Plumbing myths are common and often misunderstood by homeowners. As a Cheyenne resident, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction to keep your plumbing system in top shape. Here, we’ll debunk the top five Common Plumbing Myths and explain how to maintain your pipes effectively. Forever West Plumbing, with years of experience in plumbing services, is here to help you make informed decisions for your home.

5 Common Plumbing Myths:
1. Toilets Flush The Other Direction in Australia

A common myth many people believe is that toilets in Australia flush in the opposite direction due to the Coriolis Effect, the force that causes cyclones to rotate differently in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. While it’s true that cyclones rotate differently, toilets don’t follow this pattern. The direction your toilet flushes is actually determined by the design of the toilet and the jets inside the bowl—not the planet’s rotation. In reality, toilets in Cheyenne or anywhere else flush in whichever direction the plumbing is set up, and the Coriolis Effect has no impact.

2. Ice Cubes Will Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades

It’s easy to assume that tossing a few ice cubes into your garbage disposal will sharpen its blades, but this is a misconception. Garbage disposals don’t actually have blades. Instead, they have impellers that grind up food waste into small particles. While ice cubes can help clean the disposal and flush out debris, they don’t sharpen anything. So, instead of relying on ice for maintenance, it’s better to perform regular cleaning by running cold water and using a disposal cleaner.

3. A Brick in the Tank of the Toilet Will Save Money

Many believe putting a brick in the water tank of the toilet will reduce water usage and save money on your water bill. However, this is not always a great idea. Over time, the brick can deteriorate and cause damage to your toilet parts. Additionally, putting a brick in the water tank could cause your toilet not to flush properly, leading to potential plumbing issues. It’s safer to install a low-flow toilet, which is designed to use less water without causing issues.

4. Hot Water Melts the Grease to Prevent Clogs

Another popular myth is that hot water can melt grease and prevent clogs. While hot water can indeed melt grease temporarily, once the grease cools down, it solidifies and can build up in your pipes. This can eventually lead to a major clog in your plumbing system. Instead of using hot water, cold water should be used as it helps grease solidify, allowing it to be flushed out without causing damage to your pipes. When dealing with grease, it’s always better to dispose of it properly rather than letting it flow down the drain.

5. ‘Flushable’ Wipes Are Safe for Your Plumbing

Just because something is labeled ‘flushable’ doesn’t mean it’s safe for your plumbing. Baby wipes and other so-called flushable wipes don’t break down the same way toilet paper does. These wipes can get stuck in your pipes and cause major clogs. Over time, they accumulate and may lead to expensive plumbing repairs. It’s best to dispose of these wipes in the trash, not the toilet. Trust me, I’ve seen my fair share of blocked pipes caused by so-called “flushable” products.

FAQs About Plumbing Myths in Cheyenne

1. Is it true that using drain cleaners is safe for my pipes?

While liquid drain cleaners can clear some blockages, they are not the best solution for your plumbing. The chemicals in drain cleaners can eat away at your pipes over time and cause corrosion. Instead, try using a plunger or an auger to clear any sink clogs. If the problem persists, it’s time to call a professional plumber from Pete’s Builders.

2. Can a water heater really explode if it’s making strange sounds?

If you hear a rumbling sound coming from your water heater, it’s likely due to sediment buildup inside the tank. While it may seem alarming, it’s unlikely to cause an explosion. However, neglecting to clean the sediment can cause your water heater to fail prematurely. Regular maintenance can prevent this issue and extend the life of your appliance.

3. Does flushing all the toilets in a skyscraper cause it to collapse?

There’s a myth that flushing all the toilets in a skyscraper at once can bring down the building. In reality, engineers design skyscrapers with robust plumbing systems to handle large volumes of water and prevent any kind of system failure, even in the unlikely event of all toilets being flushed simultaneously. So no need to worry about this happening in Cheyenne’s buildings!

4. How do I protect my water heater from galvanic action?

If your water heater is connected to galvanized pipes, the electrolysis or galvanic action could cause damage to your plumbing system. Installing dielectric unions can help, but adding a dielectric nipple can further reduce the flow of current and prevent galvanic corrosion. If you’re unsure, consult with a professional plumber from Pete’s Builders for the right solution for your home.

5. Can I use a plunger to clear a sink clog after using drain cleaners?

Absolutely not. If you’ve used drain cleaners in your sink, using a plunger can push dangerous chemicals back up and cause burns. Always wait until the chemicals have flushed out or contact a professional plumber for assistance.