From what natural remedies will keep away sewage smells to when to invest in repairs, many misconceptions confuse homeowners about how to care for plumbing systems. According to the professionals at Chugach Sewer and Drain in Anchorage, AK, believing the hype can cause irreversible equipment damage and the need for costly replacements. To extend the life of your system, below Anchorage's premier plumbers share the truth behind four popular plumbing myths.

4 Plumbing Misconceptions to Keep on Your Radar 

1. Toilet Tablets Prevent Foul Smells & Won’t Damage the Fixtures

To keep foul smells from lingering in bathrooms, many people use toilet tablets. Although the tablets can keep rooms smelling fresh, the products also contain bleach, which can cause serious damage to the plumbing system. If tablets are left to dissolve in the toilet, the chemicals will gradually eat away at the materials. To keep the fixtures intact, use air fresheners in bathrooms. Opening the windows a bit will also let in fresh air and improve ventilation.  

2. It’s Best to Use Plungers to Unclog Sinks

Although plungers are often used to unclog toilets, it’s best to keep them away from double sinks. A plunger can force the blockage into the other sink. If you’ve used chemical-based drain cleaning products, the pressure could also force the liquid into the air, which could be dangerous. Try using natural unblockers, such as boiling water or baking soda and vinegar, to dissolve the clog. If that doesn’t work, call a plumber. They have drain snakes and hydro jetting tools to clear pipes and drain lines without causing damage. 

3. Use Lemon Peels to Curb Sink Smells

Even when you clean the kitchen sink after doing dishes, microscopic food particles can linger in the drain. To prevent foul smells, many people place lemon peels in the garbage disposal. Although the peels will fill the sink with a pleasant citrus smell, the rinds could also get stuck in the garbage disposal and clog your plumbing. To keep odors away, and prevent the need for repairs, pour a baking soda and vinegar solution down the drain instead.

4. Leaky Faucets Are Annoying But Not Serious

Because there isn’t the threat of flooding, many people don’t take leaky faucets as seriously as they do burst pipes and other plumbing problems. The slow drips don’t only cause a spike in water consumption and costs. Continuing to use faucets with damaged washers or other problems will only aggravate underlying issues. To avoid replacing the fixtures, it’s best to address leaks as soon as they arise. 

Calling the plumbers at Chugach Sewer and Drain for professional installations, preventive maintenance, and high-quality repairs is the best way to boost the efficiency and quality of your plumbing system. They will also fill you in on common causes of clogs to prevent future problems. To schedule a service appointment in the Anchorage area, call (907) 929-5072. Visit the company online to discover the many ways they will care for your sewer and drain lines.