Whether you are a new homeowner or have enjoyed your current residence for years, one of your key maintenance tasks for a functional household concerns the plumbing system. Too many myths surround these important systems, affecting their operation and longevity. Here, review common misconceptions to keep your home’s plumbing in excellent condition and sidestep costly repairs.

What Plumbing Myths Should I Stop Believing Right Now?

1. Your Garbage Disposal Can Handle All Food Types

Garbage disposal impellers dull when they are subject to the wrong food waste or become tangled. The appliance can also clog without mindful disposal. Among the worst food waste offenders include eggshells, bones, coffee grounds, oil, fat, grease, pasta, whole grains, nuts, and onion skins. Pasta and whole grains expand in your pipes to create clogs, while bones cause the disposal blades to work overtime and possibly break.

2. Leaky Pipes Are Part of Owning a House

Even one leaking pipe wastes water, encourages related damage, such as rust, rot, and mold growth, and prevents the liquid from flowing efficiently. Leaking water also stains plumbing fixtures and can cause pipes to freeze because it isn’t draining properly. Unless the leak is an easy repair with a wrench, call your local plumbing contractor to fix the pipe before the problem becomes serious.

3. Chemical Drain Cleaners Negate Professional Drain Cleaning

Liquid drain cleaners may promise quick and easy clog removal, but they rarely work unless the clog is minor. Only professional drain cleaning removes severe clogs deep within your system. Chemical cleaners corrode pipes, irritate or burn the skin upon contact, and poison the environment. Use drain covers to keep your pipes clear and schedule drain cleaning services for any recurring clog.

4. Preventive Maintenance Isn’t Worth the Money

Annual plumbing system maintenance checks can seem like unnecessary expenses, but they actually save money over time. Professional inspections identify small issues before they become major and cost thousands in water damage and pipe repairs. They also promote system longevity because it will function at an optimal level. Schedule annual inspections with your local plumbers to maintain your investment. 

If it’s time for a maintenance check or you have any faucet, pipe, drain, or toilet issues, contact Pelner-Williams Plumbing & Heating. The licensed technicians have served Central and South-Central Wisconsin since 2011, providing timely services for residential and commercial clients. Call (715) 424-7800 today to schedule service or learn more about the company online. Get additional tips on Facebook.