5 Common Plumbing Myths Debunked

It’s no secret that many products listed as safe for your household plumbing can actually be hazardous to you and damaging to your pipes when used improperly, but it doesn’t stop the spread of myths and dishonest advertising. Here are five of the most common plumbing myths debunked:

• Flushable Wipes Are Flushable

In a recent ruling by the Full Court of the Federal Court, ‘flushable’ Kleenex wipes will be allowed to continue labelling their products as flushable. This doesn’t mean that it’s good for your pipes or the municipal sewer system, however.

So-called flushable wipes are biodegradable, but the problem is that it just takes so long for them to break down. Not only does it take far longer for them to break down but they have also been a major contributor to ‘fatbergs’ found in municipal waste systems such as the recent 42-tonne fatberg found north of Melbourne. Toss them in a rubbish bin instead.

• Liquid Drain Cleaning Products are Safe

Often marketed as an ideal solution to any old sink or toilet clog, harsh liquid cleaning products can certainly get the job done, but at what cost? The chemicals contained in these products are very strong and can cause splashback when used, which exposes you to chemical burns. Moreover, these should only be used as a last resort solution to clogs.

Instead, use a plunger to remove clogs and only use liquid drain cleaners on rare occasions. We also service blocked drains, roof guttering, gas fitter, backflow prevention in Melbourne. Get in touch with our experts to know more. 

• Blocking the Toilet Tank Can Limit Water Consumption

A myth perhaps as old as toilets themselves, placing a brick or other voluminous object within the toilet cistern will limit the amount of water filling up the tank, thereby cutting down on your water consumption.

What actually happens is that the brick or object can obstruct the cistern plunger assembly, resulting in multiple flushes being necessary to adequately flush the bowl. This can indeed lead to increased water consumption.

• A Slight Faucet Leak is Nothing to Worry About

Just a few drip, drip, drips of the faucet isn’t cause for immediate alarm, but it certainly needs to be looked at sooner rather than later. Your monthly water bill won’t be significantly affected by a single drip, but over time, those drips can really add up to hefty amounts.

A small leak can often be resolved with a simple little DIY project of cleaning or tightening the P-trap, but if allowed to persist, a plumber should be called in to have a look at it.

• Kitty Litter is Safe to Pour Down the Drain

Many major cat litter manufacturers label their products as flushable. It’s true that they are biodegradable, but the problem (as with wet wipes) is that it just takes so long for this to occur. What often happens is that the kitty litter causes obstructions and blockages that can damage your pipes and lead to costly repairs. Toss your used kitty litter in the rubbish bin and take it to the kerb instead.

Murphy’s Plumbing

When it comes to having your household plumbing professionally inspected or repaired, don’t buy into the hype of these so-called ‘safe’ and ‘water-saving’ tricks but instead contact a professional at Murphy’s Plumbing to get the job done right.