fear that their water heater might suddenly explode, but this is more myth than reality. 

While water heaters can fail, proper maintenance can help you avoid any dramatic failures. Overall, regularly inspecting your water heater, checking the pressure relief valve, and flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup can keep your water heater running smoothly and safely.

You Can Fix Any Plumbing Issue By DIYing

While there are plenty of minor plumbing issues that a handy homeowner can tackle, some problems are best left to professionals. You seriously can’t repair everything, even if you’re watching tutorials online. So, attempting to fix complex issues like sewer line problems or major leaks without the proper knowledge and tools can lead to more damage and costly repairs. That’s exactly why knowing your limits and calling a plumber when necessary is essential to maintaining a healthy plumbing system.

It’s Normal for a Toilet to Run Occasionally